Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

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Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews

journal homepage: www.elsevier.com/locate/rser

Heat transfer augmentation using twisted tape inserts: A review

Varun a, M.O. Garg b, Himanshu Nautiyal c,n, Sourabh Khurana d, M.K. Shukla b
a
Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, HP 177005, India
b
CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum, Dehradun, Uttarakhand 248001, India
c
Department of Mechanical Engineering, THDC Institute of Hydropower Engineering & Technology, Tehri, Uttarakhand 249124, India
d
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Gurukul Vidyapeeth, Banur, Punjab 140601, India

art ic l e i nf o a b s t r a c t

Article history: Heat transfer enhancement is an important matter of concern for energy conservation and also beneficial
Received 20 February 2015 from economic point of view. The use of passive devices like twisted tapes, roughness elements, wires
Received in revised form inserts etc. are effective methods of heat transfer augmentation. Many research studies on different types
17 February 2016
of twisted tapes geometries to increase heat transfer rate have been carried out. Also, several correlations
Accepted 26 April 2016
were developed to determine heat transfer and friction factor for twisted tape inserts. In the present
study, a review on work done in the area of heat transfer augmentation using twisted tapes has been
Keywords: carried out. Previous experimental and numerical studies on various types of twisted tapes (based on the
Heat transfer literature survey) were discussed. These studies reveal that the future research in the area of twisted
Nusselt number
tapes will bring more development in the heat exchanger systems. The optimum shape for twisted tapes
Friction factor
can also be developed based on maximisation of heat transfer and minimisation of friction factor
Twisted tapes
Inserts regarding fluid used in the system.
& 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Contents

1. Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 193
2. Heat transfer enhancement using twisted tapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
3. Experimental studies on twisted tapes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 195
4. Studies of twisted tapes for refrigeration and solar applications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 218
5. Numerical Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 219
6. Studies with nanofluids. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
7. Discussions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 222
8. Conclusion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223
References . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 223

1. Introduction from economic point of view whereas reduction of temperature

driving force leads to increase second law efficiency and mini-
Efficient heat transfer system is one of the important require- misation of entropy generation or minimum energy destruction. In
ments in energy conservation [1]. The enhancement of heat addition to this, high heat transfer rate is beneficial due to the fact
transfer leads to augmentation of high heat flux. Apart from this, that heat exchanger can be operated at low velocity and gives
enhancement in heat transfer rate also leads to several advantages considerably higher heat transfer coefficient. Consequently, low
like reduction of heat exchanger size and temperature driving operating pressure drop is achieved and operating cost is con-
siderably reduced. In order to improve the efficiency of heat
force etc. The reduced size of heat exchanger is quite important
exchangers, it is very important to improve thermal contact and
decrease the pumping power. These benefits associated with heat
n
Corresponding author. transfer enhancement forces to explore different techniques/
E-mail address: h2nautiyal@gmail.com (H. Nautiyal). methods to improve thermal performance of heat exchangers.

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2016.04.051
1364-0321/& 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
194 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Nomenclature
D Tube diameter
f Friction factor
e Wire diameter
H Pitch
Dh Hydraulic diameter of the duct
c Non-dimensional twisted tape centre clearance ¼ C/D
C Twisted tape centre clearance
Nu Nusselt Number
Reax Reynolds number based on axial velocity
Ra Rayleigh number
Gz Graetz number ¼m cp/kL
P Wetted perimeter
Sw Swirl parameter
Pr Prandtl Number
Re Reynolds Number
S Spacer length
Heat exchangers are commonly used in almost all areas of
industrial activities. The concept of heat transfer enhancement is
quite important and useful in power, process, refrigeration, air
conditioning, automotive industries etc. In addition to this, heat
transfer enhancement techniques are also becoming an important
matter of interest in electronics cooling, solar heat collectors,
micro chemical processing compact heat exchanger design etc. [2].
As the time progress, the matter of heat transfer enhancement has
become more vital in all industrial applications. Generally, heat
transfer enhancement techniques may be classified into three
main classes i.e., active, passive and compound methods (Fig. 1). In
active method, external power is used for heat transfer enhance-
ment. It seems an easy method in several applications however it
is quite complex from design point of view. That is why it is of
limited use due to external power requirements. Apart from active
methods, there is no involvement of external power supply in
passive methods of heat transfer enhancement. Passive methods
utilise energy within the system which leads to increase fluid
pressure drop [3]. The use of special surface geometry gives high
thermal performance as compared to plain surface. Twisted tapes,
wire coils, dimples, ribs, fins, micro fins etc. are different passive
devices which are used to enhance heat transfer rate. Also, tube
with longitudinal inserts is also an effective passive method of
heat transfer enhancement [4]. Passive techniques are associated
with the use of modifications in surfaces and geometries in a flow
channel with the help of inserts. Earlier, it was very difficult to
work with complex geometries due to their fabrication constraints
but with the advancement in manufacturing technology it is now
quite possible to apply new geometries in heat transfer enhance-
ment techniques. Compound heat transfer method is a hybrid
technique which involves the use of both active and passive
methods. The method is quite complex and have limited applica-
tions. Bergles [5] has presented a review on different types of
developed convective heat transfer enhancement techniques.
Different types of effective heat transfer techniques for various
heat transfer modes were summarised. Also compound heat
transfer enhancement techniques were discussed which involves
simultaneous use of several techniques to enhance heat transfer
rate and considered them as fourth generation heat transfer
technology.
The use of twisted tape inserts is one of the important passive
methods of heat transfer enhancement. Twisted tapes are gen-
erally the metallic strips which are twisted in some specific shape
and dimensions and inserted across the flow. They are also
y Twist ratio of twisted tape (H/D)
Y Twist ratio of twisted tape (H/D)
h Heat transfer coefficient
Bo Boiling Number (q/g λ)
q Heat Flux
g Acceleration due to gravity
Greek symbols
m Dynamic viscosity
mb Dynamic viscosity at bulk fluid temperature
mw Dynamic viscosity at duct wall temperature
η Thermal performance factor
θ Corrugation angle
λ Latent heat
ϕ Volume concentration of nanoparticles (%)
considered as swirl flow devices and act as turbulators used to
impart swirl flow which leads to the increase in heat transfer
coefficient. Pitch and twist ratio are the important parameters
used to study the performance of twisted tapes. Pitch of a twisted
tape is the length between two points on a plane, parallel to the
axis of the tape whereas twist ratio of a twisted tape is the ratio of
pitch to inside diameter of the tube. Several experimental and
numerical studies have been carried out by various scientists and
researchers on heat transfer augmentation using twisted tapes.
Some reviews have been also reported on twisted tapes however it
is still need to summarise all previous works and latest techniques
and modification in geometries required to increase the perfor-
mance of twisted tapes. In the present paper an attempt has been
carried out to review various analytical, experimental and
numerical studies done on twisted tapes. Almost all previous
works carried out on different types of twisted tape geometries for
heat transfer enhancement in all applications; are included in this
paper. Also studies carried out using twisted tapes with nanofluids
are included in the review.
2. Heat transfer enhancement using twisted tapes
Heat transfer augmentation is always an important matter of
concern since the enhancement of heat transfer rate leads to
increase the performance of system which is quite important in
various heat transfer applications. Twisted tapes are well known
heat transfer enhancement devices and several correlations of
heat transfer and pressure drop have been developed for different
types of twisted tapes. The enhancement of heat transfer is
obtained by developing swirl flow of the tube side fluid, which
gives high velocities near boundary and fluid mixing and conse-
quently high heat transfer coefficient. In heat transfer systems
equipped with twisted tapes, the heat transfer and pressure drop
Heat Transfer
Enhancment
Active Passive Combined
Methods Methods Methods
Fig. 1. Methods of heat transfer enhancement.
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
characteristics are governed by twist ratio of the twisted tapes.
Also, small clearances between twisted tape and tube boundary
are important factor while selecting the width of the twisted
tapes. Clearance between twisted tape and tube boundary should
be acceptable because greater clearances can produce bypass flow
which lead to performance drop.
Use of twisted tapes and other inserts causes flow blockage,
flow portioning and induction of secondary flow. Free flow area is
reduced due to flow blockage and pressure drop and viscous
effects are considerably reduced. In addition to this, flow velocity
also increases and in many cases secondary flow is induced. This
secondary flow produces swirl and gives effective mixing of fluid
flow which improves temperature gradient and thus heat transfer
coefficient [3].
Kumar and Murugesan [6] presented a review on the studies on
heat transfer augmentation using different twisted tapes. The
study concluded that the performance of twist tapes is more
effective in laminar flow. Since, there is pressure drop associated
with heat transfer enhancement in case of turbulent flow. The
twisted tapes with modified geometry give more heat transfer rate
in laminar as well as turbulent flow with reasonable friction factor.
Patil and Babu [7] carried out a study on heat transfer aug-
mentation in a circular tube and square duct using twisted tape
and screw tape inserts. The study revealed that use of twisted
tapes and screw tapes is an economical solution for heat transfer
enhancement. The passive techniques which are used to increase
the heat transfer were found advantageous as compared to active
techniques. The study also found that increase of heat transfer in
square duct is higher as compared to circular duct due to high
surface to volume ratio of square duct.
Sarma et al. [8] described a new method to determine heat
transfer coefficient in a tube fitted with twisted tape inserts. The
method was based on modification of wall shear and temperature
gradients through friction coefficient correlation which leads to
enhancement of heat transfer through the tube wall. The predic-
tions developed from the present theory were compared with
some previous developed correlations for twisted tapes. Finally
the theoretical results were presented in the form of correlation
listed in Table 1.
Sarma et al. [9] provided generalised correlations for convective
heat transfer and friction coefficients for a tube equipped with
twisted tapes for a wide range of Prandtl and Reynolds number.
The study discussed about a phenomenon that monoatomic
transition from laminar to turbulent regime might be occurred due
to presence of tapes in the flow. A combined solution from a
theoretical approach was discussed for the range of Reynolds
number 200–105 and twist ratio 2–10. Theoretical predictions for
convective heat transfer coefficients were also discussed for all
range of Reynolds number. These theoretical predictions were
based on the fact that there is absence of transition and clearly
separating laminar and turbulent regimes. A good agreement was
also found between the previous correlations and theoretical
predictions. Generalised correlations for Nusselt number and
friction factor with deviation less than 712% were introduced.
3. Experimental studies on twisted tapes
A lot of experimental studies on heat transfer augmentation
using twisted tapes have been carried out by various researchers.
Agarwal and Rao [10] carried out an experimental study to
investigate friction and heat transfer characteristics for heating
and cooling of Servotherm oil (medium grade) under uniform wall
temperature with twisted tapes (made up of stainless steel and
having twist ratio 2.41–4.84) inserts. The experiments were per-
formed in a two double pipe heat exchangers (one for heating and
195
other is for cooling) in series. New correlations were introduced to
predict isothermal friction factor and Nusselt number for uniform
wall temperature (both in heating and cooling) of viscous liquids
when twisted tapes of twist ratio less than or equal to 5 are used.
The results showed an increase in isothermal friction factor which
was 3.13–9.71 times the values of plain tubes whereas the increase
in Nusselt number at constant flow rate and constant pumping
power were found to be 2.28–5.35 and 1.21–3.70 respectively
times the plain tube values. The correlation was developed to
predict isothermal friction factor for (Re/y) ¼ 9-1000. Also, the
correlations to predict Nusselt number for heating and cooling of
Servotherm are listed in Table 1.
Al-Fahed and Chakroun [11] carried out an experimental
investigation to study the effect of tube-tape clearance on heat
transfer characteristics for fully developed turbulent flow through
a horizontal isothermal tube. Fifteen different twisted tapes were
used in the experiments. Three different twist ratios 3.6, 5.4 and
7.1 were selected with five different widths of 10.8 mm, 11.4 mm,
12.0 mm, 12.6 mm and 13.2 mm. The results showed that the
enhancement of heat transfer rate increases with decrease in tube-
tape clearance. Also, for twist ratio 3.6 and tape width 10.8 mm,
heat transfer enhancement was nearly equal to tight fit tape
(13.2 mm width) of same twist ratio. With twisted tape of twist
ratio 3.6, almost 17% difference in heat transfer enhancement was
obtained from different widths and this difference in heat transfer
enhancement for twisted tapes of twist ratio 5.4 and 7.1 was 9%
and 5% respectively. The study concluded that small twist ratio and
tight fit tape are advisable to achieve high heat transfer
enhancement for turbulent flow in practical design of thermal
systems.
Al-Fahed et al. [12] carried out an experimental analysis to
study and compare heat transfer coefficients and pressure drop for
a plain, microfin and twisted tape inserts in laminar flow region.
The studied microfin tube is shown in Fig. 2. The experiments
were performed by using a single shell and tube heat exchanger in
which oil was used as a working fluid and steam as a heating
source. Three different twist ratios 3.6, 5.4 and 7.1 for twisted
tapes and two widths ratio (ratio of width of twisted tape to inside
diameter) 0.95 (tight fit) and 0.77 (loose fit) were selected in the
study. It was concluded from the results that the use of twisted
tapes is an effective method to increase heat transfer rate. It was
also found that heat transfer rate increases with decreasing twist
ratio. Higher values of heat transfer were obtained by using tight
fit tapes for twist ratios 3.6 and 5.4 than loose fit tapes. But the
high heat transfer rate was obtained by loose fit tapes than tight fit
tapes for twist ratio of 7.1. The comparison of friction factor of
microfin tube with that of plain tube was done using Friction Loss
Ratio (ratio of friction factor of a given case to that of the plain
tube). The friction loss ratio of microfin tube was approximately
unity due to which pressure drop in microfin tube was almost
same as that of plain tube. A small increase in heat transfer and
pressure drop coefficients was obtained by using microfin tubes
over the plain tubes therefore, the studied microfin tubes were not
found useful for laminar flow.
Liao and Xin [13] carried out an experimental study on tubes
with three dimensional internal extended surfaces (3-DIEST) as
shown in Fig. 3. Experiments were performed to investigate heat
transfer and friction characteristics for water, ethylene glycol and
ISO VG46 turbine oil with laminar, transitional and turbulent flow
through four tubes with three dimensional internal extended
surfaces and copper continuous or segmented twisted tape inserts.
The experiments were carried out on three copper continuous
twisted tapes inserts of twist ratio 5, 10 and15 along with two
copper segmented twisted tape inserts with a twist ratio of 10 and
15. Range of Prandtl number (Pr) and Reynolds number (Re) was
5.5–590 and 80–50,000 respectively. The results showed that
 196
Table 1
Correlations for Nusselt number and friction factor.

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

1 Sarma et al.a [8] – Laminar – Twist Ratio: 2.5–10, Twisted tapes
4:12 –
Num ¼ 0:2036Re0:55 Pr 0:3 1 þ HD
Reynolds No: 100–
3000, Prandtl No: 3–
400
 
2 Sarma et al.a [9] – Laminar, – Twist ratio: 2–10, Twisted tapes f
¼ 0:474 
log 10 Nu
¼ b0 þ ½1 þ D=H3:378
Pr1=3 ð1 þ D=H Þ
2
transition Reynolds no: 200–
0:3log 10 ½Re
and 100,000 b1 log 10 ½Re  2
 2  3 þ 0:065 log 10 ½Re  4:66  10  3
turbulent þ b2 log 10 ½Re þ b3 log 10 ½Re
 3
log 10 ½Re
(For Re ¼5000– 17,000, L/D–24.8 and Pr E0.7)
(‘b0’¼0.974, ‘b1’¼  0.783, ‘b2’¼0.35, ‘b3’¼  0.0273)

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

(‘t’¼ pitch)
 0:14 2 30:10
3 Aggarwal and Servotherm oil Laminar Heating Twist ratio: 2.41– Viscous liquid in  0:0216
10
Nua ¼ 0:725 ðReS Þ0::568 ðyÞ  0:788 ðPr Þ1=3 μμb (Heating) Re
Raja Rao [10] and 4.84 pipe with twisted w 6 75:74 y S þ7
 0:14
 6 7
cooling Reynolds No.: 70– tapes μb f a :ReS :y0:28 ¼ 6
10 7
4 Yilmaz et al. [16]
5 Naphon [18]
6 Sivashanmugam
and Suresh [19]
7 Chang et al. [21]
8 Chang et al. [22]
9 Promvonge and
  1:23  0:053
  3:99  0:16
Eiasma-ard [23]
10 Sivashanmu-gam
and Suresh [26]
6  0:3481
7
Nua ¼ 1:365ðReS Þ0:517 ðyÞ  1:05 ðPr Þ1=3 μw 4 ReS 5
4000, Prandtl No.: 19:48 y
195–375 (Cooling)
Air Turbulent Heating Angular orientation Radial guide vane Nu ¼ 0:133Re0:65 Pr 0:4 ð1 þ tan θÞ0:406 (For swirl generator –
of vane (θ): 15°, 30°, swirl generators with conical deflecting element)
45°, 60°, 75°, Rey- Nu ¼ 0:313Re0:576 Pr 0:4 ð1 þ tan θÞ0:397 (For swirl generator
nolds No.: 32,000– with spherical deflecting element)
111,000
Nu ¼ 0:368Re0:561 Pr 0:4 ð1 þ tan θÞ0:458 (For swirl generator
with no deflecting element)
Cold and hot Turbulent Cooling Tube diameter, Twisted tape
2:475 1=3
1:045
Nu ¼ 0:648 Re0:36 1þ HD Pr f ¼ 3:517Re  0:414 1 þ HD
water pitch, Reynolds No.: (Pr43)
7000–23,000, H/D:
3.1–5.5
Water Laminar Heating Twist ratio: 1.95, Helical screw-tape Nu ¼0.017Re0.996PrY  0.5437 f ¼10.7564Re  0.387Y  1.054
2.93, 3.91 & 4.89,
Reynolds No.
       
Air Laminar & Heating Twist Ratio: 1, 1.5, 2, Broken Twisted Nu ¼ Pr 1=3 Ren ðA y þ B y e  C fygX Þ  f ¼ E y þ K y e  MfygRe
turbulent 2.5 & 1, Dimension- Tape (X’ is dimensionless axial location) f _ is Fanning friction factor,
less Axial Location, A ¼ 0:0452 þ 0:3e  0:141y E ¼ 0:0174 þ 0:216 e  0:332y
Reynolds No.: 1000–
B ¼ 0:041 þ 1:28 e  1:49y K ¼ 0:02 þ 0:161 e  1:27y
40,000
C ¼ 0:776  0:0919 e  0:497y M ¼ 0:00034  0:000321 e  0:548y
Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 1.56, Serrated Twisted Nu ¼ 0:0364 þ 3:66 e  1:11y  f ¼ 0:07 þ 9:87 e  1:81y
1.88, 2.81 or 1, Reð0:8  0:375 e Þ Pr 1=3 Reð  0:08  0:94 e Þ
 0:31y  1:23y
Tape
Reynolds No.: 5000–
25 000
(For smooth tapes) (For smooth tapes)
Nu ¼ 0:118 þ 5:84 e  1:83y  f ¼ 0:33 þ 0:756 e  0:765y
Re ð 0:73  0:695 e  1:26y Þ
Pr 1=3 Re ð 0:166  0:235 e  0:524y Þ
(For serrated tapes) (For serrated tapes)
Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 3.75 & Combination of
Nu ¼ 1:356Re0:433 Pr 0:4 d=D Y f ¼ 24:87Re  0:43 d=D Y
7.5, Inner Test Tube Conical Ring and
Diameter, Small end Twisted Tape
Diameter of Conical
Ring, Reynolds No:
6000 - 26000
Water Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 1.95, Helical Screw- Nu ¼ 0:4675Re0:4774 Pr U Y  0:2138 f ¼ 32:415Re  0:598 Y  0:7986
2.93, 3.91 & 4.89, Tape
 Reynolds No.:2700 –
13,500,
11 Sivashanmu-gam Water Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 1.95, Regularly Spaced Nu ¼ 0:258 ðReÞ0:554 ðPrÞðY Þ  0:242 f ¼ ðReÞ  0:384 ðY Þ  0:852
   
and Suresh [27] 2.93, 3.91 & 4.89, Helical Screw- S  0:042 S  0:047
Spacer Length: 100, Tape 1þ 1þ
Dh Dh
200, 300, and
400 mm, Equivalent
(‘Dh’ is the equivalent diameter of test section
Diameter
with respect to spacer diameter)
12 Promvonge [28] Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 4, 6, Twisted Tape and Nu ¼ 4:47Re0:5 Pr0:4 CR  0:382 Y  0:38 f ¼ 338:37Re  0:367 CR  0:887
Coil Spring Pitch Wire Coil Y  0:455
Ratio: 4, 6 and 8, Turbulators
(‘CR’ is coil spring pitch ratio)
Reynolds No: 3000 -
18,000
13 Eiamsa-ard et al. Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 3, Tape- Short-Length Nu ¼ 0:0664Re0:693 Pr0:4 LR0:122 f ¼ 2:8Re  0:386 LR0:19
[29] Length Ratio: 0.29, Twisted Tape (‘LR’ ¼ tape-length ratios (ratio of short length twisted
0.43, 0.57 & 1.0, tape to full length twisted tape))
Reynolds No.: 4000

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

- 20,000.


14 Chang et al. [30] Air-Water Turbulent Heating Air-to-Water Mass Spiky Twisted NuS ¼ 0:323 þ 0:1366  e  1164AW  __
 1074AW
(Two Phase Flow Ratio (AW): Tapes, Re0:79  0:135e
Flow) 0.0004 – 0.01,
Reynolds No:
5000 – 15,000
15 Thianpong et al. Cold/Hot Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 3, 5 & 7 Dimpled Tube
  0:12 0:3
  0:2
Nu ¼ 0:014Re0:9 ðPRÞ  0:93 y=w Pr f ¼ 9:1Re  0:37 ðPRÞ  0:11 y=w
[31] Water Reynolds No: with Twisted Tape ((‘PR’ ¼ pitch ratios (pitch of dimple/tube diameter))
12,000 – 44,000,
PR: 0.7 & 1.0
16 Nagarajan et al. Cold/hot water Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 7.44, Micro-Finned Nu ¼ 0:3962 ðYÞ  0:3866 ðReÞ0:6717
micro þ tt ðPrÞ
0:4
f ¼ 739:2 ðY L  R Þ  0:634 ðReÞmicro
 1:013
þ tt
[33] 8.27 and 11.17, tube with Full-  0:14 (For twisted tape inserts)
μ
Absolute Viscosity of Length Twisted μw
Fluid, Reynolds No: Tape and Left- (For twisted tape inserts)
5300 – 12,000 Right Twisted
Nu ¼ 2:81 ðY L  R Þ  0:396 ðReÞ0:478
micro þ L  R f ¼ 739:2 ðY L  R Þ  0:634
Tape  0:14  1:013
ðReÞmicro
ðPrÞ0:4 μμ þ L  RÞ
w
(For left-right inserts)
(‘mw’ is absolute viscosity at wall)
(For left-right inserts)
17 Murugesan et al. Cold/Hot Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 2.0 , Square-Cut Twis- Nu ¼ 0:041Re0:826 Pr0:33 y  0:228 f ¼ 6:936Re  0:579 y  0:259
[35] Water 4.4 and 6.0, Rey- ted Tape (For square-cut twisted tapes) (For square-cut twisted tapes)
nolds No: 2000 – Nu ¼ 0:027Re0:862 Pr0:33 y  0:215 f ¼ 2:642Re  0:474 y  0:302
12,000 (For plain twisted tapes) (For plain twisted tapes)
18 Murugesan et al. Cold/Hot Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 2.0 , Twisted Tape Nu ¼ 0:063 Re0:789 Pr0:33 y  0:257 f ¼ 28:91Re  0:731 y  0:255
[36] Water 4.4 and 6.0, Rey- Consisting of
nolds No: 2000 – Wire-Nails
12,000
19 Seemawute and Water Turbulent Heating Width of Peripheral Peripherally-Cut
w   0:148
w   0:18
Nu ¼ 0:422Re0:544 Pr0:4 W f ¼ 59:08Re  0:615 W
Eiasma-ard [37] Cut, Width of Twis- Twisted tape
ted Tape, Reynolds with an Alter-
No: 5000 – 20,000 nate Axis
20 Eiamsa-ard et al. Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio, Tape Single Twisted
  0:26
  0:48
Nu ¼ 0:06Re0:75 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 10:02Re  0:46 y=w
[38] width, Free Spacing Tape, Full-Length (For single twisted tape inserts) (For single twisted tape inserts)
Length, Inside Dia- Dual and Reg-
  0:26
  0:54
Nu ¼ 0:069Re0:74 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 30:5Re  0:56 y=w
meter of Test Tube, ularly-Spaced

   0:1

   0:2
Reynolds No: 4000 Dual Twisted 1:5 s=D þ 1 1:5 s=D þ 1
to 19,000 Tapes
(For dual twisted tapes elements in tandem) (For dual twisted tapes elements in tandem)
[(y/w) ¼ twist ratio and ‘s’ ¼ free spacing length and ‘D’ ¼
inside diameter of test tube]
21 Wongcharee and Water Laminar Heatinga Alternate Clock-
  0:594
Nu ¼ 0:0032Re0:986 Pr0:4 y=W

197
S. Eiamsa-ard [39] wise and Counter-
 198
Table 1 (continued )

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

53 Twist Ratio: 3, 4 & 5, Clockwise Twis-

  0:896
f ¼ 12:886Re  0:304 y=W (For alternate
2010 Reynolds No: 830 – ted-Tapes clockwise and counter-clockwise twisted tapes
1990 (TA))
(For alternate clockwise and counter-clockwise twisted tapes
(TA))

  0:521
  0:674
Nu ¼ 0:005Re1:139 Pr0:4 y=W f ¼ 6:559Re  0:303 y=W
(For typical twisted tapes (TT)) (For typical twisted tapes (TT))
22 Murugesan et al. Cold/Hot Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 2.0, 4.4 V-Cut Twisted Nu ¼ 0:0296Re0:853 Pr0:33 y  0:222 f ¼ 8:632Re  0:615 y  0:269
[41] Water & 6.0, Depth ratio: Tape   1:148  h w i  0:751   2:477  h w i  1:914
de de
0.34 – 0.43 1þ 1þ 1þ 1þ
W W W W
Width Ratio: 0.34

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

– 0.43
(For tubes fitted with V-Cut twisted tapes) (For tubes fitted with V-Cut twisted tapes)
Reynolds No:
2000 – 12,000
23 Saha et al. [43] Servotherm Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Circular Duct Num ¼ 5:172  2
20
12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSW ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
Medium Oil Swirl Parameter, Having 2:5  1=7
h
1 þ 0:06854Gz0:9427
Rayleigh Number, Integral Axial 6B  2:655 C 7 1þ 10  6 Sw2:67 
6@ A 7
Rib Pitch: 2.0437, Rib Roughness 6 þ 7:9548  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7
0:0686 !
6 7
6 7 ð1 þ expð0:0785 cÞÞ e=Dh
5.6481, Tape Thick- and Fitted with 6 7 1þ
0:7732
4þ 5
ness, Rib Height: Center-Cleared P=e
1:55861  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18
0.07692, 0.1026, Twisted-Tape
 0:14
Dynamic Viscosity, μ
 b 
Hydraulic Diameter, μw
Wetted perimeter,
0:06276 !
ð1 þ expð0:09746cÞÞ : e=Dh
Centre Clearance: 0, 1þ
ðP=eÞ0:78974
0.2, 0.4, 0.6, Rey-
nolds No. (e ¼ Rib height, Reax ¼ Reynolds No. at axial flow condition,
(e/Dh) ¼ rib height, (P/e) ¼ rib pitch, c ¼ centre clearance, δ
¼ Tape Thickness)
24 Saha [44] Servotherm Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Circular Tube Num ¼ 5:172  2
20 12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSw ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
Medium Oil Swirl Parameter, Having

0:9335 2:5
h

6 B 1 þ 0:07985Gz þ 7  1=7
Rayleigh Number, Axial Corruga- 6@ C 1 þ 10  6 Sw2:67
6  2:655 A þ7
7
Tape Thickness, Cor- tions and Fitted 6 8:2365  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7 0 1
6 7 1þ
rugation Pitch: with Centre- 4 5
 15 2:18 B ð1 þ expð0:088cÞÞ: C
2.0437, 5.6481, Cor- Cleared Twis- 1:5447  10 ðReax :RaÞ B C
B expð0:0421 sin θÞ C
rugation angle: 30°, ted-Tape  0:14 @ A
μ
ðP=eÞ
0:634
60°, Dynamic Visc-  b
μw
osity, Hydraulic Dia- !
meter, Wetted peri- ð1 þ expð0:093cÞÞ:expð0:0839 sin ϑÞ
 1þ
0:685
meter, Centre Clear- P=e
ance: 0, 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, ((P/e) ¼ Corrugation pitch, c ¼centre clearance,
Reynolds No. θ¼ Corrugation angle)
25 Karami et al. [45] Hot Water Turbulent Cooling Twist Ratio: 1.76 to Classic Twisted Nu ¼ 90:2þ 14:7Re  3:72 R  0:276 Re2  __
3.53, Reynolds No.: 0:539 Re  R
4021 to 16,118
Tape (‘R’ is twist ratio)
26 Bhattachary-ya Servotherm Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Circular Tube Num ¼ 5:172  2
π þ 2  2δ=Dh
20 2:5 12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSw ¼ 17:355 π  4δ=Dh
et al. [47] Medium Oil Swirl Parameter, Having Integral 0:9416
Rayleigh Number, Transverse Rib 6 B 1 þ 0:074931Gz C 7 ð1 þ 10  6 Sw Þ 2:67 1=7
6B  2:655 C 7
0:0635 !
Rib Pitch: 2.0437, Roughness with 6@ A 7 ð1þ exp ð0:0621cÞÞ: e=Dh
6 þ 7:9216  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7
6 7 1þ
0:728
5.6481, Rib Height: Centre-Cleared 4 5 P=e
0.07692, 0.1026, Twisted-Tape þ 1:5363  10  15 ðReax :RaÞ2:18
Dynamic Viscosity,
Hydraulic Diameter,
  0:14
Wetted perimeter, μ (For both integral transfer rib and centre-
 b 
Centre Clearance: 0, μw cleared twisted tapes)
0.2, 0.4, 0.6, Rey-
0:0658 !
ð1 þ expð0:09818cÞÞ: e=Dh
nolds No. 1þ
0:7925
P=e

(For both integral transfer rib and centre-cleared twisted

tapes)
Num ¼ 5:172  2
π þ 2  2δ=Dh
20 2:5 12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSw ¼ 17:355 π  4δ=Dh
0:9427
!
6 B 1 þ 0:06854Gz C 7 1þ
6B  2:655 C 7 ð1þ 10  6 Sw2:67 Þ1=7
6@ A 7 ðexpð0:03725cÞÞ
6 þ 7:9548  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7
6 7
4 5
 15 2:18
þ 1:55861  10 ðReax :RaÞ (For only centre cleared twisted tape)
 0:14
μ
 b  ð1þ ðexpð0:05471cÞÞÞ
μw

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

(For only centre cleared twisted tape)
Num ¼ 5:172  2
π þ 2  2δ=Dh
20 2:5 12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSw ¼ 17:355 π  4δ=Dh
0:9427 6
6 B 1 þ 0:069237Gz
2:67 1=7
C 7 ð1 þ 10 Sw Þ
6B  2:655 C 7
0:35297 !!
6@ A 7 e=Dh
6 þ 8:1544  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7
6 7 1þ
0:44896
4 5 P=e
 15 2:18
þ 1:86452  10 ðReax :RaÞ
 0:14
0:44521 !
μ e=Dh (For transverse rib only)
 b  1þ
0:699538
μw P=e

(For transverse rib only)

8 9 ( )
27 Bhuiya et al. [49] Air Turbulent Heating Porosity: 1.6, 4.5, Perforated Twis- 3 2
 0:0027R3p þ 0:0583R2p þ
< 0:0002Rp  0:0046Rp þ >
> =
8.9 and 14.7%, Rey- ted Tape fp ¼ :
Nup ¼ 0:0334Rp : 0:0455Rp þ 25:436
nolds No.: 7200 to >
: >
;  
þ 0:6569
 
3 2
Re 0:00009Rp  0:0022Rp þ 0:012Rp  0:6006
49,800 3 2
Re 0:00005Rp  0:0013Rp þ 0:0073Rp þ 0:5501 Pr0:33

(Rp ¼ Porosity)
28 Saha and Saha Servotherm Laminar Check Graetz Number, Circular Num ¼ 5:172  2
π þ 2  2δ=Dh
20 2:5 12:0 30:1 ðf ReÞSw ¼ 17:355 π  4δ=Dh
[50] Medium Oil Swirl Parameter, Tube Having 0:9252
Rayleigh Number, Integral Helical 6 B 1 þ 0:06938Gz þ C 7 ð1 þ 10  6 Sw Þ 2:67 1=7
6B  2:655 C 7 0 1
Tape Thickness, Rib Roughness 6@ A 7 1þ
6 8:1755  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 7
6 7 @ ð1 þ expð0:0812pÞÞ:expð0:05632 sin α A
Screw-tape para- with Helical 4 5
ðe=Dh Þ
0:6295

meter: 1, 0.41, 0.31, Screw-Tapes þ 1:5231  10  15

ðReax :RaÞ 2:18

0.25  0:14
Rib height: μ
 b 
0.07692, 0.1026, μw
!
Rib helix angle: ð1 þ expð0:08857pÞÞexpð0:08113 sin αÞ
1þ
0:6518
30°, 60°, Dynamic e=Dh
Viscosity, Hydrau-
(α ¼ Rib helix angle)
lic Diameter, Wet-
ted perimeter,
Reynolds No.
29 Bharadwaj et al. Water Laminar to Heating Twist ratio: 10.15, Spirally Grooved Nu ¼ 0:1949Re0:71145 f ¼ 15:88Re  0:7597
[51] Turbulent 7.95 & 3.4, Reynolds Tube with Twisted (For Y ¼10.16, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 10.16, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist)
No. Tape Nu ¼ 0:6916Re0:535 f ¼ 8:029Re  0:6467
(For Y ¼10.16, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼10.16, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist
Nu ¼ 0:02564Re0:9375 f ¼ 0:021Re0:0
(For Y ¼10.16, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 10.16, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:01887Re0:9724 f ¼ 0:0614Re  0:1015

199
 200
Table 1 (continued )

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

(For Y ¼10.16, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 10.16, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise

twist)
Nu ¼ 0:49054Re0:6005 f ¼ 2:7394Re  0:537
(For Y ¼7.95, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 7.95, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:2458Re0:6749 f ¼ 1:636Re  0:4671
(For Y ¼7.95, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼7.95, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:02237Re0:951 f ¼ 0:0527Re  0:0912
(For Y ¼7.95, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 7.95, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:00625Re1:09 f ¼ 0:0617Re  0:097
(For Y ¼7.95, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 7.95, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:2365Re0:692 f ¼ 24:84Re  0:7375

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

(For Y ¼3.4, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 3.4, Re o 7000, Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:45844Re0:6143 f ¼ 10:274Re  0:6267
(For Y ¼3.4, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 3.4, Re o 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:0496Re0:8782 f ¼ 0:418Re  0:2847
(For Y ¼3.4, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 3.4, Re 4 7000, Clockwise twist)
Nu ¼ 0:0085Re0:1:0677 f ¼ 0:2175Re  0:1927
(For Y ¼3.4, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist) (For Y ¼ 3.4, Re 4 7000, Anti-Clockwise twist)
30 Eiamsa-ard and Water Turbulent Heating twist ratio: 3.0, 4.0 & Alternate Clock-
  0:36
  0:77
Nu ¼ 0:31 Res 0:6 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 46:39 Res  0:544 y=w
Promvonge [52] 5.0, twist angle: 30°, wiseand Counter- ð1 þ sin θÞ0:44 ð1þ sin θÞ0:45
60° & 90°, Reynolds Clockwise Twis-
No.: 3000 – 27,000 ted-Tape
(y/w ¼ twist ratio, θ ¼ twist angle)
31 Eiamsa-ard et al. Cold/Hot Turbulent Cooling twisted ratios: 6.0, Regularly Spaced Nu ¼ 0:01014Re0:929 Pr1=3 ð1 þ SÞ  0:266 f ¼ 4:413Re  0:398 ð1 þ SÞ  0:376
[53] Water 8.0, free space Twisted Tape (S¼ Free Space Ratio)
ratio: 1.0, 2.0 &
3.0, Reynolds No.
32 Eiamsa-ard et al. Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio, Coil Combined Non- Nu ¼ 0:197Re0:708 Pr0:4 Y  0:244 f ¼ 12:313Re  0:232 Y  0:302
[54] pitch Ratio, Rey- Uniform Wire Coil (For decreasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and twisted (For decreasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and
nolds No.: 4600 - and Twisted Tape tape) twisted tape)
20,000 Nu ¼ 0:186Re0:713 Pr0:4 Y  0:249 f ¼ 22:366Re  0:277 Y  0:449
(For decreasing/increasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and (For decreasing/increasing coil pitch ratio
twisted tape) arrangement and twisted tape)
33 Eiamsa-ard et al. Water Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio (y/w): 3, Delta-Winglet
  0:423
  0:566
Nu ¼ 0:18Re0:67 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 24:8Re  0:51 y=w
[55] 4 & 5, Depth of Wing Twisted Tape
0:982
1:87
1 þ d=w 1 þ d=w
Cut Ratios (d/w):
0.11, 0.21 and 0.32,
Reynolds No.: 3000 (For oblique delta-winglet twisted tapes) (For oblique delta-winglet twisted tapes)

  0:465
  0:564
– 27,000 Nu ¼ 0:184Re0:675 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 21:7Re  0:45 y=w

0:76
1:41
1þ d=w 1 þ d=w

(For straight delta-winglet twisted tapes) (For straight delta-winglet twisted tapes)
34 Sarada et al. [56] Air Turbulent Heating Modified Twist Ratio Varying Width Nu ¼ ð0:4141  10  4 ÞRe0:9591 f ¼ 0:01391Re  0:1374
(H/w):, Hydraulic Twisted Tape h
  0:04645 i
  1:411 h
  0:003 i
  0:2097
0:001 þ H=w Dh =L 0:001 þ H=w De =L
Diameter, Length of
Test Pipe: Reynolds (3.17 o H/w o 61, 0.02 o De/L o 0.03) (3.17 o H/w o 61, 0.02 o De/L o 0.03)
No.: 6000 – 13,500 (‘Dh’ ¼ hydraulic diameter, ‘H’ is pitch)
35 Ibrahim [57] Cold/Hot Laminar Heating Twist Ratio: 2.17, Flat Tubes with Nu ¼ 6:11Re0:199 ð1 þ xÞ  0:064 Y  0:318 f ¼ 54:41Re  0:87 ð1 þ xÞ  0:045 Y  0:146
Water 3.33, 4.3, & 5, Ratio Helical Screw-
of Spacer Length to Tape
Diameter (x) ¼ 0 r
x r 66.67
 Reynolds No.: 570
- 1310
36 Eiamsa-ard et al. Water Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 2.5, 3.0, Counter/Co-Swir-
  0:9
  1:01
Nu ¼ 0:473Re0:66 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 72:29Re  0:53 y=w
[59] 3.5 &4.0 ling Flow with
Reynolds No.: 3700 - Twin Twisted (For twin counter twisted tapes) (For twin counter twisted tapes)
21,000 Tapes
  0:61
  0:84
Nu ¼ 0:264Re0:66 Pr0:4 y=w f ¼ 41:7Re  0:52 y=w
(For twin co-twisted tapes) (For twin co-twisted tapes)
Graetz No.: 100 –
0:14
37 Patil [61] Cold/Hot Laminar Heating Tube having Nu ¼ 4:631 K b' =K w' f ¼ 42:23 ξ(Re/ya r 6.7)
2 n
30:2
0:05
Water 1500, Modified Power-Law Fluids 3:475 o0:53 f ¼ 38:4 Re=y ξ
Twist Ratio: 2.69 – with Varying 6 0:4935 Pr Re=y 7
6 n o2:6316 7
12.27, tape thickness Width Twisted 4 5
þ 1þ 0:0954ðGzÞ0:8685
to tube diameter Tape (For, 6.7 r Re/ya r 100)
ratio: 0.028 – 0.044,
Generalised Rey-
(‘Gz’ ¼ Graetz Number (Wcp/kL), ya ¼ Twist Ratio), Kb’ ¼
0:3
nolds No.: 10 – 500, f ¼ C  Re=y ξ
flow consistency index of bulk mean condition and, Kw’ ¼
a
(For, Re/y 4100)
Generalised Prandtl
2
flow consistency index of wall condition)
No.: 600 – 1200. ξ  ¼ π=π=2



2

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

π þ 2  2δ=w = π  4δ=w




π= π  4δ=w y=y

C  ¼ 8:8201y   2:1193ðyÞ2 þ
0:2108ðyÞ3  0:0069ðyÞ4

38 Saha and Mallick Viscous Oil Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Rectangular and Nu ¼ 5:172  2
82 32:0 9 f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
[63] Swirl Parameter, Square Plain >
 >
0:1 h
> 0:9125 2:5 >  1=7
> 6 1 þ 0:08932Gz
>
>
þ >
>
>
Rayleigh Number, Ducts with <4  2:655 7
5 = 1 þ 10  6 Sw2:67 R  1:46
Twist Ratio: 2.692, Twisted-Tape 8:2273  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565
>
> >
> (R ¼ AR if AR r 1 and R ¼ 1/AR if AR 4 1)
5.385, 2.597, 5.193, >
> >
>
>
: >
;
2.308 & 4.615, Space þ 1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18 (For square and rectangular ducts with full
Ratio: 2.692, 5.385,  0:14 length twisted tapes)
μb
2.597, 5.193, 2.308 & μw ðR þ 0:1Þ0:15
4.615, Aspect ratio: (R ¼ AR if AR Z 1 and R ¼ 1/AR if AR o 1)
1, 0.5, 0.333, Rey- (For square and rectangular ducts with full length twisted
nolds No.: 30 – 1100, tapes)
Prandtl No.: 80 - Nu ¼ 5:172  2
82 32:0 9 f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
500 >
2:5 >
0:1
 1=7
h
>
> 1 þ 0:08932Gz0:9125 þ >
>
>
> 6 7 >
> 1þ 10  6 Sw2:67 
<4  2:655 5 =
8:2273  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 h  i
>
> >
> R  1:46
1 þ aX þ bX 2 þ cX 3
>
> >
>
>
: þ 1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18 >
;
 0:14
μb (R ¼ AR if AR r 1 and R ¼ 1/AR if AR 4 1)
ðR þ 0:1Þ0:15
μw a ¼ - 8.51  10  2, b ¼ - 7.16  10  3, c ¼ -
 2.81  10  4, (X ¼ (1 – l)0.2Sw0.425)
 1 þ aX þ bX 2 þ cX 3

(R ¼ AR if AR Z 1 and, R ¼ 1/AR if AR o 1)
a ¼ - 6.18  10  3, b ¼ 4.15  10  5, c ¼ - 5.96  10  8, (X ¼ (For square and rectangular ducts with short
(1 – l)0.2Sw0.531 Pr0.3) length twisted tapes)
Here ‘l’ is non-dimensional twisted tape length (ratio of
length of twisted tape to length of the duct)
(For square and rectangular ducts with short length twis-
ted tapes)
82 32:0 90:1  2
>
2:5 >
>
>
> 1 þ0:08932Gz0:9125 þ >
>
> f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
>
<6 2:655 7 > h
4 6
 5 =  1=7
Nu ¼ 5:172 8:2273  10 Sw:Pr 0:565
1 þ 10  6 Sw2:67 
>
> >
>
>
> >
> h  i
>
: >
;
þ1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18  1:46
R 1þ aX þ bX þ cX 3
2
 0:14
μb
ðR þ 0:1Þ0:15

201
μw (R ¼ AR if AR r 1 and R ¼ 1/AR if AR 4 1)

 1 þ aX þ bX 2 þ cX 3
 202
Table 1 (continued )

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

(R ¼ AR if AR Z 1 and R ¼ 1/AR if AR o 1) a ¼ 2.86  10  3, b ¼ - 1.23  10  5, c ¼

a ¼ 1.48  10  3, b ¼ - 8.16  10  7, c ¼ 1.32  10  10, (X ¼ 1.45  10  8, (X ¼ Sw0.425 s exp (ds))
Sw0.531 Pr0.3 s exp (ds)) (For square and rectangular ducts with regularly
(For square and rectangular ducts with regularly spaced spaced twisted tapes)
twisted tapes)
39 Pramanik and Viscous Oil Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Rectangular and Nu ¼ 5:172  2
82 32:0 9 f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=D
Saha [64] Swirl Parameter, Square Ducts with >
 >
0:1
 1=7
> 1 þ 0:08932Gz0:9125 2:5 þ
> >
>
>
> >
> 1þ 10  6 Sw2:67
Rayleigh Number, Transverse <64  7
2:655 5 =
Hydraulic diameter Ribs and Twis- 8:2273  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565
0:0654 0:215 !
>
> >
> e=D l
¼13, 17. 33 & 19.5 ted Tapes >
> >
> ðARÞ  1:47  1þ
>
: þ 1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18 >
;
0:587
mm, Twist Ratio: P=e
2.5, Space Ratio: 2.5  0:14  0:15
μb 1

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

& 5.0, Aspect ratio: þ 0:1
μw AR (For short length twisted tapes with internal rib
1, 0.5, 0.333, Rey-
0:0748 0:195 ! turbulators)
nolds No.: 25 – e=D l
þ 1þ
0:692
1500, Prandtl No.: P=e
80 - 400
(For AR r 1)
(For short length twisted tapes with internal rib
turbulators)
Nu ¼ 5:172  2
82 32:0 9 f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=D
>
2:5 0:1
> >
>  1=7
>
> 1 þ 0:08932Gz0:9125 þ >
>
>6
<  7
2:655 5 >
= 1þ 10  6 Sw2:67 ðARÞ  1:38 
4
8:2273  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565
0:143 d0:157 !
>
> >
> e=D
>
> >
> 1þ
s1:178
>
: þ 1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18 >
; 0:161
P=e
 0:14  0:15
μb 1
þ 0:1
μw AR (For regularly spaced twisted tapes with inter-

0:1648 d0:135 ! nal rib turbulators)
e=D s1:206
þ 1þ
0:158
P=e

(For AR r 1)
(For regularly spaced twisted tapes with internal rib
turbulators)
40 Saha [65] Viscous Oil Laminar Heating Graetz Number, Rectangular and Nu8¼ 5:172   2:67 1=7
2
2:5 32:0 f ¼ 45:8129 1 þ 10  6 pReffiffi
Rayleigh Number, Square Ducts hav- >
> y
< 1 þ 0:08932Gz0:9125 þ

2θ0:1859 0:226 !
Twist Ratio, Space ing Axial 6  2:655 7
4 5 l
>
> 8:2273  10  6 p Reffiffi 0:565
ðARÞ  1:39
 1þ π
0:612 A
Ratio, Aspect ratio: Corrugation : y:Pr P
1, 0.5, 0.333, Rey- Roughness and o0:1
e

nolds No., Prandtl Twisted Tapes þ 1:5638  10  15 ðRe:RaÞ2:18

No.: 175 – 538 (with Oblique  0:14  0:15 For full length twisted tapes, l ¼ 1,
μb 1 0  0:0521 1
Teeth) þ 0:1 Reffiffi
μw AR @ 1 þ 0:3624 p t 0:183 A
A¼ y hl

0:1346 0:183 !
2θ=π l e0:0291 sin α
1þ
0:584 B
P=e

For full length twisted tapes, l ¼ 1,

  0:01752 
Reffiffi sin α For short length twisted tapes:
B ¼ 1 þ 0:5436 p y t 0:186
hl e0:512 0  0:1269 1
B 1 þ 0:8542 pffiffiy
Re
For short length twisted tapes: C
0 1 A¼@ A
 0:0895 t 0:1743 e0:0357 sin α
Reffiffi
@ 1þ 0:3289 p t 0:2186 A
hl
B¼ y hl

e0:06239 sin α
 Nu ¼ 5:172   2:67 1=7
82 9 f ¼ 45:8129 1 þ 10  6 p
Reffiffi
>
2:5 32:0 >0:1 y
>
> 1 þ 0:08932Gz0:9125 þ >
>
>
> 6 7 >
>
>
> 6 8:2273  10  6 7 >
> ðARÞ  1:25 
< 6 7 =
2θ0:1742 d0:168 !
4 2:655 5
>
>
Reffiffi
p :Pr 0:565 >
> 1þ π

P 0:559
s1:183
A
>
> y >
>
>
> >
>
>
: þ 1:5638  10  15 2:18 >
; e
ðRe:RaÞ
 0:14  0:15 0  0:1561 1
μb 1
B 1 þ 0:7329 pffiffiy
Re
þ 0:1 C
μw AR B C

0:1648 d0:141 ! A ¼ B t 0:1432 C
2θ=π @ hl A
s1:325
1þ
0:216 B e0:0451 sin α
P=e
0  0:0639 1 (‘thl’ is non-dimensional tooth horizontal
length, ‘α’ is twisted-tape tooth angle)
B 1þ 0:03187 pffiffiy
Re
C
B¼@ A (For regularly spaced twisted tapes)
0:1861 0:04587 sin α
t hl e

(For regularly spaced twisted tapes)

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

41 Mazumder and Air Turbulent Heating Reynolds No.: 11,543 Nu ¼ 0:023ðTerm1 þ Term2Þ f ¼K
 0:0541 0 0 1 12:67 11=7
Saha [66] – 108,166, Prandtl  0:15 e 0:182 0
1 Dh l  2
number: 0.7 þ 0:1 
P 0:754 B B Re @ π A C
 C
AR B B y C C
B C
B1þ 10  6 B C
π  D4δ
e
B h
C C
B B   C C
B @  2 0:5
A C
@  1þ π A
(AR r 1) 2y
(For short length twisted tapes)  0:0343
e 0:178
Dh l

P 0:739
e ðARÞ1:52
  2
π þ 2  2 Dδh
K ¼ 17:355 0 1
@ 
π A
δ
π 4 Dh

 2 !
π
1þ
2y

(For short length twisted tapes)

Nu ¼ 0:023ðTerm1 þ Term2Þ f ¼K
 0:1561 0:122 0 0 1 12:67 11=7
 0:15 e d 0
1 Dh s1:129  2
þ 0:1 
P 0:136 B B Rey @ π A C C
AR B B C C
B C
B1þ 10  6 B C
π  D4δ
e
B h
C C
B B  0:5 C C
B @  2 A C
@  1 þ 2yπ A

 0:135 0:108
e d
Dh s1:075

P 0:157
e ðARÞ1:49

AR r 1 (For regularly spaced twisted tapes)

(For regularly spaced twisted tapes)

203
 204
Table 1 (continued )

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

Term 1 ¼ 1:1978Pr0:4
2
2 0:25 30:8
4y þ π 2
6  0:5 7
6 7
6 π  4 Dδh 7
6 7
6 0 1 10:5 7
60 7
6 7
6 B Re2 @ 
π AC 7
6B y C 7
6B π  4 Dδ C 7
6B h
C 7
6B  2 0:5 C 7
6@ A 7
6 1 þ 2y π 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 2 7
6y 7
6   7
6 7
6 π þ 2 2 Dh δ 7

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
4 5

Term 2 ¼ 0:5044Pr0:33
2    2 30:33
π  4 Dδh Re
y
6    7
6  2 0:5 7
6 7
6 π
1 þ 2yπ 7
6 π  4Dδ 7
6 h 7
6ΔT w β 
 7
6 π þ 2  2 Dhδ
4y þ π
2 2 0:5 7
6 7
6 7
6 7
4 5

(ΔTw is wall to fluid bulk temperature difference)

42 Rout and Saha Servotherm Laminar Heating Screw-Tape Para- Wire-Coil Nu ¼ 5:172  2
82 32:0 9 f ¼ 17:355 π þπ 2 4δ=D
2δ=Dh
>
2:5 0:1
[67] Medium Oil meter: 1, 0.41, 0.31, and Helical > >
>  1=7
h
>
> 1 þ 0:06958Gz0:8825 þ >
0.25, Wire Coil Helix Screw-Tape >
<6  7 > >
= 1 þ 10  6 Sw2:67 
4 2:655 5
Angle: 30°, 60°, Coil 8:1332  10  6 Sw:Pr0:565 0 1
>
> >
> 1þ
Wire Diameter: >
> >
>
>
: >
; B ð1 þ expð0:0785pÞÞ: C
0.07692, 0.1026, þ 1:5638  10  15 ðReax RaÞ2:18 B C
B C
Reynolds No.,  0:14 B expð0:05538 sin θÞ C
μb B   0:6938 C
 @ A
Prandtl No. d
μw Dh

0 ð1 þ expð0:08858pÞÞ: 1
B expð0:08135: sin θÞ C
B C
þ B1 þ   0:6683 C
@ d A
Dh

(‘θ’ ¼ coil helix angle)

Nu ¼ 1:239 Gzð0:514y Þ y0:30
 0:27
43 Klaczak [68] Water Laminar Cooling Twist Ratio: 1.62 - Vertical Pipe with ___
5.29, Graetz No: 8.1- Twisted-Tape or
82.0, Reynolds No.:  0:14
ηar
110 -1500, Nu ¼ 0:858Pr0:3 Sw0:3 ηw
(For 8.1 r Gz r 82, 58 r Sw r 1900, 2.06 r Pr r 2.73)
(‘ηar’ average fluid dynamic viscosity, ‘ηw’ viscosity at wall)
44 Turbulent Cooling Nu ¼ 0:027Re0:862 Pr0:33 y  0:215 f ¼ 2:642Re  0:474 y  0:302
 Murugesan et al. Cold/Hot Twist Ratio: 2.0, 4.4, Vertical and Hor- (For plain twisted tapes) (For plain twisted tapes)
[69] Water and 6.0, Reynolds izontal Wing-Cut
No: 2000 - 12,000 Twisted
Tapes Nu ¼ 0:0484Re0:817 Pr0:33 y  0:263 f ¼ 13:769Re  0:650 y  0:257
(For vertical wing cut twisted tapes) (For vertical wing cut twisted tapes)
Nu ¼ 0:071Re0:775 Pr0:33 y  0:236 f ¼ 31:477Re  0:740 y  0:240
(For horizontal wing cut twisted tapes) (For horizontal wing cut twisted tapes)
45 Eiamsa-ard et. al. Air Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio, Helical Helically Twisted Nu ¼ 0:053Re0:796 Pr0:4 ðy=WÞ  0:127 f ¼ 12:653Re  0:295 ðy=WÞ  0:652
[71] Pitch Ratio, Rey- Tapes ðp=DÞ  0:188 ðp=DÞ  1:513
nolds No, 6000-
20,000
46 Eiamsa-ard and Water Turbulent Heating Pitch, Diameter, Double Twisted   0:21   0:21
Nu ¼ 1:85Re0:49 Pr0:4 y
Dh f ¼ 4:14Re  0:25 y
Dh
Wongcahree [72] Reynold No.: 5650 - Tapes and Micro-
17,000 fin tube twisted tapes acted in the same direction (for co-swirl)
arrangements while Micro-fin tube and twisted tapes acted in the same
direction
  0:28   0:33
Nu ¼ 2:29Re0:48 Pr0:4 Dyh f ¼ 5:29Re  0:26 y

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

Dh
twisted tapes acted in the same direction while Micro-fin
tube and twisted tapes acted in the opposite direction
  0:21   0:25
Nu ¼ 2:42Re0:475 Pr0:4 Dyh f ¼ 5:51Re  0:26 y
Dh
twisted tapes acted in opposite directions for counter swirl
47 Nanan et. al. [73] Air Turbulent Heating Diameter ratio, Per- Perforated Helical Nu ¼ 0:035Re0:795 Pr0:4 ðd=wÞ  0:068 f ¼ 1:915Re  0:299 ðd=wÞ  0:068
foration Pitch Ratio, Twisted Tapes ðs=wÞ0:086 ðs=wÞ0:094
Reynolds No.: 6000
(‘d/w’: Diameter ratio, ‘s/w’: Perforation Pitch Ratio)
- 20,000
48 Pal and Saha [74] Servotherm oil Laminar Cooling Twist Ratio, Corru- Twisted Tapes  0:1441  0:043491
Reffiffi ffiffiffi
Nu ¼ 5:172Gz0:3699 p y Pr0:2048 f ¼ 17:355 Re
p
gation Helix Angle, with Oblique V
 0:1434 0:07127 0:13716
Corrugation Height, Teeth and integral Gr t hl ð sin ϑÞ t hl 0:07074
 0:14
0:21022 μb
 0:82152
Reynolds No. spiral Corrugation
ð sin αÞ0:10474 hc ð sin ϑÞ  0:375767 hc
Roughness in Cir- μw
ð sin αÞ  0:10061
cular Tube
49 Jaisankar et al. Water Laminar Heating Twist Ratio: 3 & 5, Solar Water Heat- Nu ¼ 0:738Re0:444 Pr0:589 Y  0:305 f ¼ 1212:69Re  0:904 Y  0:965
[80] Length of Rod & ing System with
  0:124
  0:515
1þ S=Dh 1 þ S=Dh
Spacer (S), Equiva- Spacer and Twis-
lent Diameter of the ted Tapes
(For phase 1) (For phase 1)
Riser Tube w.r.t.
Spacer Diameter Nu ¼ 0:617Re0:574 Pr0:76 Y  0:309 f ¼ 13:11Re  0:256 Y  0:955

  0:129
  0:374
(Dh), Reynolds No. 1þ S=Dh 1 þ S=Dh

(For phase 2) (For phase 2)

50 Jaisankar et al. Water Turbulent Heating Twist Ratio: 3, 4, 5 & Solar Water Heat- Nu ¼ 0:000115Re1:169 Pr2:424 Y  0:511 f ¼ 271:1Re  0:947 Y  0:584
[81] 6, Reynolds No.: ing System with
3000 - 23,000 Helical Twisted
Tapes
51 Ray and Date [83] Air, Water, Laminar __ Twist Ratio: 1.5 – 10, Square Duct with " #1=2:6
____ 1 þ 1:6  10  2 Pr1:05 f :Re ¼ 36 ½1 þ 0:15 Sws 1=1:3
Fluid with Reynolds No.: 30 Twisted Tape Nu ¼ 3:96
Re1:25
Y
Moderately -1100, Prandtl No.:
High Prandtl 0.1 -500 Sws’ is notational swirl parameter
No., Fluid with
3=4 h1 þ 0:01 Y 4 i1=4
Sws ¼ ReY Y6
Very High
Prandtl No.,
52 Eiamsa-ard and Air Turbulent Heating Wing Pitch Ratio: Double-Sided
  0:265
  0:516
Nu ¼ 0:101Re0:733 Pr0:4 ep ðew Þ0:287 (For T-W with back- f ¼ 0:898Re  0:094 ep
Promvonge [87] 0.75, 1.0 and 1.25, Delta-Wing Tape (For T-W with
ward wing arrangement) ðew Þ0:655
Wing Width Ratio: Insert with Alter-
0.5, 0.67 and 0.83, nate-Axes backward wing arrangement)

  0:283
  0:635
Reynolds No: 4000 – Nu ¼ 0:112Re0:731 Pr0:4 ep ðew Þ0:316 (For T-W with for- f ¼ 1:55Re  0:138 ep ðew Þ0:759 (For T-W with
20,000 ward wing arrangement) forward wing arrangement)

205
 206
Table 1 (continued )

Sl. No. Author & year Working fluid Flow type Heating/ Parameters Type Nusselt number Friction factor
cooling

  0:188
  0:198
Nu ¼ 0:128Re0:723 Pr0:4 ep ðew Þ0:318 (For T-WA with f ¼ 1:09Re  0:098 ep ðew Þ0:547 (For T-WA
backward wing arrangement) with backward wing arrangement)

  0:198
  0:198
Nu ¼ 0:139Re0:723 Pr0:4 ep ðew Þ0:339 (For T-WA with f ¼ 1:68Re  0:127 ep ðew Þ0:636 (For T-WA
backward wing arrangement) with backward wing arrangement)
53 Zhang et al. [90] Air Laminar Heating Clearance Ratio: Multiple Regularly Nu ¼ 2:0358Re0:2380 ða Þ0:0492 f ¼ 111:2919Re  0:7236 ða Þ0:6071
0.25, 0.3 and 0.35, Spaced Twisted (For triple twisted tapes) (For triple twisted tapes)
Reynolds No.: 300 – Tapes (‘aa’ clearance ratio of the twisted tapes (ratio of clearance
1800 of twisted tape to diameter of the tube))
Nu ¼ 1:5689Re0:2629 ða Þ  0:0773 f ¼ 181:5216Re  0:7320 ða Þ0:7234
(For quadruple twisted tapes) (For quadruple twisted tapes)
54 Eiamsa-ard et al. Hot Air and Turbulent Cooling Free space ratio: 1.0, Regularly-Spaced Nu ¼ 0:144Re0:697 Pr0:4 ðs þ 1Þ  0:179 f ¼ 3:044Re  0:00 y  0:556 ðs þ 1Þ  0:34

Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

[92] Cold Water 2.0 & 3.0, Reynolds Twisted Tapes
No.: 5000 and
12,000
55 Sharma et al. [98] Al2O3 Transition Heating Twist Ratio, Volume Al2O3 Nanofluid in Nu ¼ 3:138  10  3 ðReÞðPrÞ0:6 f ¼ 173Re  0:96 ð1 þ ϕÞ2:15
Nanofluid Concentration of Circular Tube with
0:03
2:15
1:0 þ H=D ð1 þ φÞ1:22 1:0 þ H=D
Nanoparticle, Rey- Twisted Tape
nolds No.
(0 o H/D o 15, 3500 o Re o 8500, 4.5 o Pr o 5.5, 35
o Tb o 40)
56 Wongcharee and CuO/Water Laminar Heating Twist Ratio: 3, Con- CuO/Water Nano- Nu ¼ 0:026Re0:927 Pr0:4 ð1þ ϕÞ0:128 f ¼ 4:487Re  0:297 ð1 þ ϕÞ0:101
S. Eiamsa-ard [99] Nanofluid centration of Nano- fluid and Twisted (For tube equipped with twisted tapes with alternate axis) (For tube equipped with twisted tapes with
particle, Reynolds Tape with Alter- alternate axis)
No.: 830 – 1990 nate Axis Nu ¼ 0:005Re1:062 Pr0:4 ð1þ ϕÞ0:112 f ¼ 3:234Re  0:308 ð1 þ ϕÞ0:082
(For tube equipped with typical twisted tapes) (For tube equipped with typical twisted tapes)
57 Maddah et al. Al2O3/water Turbulent Heating GPR, Volume Con- Al2O3/Water Nu ¼ 0:056Re0:72 Pr0:4 ð1þ πϕÞ2:75 f ¼ 0:375Re  0:24 0:6
ð1 þ 3πϕÞ
[102] nanofluid centration, Twist Nanofluid and  π 1:1 π
1þ GPR  0:75 1 þ 1:4 GPR  0:35
Ratio, Reynolds No.: Modified Twisted 2TR TR
5000 - 21,000 Tapes
(‘ϕ’: volume concentration, TR: Twist Ratio)

a
Analytical.
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 2. Microfin tube [12].
b = axial thickness
Pa = axial pitch
Pc = circumferential pitch
W = Fin width
e = Fin height
Fig. 3. Three dimensional internal extended surface [13].
Fig. 4. (a) Full length helical tape with a centred rod, (b) full length helical tape
without centred rod, (c) regularly spaced helical tapes without rod [17].
technique of using 3 DIEST tubes with twisted tape inserts to
increase heat transfer rate is suitable for laminar flow of highly
viscous fluid flowing through tube. Also, there was found a small
increase in heat transfer for transitional and turbulent flow but
friction factor increases considerably.
An experimental study was carried out by Saha et al. [14] to
investigate pressure drop and heat transfer characteristics in a
circular tube equipped with regularly spaced twisted tape inserts
(made up of stainless steel). Viscous fluid having laminar swirl
flow was used with an intermediate Prandtl number range of
205 o Pro518. The regularly spaced twisted tapes of different rod
diameters, tape width and phase angle between successive tapes
elements were used to produce swirl. The reduction in tape width
was not found beneficial since no satisfactory results were
obtained. The study concluded that increase of phase angle
between two successive tapes do not give effective results but
increases manufacturing complexities.
Ujhidy et al. [15] studied experimentally the laminar flow
through coils and tubes having twisted tapes and helical static
elements. The results showed that there is an existence of
207
Helical screw elements with increasing twist ratio [19]
Helical screw elements with decreasing twist ratio [19]
Fig. 5. (a) Helical screw elements with increasing twist ratio [19] (b) helical screw
elements with decreasing twist ratio [19].
Fig. 6. Conical ring turbulator and twisted tape [23].
Fig. 7. Helical tapes [25].
secondary flow in channel between tube wall and surface of the
helical element. Flow visualisation analysis and measurements
based on laser technology was also carried out. A good match was
found between measured data and data obtained from numerical
calculations. Also, a modified Dean number was proposed to study
comparison between the flow pattern of developed secondary
stream lines in coils and flow patterns in tubes equipped with
twisted tapes and helical static elements.
Yilmaz et al. [16] performed an experimental investigation to
study the effects of geometry of deflecting element on heat
transfer and friction factor characteristics in radial guide vane
swirl generators. Three different configurations of radial guide
vane swirl generators based on deflecting element viz. swirl gen-
erator with conical deflecting element, swirl generator with
spherical deflecting element and swirl generator with no element;
were used in the study. On the basis of heat transfer and friction
characteristics, all three swirl generators were compared with
each other. From the results, it was observed that swirl generator
with no deflecting element yields highest Nusselt number and
pressure drop in swirl generator as well as in test pipe. The study
also concluded that swirl generator with no deflecting element
may be beneficial in terms of enhancement of heat transfer and
energy saving as compared to swirl generator having deflecting
element. Correlations were developed for Nusselt number for
different swirl generators (listed in Table 1).
208 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Helical screw inserts of twist ratio 1.95 [26]
Helical screw inserts of twist ratio 2.93 [26]
Helical screw inserts of twist ratio 3.91 [26]
Helical screw inserts of twist ratio 4.89 [26]
Fig. 8. (a) Helical screw inserts of twist ratio 1.95 [26]. (b) helical screw inserts of
twist ratio 2.93 [26]. (c) helical screw inserts of twist ratio 3.91 [26]. Fig. 8(d) helical
screw inserts of twist ratio 4.89 [26].
Eiamsa-ard and Promvonge [17] carried out an experimental
investigation to study heat transfer enhancement in double pipe
heat exchanger tube equipped with helical tapes; inserted to
obtain swirl flow which leads to enhancement of heat transfer
rate. The range of Reynolds number considered was 2300–8800.
The inner tube was equipped with different helical geometries viz.
full length helical tape with centred rod, full length helical tape
without centred rod and regularly spaced helical tapes without
centred rod (shown in Fig. 4(a)–(c)). Hot air was allowed to pass
through the inner tube while cold water through the annulus.
Experimental results were compared with plain tubes data and it
was found that heat transfer rate in tubes with helical tapes was
higher than that of plain tube. Also, the highest heat transfer rate
was obtained for full length helical tapes with centred rod but
with increase in pressure drop. However, different free spacing
ratio (space to tape ratio) was analysed to minimise this problem.
Flow patterns inside the tube equipped with helical tapes were
studied using visualisation technique.
Naphon [18] performed an experimental study to determine
heat transfer characteristics and pressure drop in horizontal dou-
ble pipes equipped with twisted tapes having length and thickness
2000 mm and 1 mm respectively. The results showed a significant
enhancement in heat transfer characteristics with twisted tape
insert accompanied with some pressure drop. New correlations
based on experimental results were also proposed to determine
friction factor and heat transfer coefficient for Reynolds number
range 7000–23,000 and twist ratio 3.1–5.5 (Table 1). The results
from the developed correlations were compared with the experi-
mental results and comparison shows that most of the data of heat
transfer coefficient and friction factor falls within the range of
715% and 710% respectively.
Sivashanmugam and Suresh [19] carried out an experimental
investigation to study heat transfer and friction factor character-
istics of laminar flow through circular tube equipped with full
length helical screw elements. The study was carried out using
different twist ratios 1.95, 2.93, 3.91, 4.89 shown in Fig. 5(a and b).
The experimental results were compared with the data obtained
from plain tube and it was found that both Nusselt number and
friction factor increases with twist ratio but there was no notice-
able increase in the magnitude of heat transfer coefficient with
decreasing and increasing order of twist ratios. This is because of
same intensity of swirl generated at inlet and outlet in both the
cases in order of increasing and decreasing of twist ratio. New
empirical correlations for Nusselt number and friction factor were
also introduced (listed in Table 1). The deviation between
experiment results and results obtained from the developed cor-
relations found to be 715% for Nusselt Number and 7 13% for
friction factor respectively.
Sivashanmugam and Suresh [20] performed an experimental
study to analyse heat transfer characteristics and friction factor of
circular tube equipped with full length helical screw tapes inserts
with spacer length 100, 200, 300 and 400 mm under the condition
of laminar flow with uniform heat flux. Also, the full length helical
screws were having four different twist ratios 1.95, 2.93, 3.91 and
4.89. The experimental results showed that Nusselt number for
helical twists decreases within 10% for each 100 mm successive
increase in spacer length. The decrease in friction factor at low
Reynolds number was found just about two times lower than that
with full length helical twist whereas at high Reynolds number the
decrease in friction factor was four times lower than that with full
length helical twist at all twist ratio. The study concluded that
regularly spaced helical screw inserts are safe and useful to
increase heat transfer rate without much rise in pressure drop
compared to full length helical screw inserts.
Chang et al. [21] performed an experimental study in a new
type of broken twisted tape and found improvement in perfor-
mance using broken twisted tape in comparison of smooth twisted
tape equipped in pipe. Experiments were carried out to study heat
transfer and pressure drop coefficients for tube equipped with
broken twisted tape inserts. The twist ratios of the broken twisted
tape considered for study were 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5 and 1. The range of
Reynolds number selected for the study was 1000–40,000. From
the results, thermal performance, heat transfer coefficients and
mean Fanning factor were found 0.99–1.8, 1.28–2.4 and 2.0–4.7
times respectively those of the tube equipped with smooth twis-
ted tape. On the basis of experimental data, empirical correlations
were developed for local Nusselt number and Fanning friction
factor (Table 1). The study concluded that the broken twisted tapes
inserts accomplished the requirement of heat transfer enhance-
ment and improvement in thermal performance factor.
Chang et al. [22] carried out an experimental investigation to
study compound heat transfer augmentation in a tube equipped
with serrated twisted tape inserts. In the study, comparison of
pressure drop, heat transfer characteristics and thermal perfor-
mance factor in the tubes equipped with smooth wall and serrated
tape was studied. Four different twist ratios 1.56, 1.88, 2.81 and 1
for smooth and serrated twisted tapes within the range of Rey-
nolds number 5000–25,000 were selected in the study. The ser-
rations on the two sides of twisted tapes were having ribs of
squared sectioned having same rib pitch and rib height. The
results showed that both local Nusselt number and Fanning fric-
tion factor increases when twist ratio of smooth or serrated
twisted tapes in the tube decreases. The study concluded that use
of serrated twisted taped is an effective method of heat transfer
enhancement. For the same twist ratio, smooth walled tube
showed high thermal performance factor than tube fitted with
serrated twisted tapes. New correlations were developed for
Nusselt number and Fanning friction factor for the developed flow
in smooth and serrated twisted tape (Table 1). The results from the
new correlations of Nusselt number and friction factor could
predict the correlated data within 8% and 15% deviations
respectively.
Promvonge and Eiasma-ard [23] carried out an experimental
study with two heat transfer enhancement devices equipped in a
circular tube. These devices were conical-ring turbulators and a
twisted-tape swirl generator fitted inside the circular tube (shown
in Fig. 6). Air was used as a test fluid and the range of Reynolds
number selected in the experiment was 6000 to 26,000. Also, two
twist ratios 3.75 and 7.5 of twisted tape were selected in the study.
The results showed that Nusselt number and enhancement
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 100 mm spacer length [27]
Helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 200 mm spacer length [27]
Helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 300 mm spacer length [27]
Helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 400 mm spacer length [27]
Fig. 9. (a) Helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 100 mm spacer length [27].
(b) helical screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 200 mm spacer length [27]. (c) helical
screw having twist ratio 1.95 with 300 mm spacer length [27]. (d) helical screw
having twist ratio 1.95 with 400 mm spacer length [27].
efficiency for tube equipped with both conical-ring and twisted-
tape were found about 4% to 10% and 4% to 8% more than the tube
equipped with conical ring only. In addition to this, the twisted
tapes having twist ratio of 3.75 and 7.5 used in tube equipped with
both conical-ring and twisted-tape showed the average heat
transfer rates as 367% and 350% over the plain tube. New corre-
lations were also developed to determine Nusselt number, friction
factor and enhancement efficiency for both conical-ring and
twisted-tape equipped in a circular tube (Table 1). The results from
the developed correlations matched with experimental data
within 7 10% for Nusselt number and friction factor.
Mengna et al. [24] carried out an experimental investigation to
study heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of a
converging-diverging tube equipped with evenly spaced twisted
tapes. The range of Reynolds number selected in the study was
3400–20,000. Four different twisted tapes of twist ratio (y) and
rotation angle (θ) used in the experiment (y¼2.22, θ ¼180°),
(y ¼2.22, θ ¼270°), (y ¼ 4.72, θ ¼180°) and (y ¼4.72, θ ¼270°).
Experiments were also conducted on a smooth circular tube and
converging-diverging tube without twisted tapes for comparison.
The results showed that performance of twisted tape having twist
ratio 4.72 and rotation angle of 180° was found best among all
twisted tapes. Also, heat transfer efficiency index increased with
the increase of Reynolds number.
Gul and Evin [25] performed an experimental study on heat
transfer and friction characteristics in circular tubes equipped with
a short helical tape at entrance of the test section. The helical tape
at the entrance was used to generate turbulent swirl flow at
entrance. Fig. 7 shows the helical tape used in the study. Three
different types of helical tapes of helical angles 30°, 45° and 60°
were used in the experiments. The range of Reynolds number
selected in the study was 5000–30,000. The results showed that
high heat transfer rate was obtained by using helical tapes com-
pared to non-swirling flow. It was also found that the increase in
heat transfer is the function of momentum ratio (ratio of
momentum of the helical fluid to total momentum of the axial
flow) and Reynolds number. In addition to this, heat transfer
enhancement efficiency decreases with increase of Reynolds
number and increases with momentum ratio. The study also
concluded that depending upon the momentum ratio and Rey-
nolds number at constant pumping power, enhancement of heat
transfer can be achieved up to 20% by using helical tapes.
Sivashanmugam and Suresh [26] carried out an experimental
study to determine heat transfer characteristics and friction factor
209
Fig. 10. Tube having twisted tape inserts and wire coil [28].
of circular tube equipped with full length helical screw tape
inserts. The study was performed with helical screw tapes of dif-
ferent twist ratios 1.95, 2.93, 3.91 and 4.89 and for increasing and
decreasing order of twist ratio set. The different helical screws
with different twist ratios were shown in Fig. 8(a), (b), (c) and (d).
Turbulent flow conditions with Reynolds number from 2700 to
13,500 were selected for the study. The results showed that
maximum value of Nusselt number is obtained with 1.95 twist
ratio and both heat transfer coefficient and friction factor increases
with the twist ratio. New correlations for Nusselt number and
friction factor in terms of Reynolds number and twist ratio were
developed (Table 1). The deviation between the data obtained
from the developed correlations and experiment data was found
713% for Nusselt Number and 7 15% for friction factor. No
appreciable change in the magnitude of heat transfer coefficient
enhancement was found with decreasing and increasing twist
ratio, due to the same amount of swirl generated at inlet and
outlet in both the cases. Also, the maximum performance ratio was
found 2.05 with twist ratio of 1.95.
Sivashanmugam and Suresh [27] carried out an experimental
study to investigate heat transfer characteristics and friction factor
of circular tube equipped with full length helical screw tapes
inserts with spacer length 100, 200, 300 and 400 mm (shown in
Fig. 9(a), (b), (c) and (d)). Four different twist ratios 1.95, 2.93, 3.91
and 4.89 of helical screws were selected as shown in Fig. 8(a)–(d).
The study was carried out for turbulent flow condition with uni-
form heat flux. From the experimental results it was found that
Nusselt number decreases within 10% with spacer length for each
100 mm successive increase in spacer length. Also, the friction
factor decreases by 5% for each 100 mm successive increase in
spacer length. In addition to this, value of friction factor for helical
screws with 100 mm spacer length was found much closer to the
value of full length helical screws for all Reynolds numbers. The
study concluded that helical screws are useful for the enhance-
ment of heat transfer in turbulent flow only with less decrement
in pumping power. The decrease in Nusselt number and friction
factor was found to be 30–40% and 40–45% respectively for all
Reynolds number from twist ratio 1.95 to 4.89.
Also, new empirical correlations were developed for Nusselt
number and friction factor (listed in Table 1). The data from the
developed correlations were compared with the experimental
data within 710% and 7 20% for Nusselt number and friction
factor respectively.
Promvonge [28] carried out an experimental investigation to
study heat transfer and friction characteristics of turbulent flow
through a circular tube equipped with combined twisted tapes and
wire coils as shown in Fig. 10. The wire coil was fitted inside the
tube and act as a turbulator. The twisted tape was installed into
the wire to generate a continuous swirl flow the along wall of a
tube. The range of Reynolds number was 3000 to 18,000. The wire
coils used in the experiment was of three different spring pitch
210 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 11. (a) In line rib arrangements (b) staggered rib arrangement, Pongjet et al.
[32].
Fig. 12. Micro finned tube [33].
Fig. 13. Twisted tapes [33].
ratios (ratio of pitch of coil spring to wire thickness) 4, 6 and
8 whereas twisted tapes of two different twist ratios 4 and 6 were
selected. The results of the experiment were compared with the
results obtained from twisted tape or wire coil alone. It was found
from the results that heat transfer enhancement obtained by using
both twisted tapes and wire coils together was double than that
obtained with twisted tape or wire coil alone. It was also found
that the use of both twisted tapes and wire coils together with
smaller pitch and twist ratio yields higher heat transfer as com-
pared to larger pitch and smaller ratios if operating under same
conditions. New correlations were introduced for Nusselt number
and friction factor for combined twisted tapes and wire coils and
are valid within 710% errors (Table 1).
Eiamsa-ard et al. [29] carried out an experimental study to
analyse Nusselt number, friction factor and enhancement effi-
ciency characteristics in turbulent region for a round tube equip-
ped with short length twisted tape inserts. The working fluid used
in the experiment was air and Reynolds number was varied from
4000 to 20,000. Full length twisted tapes of single twist ratio
Fig. 14. Left right twisted tapes [33].
4.0 were used inside the tested tube whereas short length twisted
tapes mounted on the test section at entry with different tape-
length ratios ‘LR’ (ratio of short length twisted tape to full length
twisted tape) of 0.29, 0.43, 0.57 and 1.0. The short length tape was
used to produce strong swirl flow at entry of the test section while
full length tape was introduced to develop strong swirl flow over
the entire tube. The results revealed that short length tape having
tape-length ratio 0.29, 0.43 and 0.57 yields lower value of
heat transfer and friction factor than full length tape (tape length
ratio 1). In addition to this, enhancement efficiency for short
length tapes was also lower than for full length tape. New corre-
lations of Nusselt number and friction factor were developed
(Table 1). The values obtained from the developed correlations
match with experimental data within 7 7% deviation.
Chang et al. [30] carried out an experimental investigation to
study flow structures heat transfer and pressure drop properties in
a plain tube and tube fitted with spiky twisted tape inserts (swirl
tube). The experimental analysis was performed using air-water
flows to study their thermal fluid performances. Air-water mass
flow ratio and superficial liquid Reynolds number were made the
controlling parameters in experiments. Also, the range selected for
air-water mass flow ratio and superficial liquid Reynolds number
in the experiments was 0.0004 – 0.01 and 5000 – 15,000
respectively. The scattered air bubbles were induced inside the
plain tube and rising of coalesced bubbled in the tube with spiky
twisted tapes had a considerable effect on the improvement of
heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics from single phase
conditions. New empirical correlations for Nusselt number with
maximum deviation of 7 20% were introduced (Table 1).
Thianpong et al. [31] performed an experimental investigation
to study friction and heat transfer characteristics in a dimpled tube
equipped with a twisted tape. The experiments were carried out
for two dimpled tubes with different pitch ratios (pitch of dimple/
tube diameter) of 0.7 and 1. Twisted tapes of three different twist
ratios 3, 5 and 7 were selected and the range of Reynolds number
selected for fully developed flow was 12,000  44,000. Experi-
ments were also carried out in plain tube and dimpled tube acting
alone for comparison. From the experimental results, it was found
that friction factor and heat transfer coefficient for a tube equip-
ped with twisted tape was higher than those obtained for plain
tube and dimpled tube acting alone. Also, the friction factor and
heat transfer coefficient in the dimpled tube fitted with twisted
tape increase with decrease of twist ratio and pitch ratio. Corre-
lations were developed for heat transfer coefficient and friction
factor for dimpled tube equipped with a twisted tape (Table 1).
The data from the developed correlations fitted with the experi-
mental results within 7 10% for Nusselt number as well as for
friction factor.
Promvonge et al. [32] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer and friction characteristics for air flow
through high aspect ratio channel equipped with triangular rib as
well as winglet type vortex generator. The experimental tests were
carried out in turbulent flow regime with Reynolds number ranges
from 5000 – 20,000. Two different rib arrangement viz. in-line and
staggered arrays (shown in Fig. 11(a) and (b)) were studied. In
order to generate a longitudinal vortex flow through test section,
two pairs of winglet type vortex generators with angle of attack
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
60°, 45° and 30° are introduced at entrance of the test duct. The
results showed that there is considerable effect of introducing of
both triangular rib and winglet type vortex generator on heat
transfer and friction characteristics over the smooth channel. It
was also found out that Nusselt number and friction factor
obtained for combined triangular rib and winglet type vortex
generator was higher than those for rib or winglet type vortex
generator alone. Also, the in line rib arrangement showed high
values of friction factor and Nusselt number compared to stag-
gered rib arrangement under same test conditions. The study
concluded that these compound turbulators are best operated at
low angle of attack and low Reynolds number.
Nagarajan et al. [33] carried out an experimental study on heat
transfer and friction characteristics of turbulent flow through
micro-finned tube equipped with full-length twisted tape and left-
right twisted tape inserts shown in Figs. 12–14. The twist ratios
selected in the study were 7.44, 8.27 and 11.17. The results showed
that increase of heat transfer coefficient for a given twist ratio was
higher for left-right twisted tapes as compared to full-length
twisted tapes. The correlations were introduced for friction fac-
tor and Nusselt number for twisted tape inserts (Table 1). The
results from the developed correlations of Nusselt number and
friction factor were compared with experimental data within
73.6% and 77% respectively (Table 1). Also, correlations of Nus-
selt number and friction factor were introduced for left-right
inserts (Table 1) and their results were compared with experi-
mental data within 7 2.5% and 7 8.5% respectively. In addition to
this performance analysis showed maximum performance ratio
with twist ratio of 7.44 for twisted tape inserts and left right
inserts was 1.49 and 1.82 respectively.
Fig. 15. Twisted tape having wire nails studied by Murugesan et al. [36].
PT-A: Peripherally-cut twisted
tapes with alternate axis
PT: Peripherally-cut twisted
tapes
TT: Typical twisted tapes
y: Twist length
W: Width of twisted tape
δ: Thickness of twisted tape
Fig. 16. Twisted tape studied by Seemawute and Eiasma-ard [37].
211
Eiamsa-ard et al. [34] performed an experimental study on heat
transfer, friction and thermal performance factor in a round tube
equipped with peripherally cut twisted tape inserts. Experiments
were conducted with nine different peripherally cut twisted tapes
with the same twist ratio of 3.0 and three different tape depth
ratios of 0.11, 0.22 and 0.33 and each with three different tape
width ratios of 0.11, 0.22 and 0.33. The water was used as working
fluid and the range of Reynolds number was 1000 – 20,000. Also,
friction factor was calculated under isothermal condition whereas
the heat transfer rate was determined under uniform heat flux
condition. The results showed that heat transfer and friction factor
for tube fitted with peripherally cut twisted tape was considerably
higher than those for tube having typical twisted tape and plain
tube. The study revealed that the main reason of this enhance-
ment was the generation of high intensity turbulence of fluid at
vicinity of wall of tube due to peripherally cut twisted tape as
compared to typical twisted tape. It was also found that heat
transfer enhancement increases with decrease of width ratio and
increase of depth ratio.
Murugesan et al. [35] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer, friction factor characteristics and thermal
performance factor for a double pipe heat exchanger equipped
with square-cut twisted tapes and plain twisted tapes. The
working fluid used was water and range of Reynolds number
chosen was 2000–12,000. The square-cut and plain twisted tapes
considered in the study were having twisted ratios of 2.0, 4.4 and
6.0. The results showed that heat transfer, friction factor and
thermal enhancement factor for tube with square-cut twisted
tapes were considerably higher than those with plain twisted
tapes. The higher generation of additional disturbance and sec-
ondary flow at vicinity of tube wall using square-cut twisted tape
was considered for getting better performance. New empirical
correlations of Nusselt number and friction factor were introduced
for square-cut twisted tapes and plain twisted tapes (Table 1). The
values from developed correlations match with experimental data
within the range of 7 6% for Nusselt number and 7 8% for fric-
tion factor.
Murugesan et al. [36] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer, friction factor characteristics and thermal
performance factor for double pipe heat exchanger fitted with
plain twisted tapes and twisted tape having wire nails (shown in
Fig. 15). The twist ratios of twisted tapes were 2.0, 4.4 and 6.0.
Water was considered as working fluid and the range of Reynolds
number selected was 2000–12,000. The results showed that
Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal performance factor for
tube with twisted tape having wire nails were considerably higher
Fig. 17. (a) Single twisted tape (b) full length dual twisted tapes tested by Eiamsa-
ard et al. [38].
212 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
than those for tube with plain twisted tape and plain tube. The
study concluded that the combined effects of common swirling
flow caused by plain twisted tapes and additional turbulence
generated by the wire nails are the main reason for better per-
formance of twisted tapes with wire nails. New empirical corre-
lations of Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal enhance-
ment factor were introduced for twisted tapes having wire nails
(Table 1). The values from developed correlations match with
experimental data within the range of 7 9% for Nusselt number
and 7 10% for friction factor.
Seemawute and Eiasma-ard [37] carried out an experimental
study on heat transfer characteristics for turbulent flow through a
circular tube equipped with peripherally-cut twisted tape with
alternate axis. Experiments were also conducted on peripherally-
cut twisted tape and typical twisted tape in similar conditions for
comparison. Fig. 16 shows peripherally-cut twisted tape,
peripherally-cut twisted tape with alternate axis and typical
twisted tapes tested in the study. Water was used as testing fluid
and range of Reynolds number selected in the experiment was
from 5000 to 20,000. The enhancement of heat transfer in tube
equipped with peripherally-cut twisted tape with alternate axis,
peripherally-cut twisted tape and typical twisted tape was found
184%, 102% and 57% respectively than that with the plain tube. Also
maximum thermal performance obtained from the peripherally-
cut twisted tape with alternate axis, peripherally-cut twisted tape
and typical twisted tape at constant pumping power was 1.25, 1.11
and 1.02 respectively. Correlations were developed to determine
Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal performance for
peripherally-cut twisted tape with alternate axis (Table 1). The
deviation between the results obtained from the above correla-
tions and experimental results of Nusselt number, friction factor
and thermal performance was found to be 7 8%, 7 4% and 7 3%
respectively.
Eiamsa-ard et al. [38] performed a comparative experimental
study on heat transfer enhancement for a round tube equipped
Fig. 18. Perforated twisted tapes with parallel wings [40].
with single twisted tape, full length dual and regularly-spaced
dual twisted tapes under uniform wall heat flux conditions. Fig. 17
(a) and (b) shows single twisted tape and full length dual twisted
tape. The range of Reynolds number selected in the experiment
was 4000–19,000. The twist ratios of single twisted tape and full
length dual twisted tape were 3.0, 4.0, and 5.0. Also, the twist
ratios of regularly-spaced dual twisted tapes were 0.75, 1.5 and
2.25. It was found that the use of dual twisted tapes in tube gives
higher heat transfer as compared to plain tube with or without
single twisted tapes. The Nusselt number and friction factor
increases with the decrease in twist ratio for single twisted tapes
and full length twisted tapes. The study also concluded that the
use of dual twisted tapes with free spacing gives low heat transfer
enhancement as compared to the full-length twisted tapes. New
correlations were introduced for Nusselt number and friction
factor for single twisted tape inserts and dual twisted tapes ele-
ments in tandem (Table 1). In addition to this, following correla-
tions were also developed for enhancement efficiency.
For single twisted tape inserts:
η ¼ 2:4Re  0:08 y=w  0:2 ð1Þ
For dual twisted tapes elements in tandem:
η ¼ 1:9Re  0:05 y=w  0:08 1:5 s=D þ 1  0:034 ð2Þ
where (y/w) is twist ratio and ‘s’ is free spacing length and ‘D’ is
inside diameter of test tube.
Wongcharee and Eiamsa-ard [39] carried out an experimental
investigation to study thermohydraulic characteristics of laminar
swirl flow through circular pipes fitted with alternate clockwise
and counter-clockwise twisted tapes or twisted tapes with alter-
nate axis (TA). Three different twist ratios (3, 4 and 5) of twisted
tapes were selected and the range of Reynolds number in the
experiments was 830 – 1990. The working fluid in the experi-
ments was water. The experiments were also done with plain tube
and tube fitted with typical twisted tapes (TT) for comparison. The
result showed that pipes fitted with alternate clockwise and
counter-clockwise twisted tapes yields higher value of Nusselt
number, friction factor and thermal performance factor than that
fitted with typical twisted tapes. Also, the twisted tapes having
twist ratio 3 (smallest twist ratio among all twisted tapes) was
found more efficient for the enhancement of heat transfer. The
study concluded that both alternate clockwise and counter-
clockwise twisted tapes and typical twisted tapes are promising
for enhancement of heat transfer in the studied Reynolds number
range. New correlations were introduced for Nusselt number and
friction factor for alternate clockwise and counter-clockwise
Fig. 19. Center-cleared twisted-tape used by Saha et al. [43].
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 20. Classic twisted tapes tested by Karami et al. [45].
Fig. 21. Square-cut circular ring insert [46].
twisted tapes (TA) and typical twisted tapes (TT) (Table 1). Also,
following correlations were developed for thermal performance
factor:
For alternate clockwise and counter-clockwise twisted tapes
(TA):
η ¼ 0:024Re0:754 y=W  0:296 ð3Þ
For typical twisted tapes (TT):
 cleared twisted-tape and having integral axial rib roughness
η ¼ 0:005Re0:907 y=W  0:296
The values from developed correlations match with experi-
mental data within the range of 7 8% for Nusselt number, 7 5%
for friction factor and 78% for thermal performance factor.
Thianpong et al. [40] carried out an experimental investigation
to study pressure drop and heat transfer characteristics in turbu-
lent flow for a heating tube fitted with perforated twisted tapes
with parallel wings (Fig. 18). The range of Reynolds number con-
sidered was 5500–20,500. The wings of twisted tape had an
advantage of producing more turbulence near tube wall to affect
the thermal boundary layer. Wing depth ratio of 0.11, 0.22 and 0.33
and hole diameter ratio of 0.11, 0.33 and 0.55 were studied
experimentally. Also, holes present with a core tube were useful to
reduce the pressure drop. Experiments were also conducted with a
typical twisted tape. The results showed that the enhancement of
heat transfer for tubes with perforated twisted tapes with parallel
wings and typical twisted tape was found respectively 208% and
190% more than that of plain tube. In addition to this, flow
visualisation was also performed with the help of dye injection
technique.
Murugesan et al. [41] performed an experimental analysis to
study heat transfer, thermal performance factor and friction factor
characteristics in a plain circular tube and circular tube equipped
with V-cut twisted tape inserts. Three twisted tapes of different
twist ratios 2.0, 4.4 and 6.0 were considered. Also, three different
combinations of depth ratio (ratio of depth of V-cut to tape width)
and width ratio (ratio of width of V-cut to tape width) 0.34 and
0.43, 0.34 and 0.34, 0.43 and 0.34 were selected in the study. The
results showed that both mean Nusselt number and mean friction
factor increases with increase in depth ratio and decrease in width
ratio and twist ratio. New correlations were obtained for Nusselt
number and friction factor for plain tubes equipped with V-cut
twisted tapes (Table 1). The data from the developed correlations
for tubes equipped with V-Cut twisted tapes fitted with the
213
Fig. 22. rectangular cut twisted tape tested [48].
experimental results within 7 6% for Nusselt number and 7 10%
for friction factor.
Chang and Guo [42] performed an experimental study to
investigate heat transfer, pressure drop characteristics and thermal
performance factors for tubular flows using continuous and spiky
twisted tapes. The twisted tapes were tested at seven different
flow conditions with Reynolds number ranges from 1000 to
40,000. Suitable type of twisted tape which gives high heat
transfer enhancement over developing and developed flow was
identified. The study revealed that V-notched spiky twisted tape
provides highest heat transfer enhancement among all twisted
tapes. In addition to this, empirical correlations to determine
Nusselt number and friction factor for the enhanced tubular flows
using all types of twisted tapes were discussed.
Saha et al. [43] carried out an experimental investigation to
study thermohydraulics performance for laminar flow through a
circular duct equipped with centre-cleared twisted-tape and
having integral axial rib roughness. The centre-cleared twisted-
tapes of twist ratio 2.5 were selected in the study (shown in
Fig. 19). The results showed that the performance of duct with and
without center-cleared twisted tapes and integral axial rib for
laminar flow found better than duct only having a single
enhancement technique. New correlations were also developed for
Nusselt number and friction factor for both centre cleared centre-
ð4Þ
(Table 1).
Saha [44] carried out an experimental study on laminar flow
through a circular duct having axial corrugation and equipped
with centre-cleared twisted tape. The twist ratio of twisted tape
was 2.5 and the working fluid used was Servotherm medium oil of
Indian Oil Corporation limited having Prandtl number ranges from
320  545. The study concluded that the usage of both centre-
cleared twisted tape and axial corrugation gives better perfor-
mance than the single heat transfer enhancement technique for
laminar flow through a circular duct. Also heat transfer was
increased by 15-30% at constant pumping power. In addition to
this, pumping power was reduced by 15-25% at constant heat duty.
Correlations were developed for Nusselt number and friction fac-
tor for axial corrugation and equipped with centre-cleared twisted
tape listed in Table 1.
Karami et al. [45] performed an experimental and optimisation
study of heat transfer in an air cooled heat exchanger fitted with
classic twisted tape (shown in Fig. 20) inserts using Imperialist
Competitive Algorithm (ICA) method. The classic twisted tape was
having width of 15 mm and thickness of 1 mm. Four twisted tapes
of different twist ratio 1.76, 2.35, 2.94 and 3.53 were selected for
the experiments and the range of Reynolds number was 4021 to
16,118. New correlation was developed for Nusselt number in
terms of Reynolds number and twist ratio listed in Table 1. The
developed correlation was optimised using ICA method and the
optimisation results shows that the maximum value of Nusselt
number is obtained with twist ratio of 1.76.
Tan et al. [46] carried out an analysis to study heat transfer
enhancement in transitional and fully turbulent flow regimes for a
tube equipped with a square-cut circular ring inserts (Fig. 21). The
study introduced a new non-dimensionless group from the ana-
lysis of experimental results to quantify the role of insert on heat
transfer enhancement. It was shown that enhancement of heat
transfer rate is obtained by using inserts in the flow passages but
214 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

Fig. 24. Decreasing/increasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and twisted tape [54].
Fig. 23. Grooved tube studied by Bharadwaj et al. [51].

The results from the developed correlations were validated

different characteristics of the flow were induced in the transi- with the results obtained from experiments within 74% for
tional and turbulent flow regimes. Nusselt Number and friction factor and 72% for thermal perfor-
Bhattacharyya et al. [47] carried out an experimental study on mance factor values.
heat transfer characteristics for laminar flow through a circular Saha and Saha [50] performed an experimental investigation
tube having roughness of integral transfer rib and equipped with on heat transfer and friction characteristics for laminar flow of
centre-cleared twisted tapes. The centre-cleared twisted-tapes of viscous oil through a circular duct. The duct was having integral
twist ratio 2.5 and servotherm medium oil for obtaining wide helical rib roughness and equipped with helical screw-tape inserts.
Prandtl number ranges from 235-537; were selected in the study. The results showed that the use of both integral helical rib
The results showed that combination of integral transfer rib and roughness and helical screw-tape inserts is better than the indi-
centre-cleared twisted tapes is much more effective than the vidual technique for heat transfer enhancement acting alone. New
individual heat transfer enhancement technique for laminar flow correlations were also developed for Nusselt number and friction
through a circular pipe up to a certain extent of centre clearance. factor (listed in Table 1). The developed correlations were fitted
New correlations were also developed for Nusselt number and
with experimental data within 7 13.15%.
friction factor for both integral transfer rib and centre-cleared Bharadwaj et al. [51] carried out an experimental study on 75
twisted tapes, only centre cleared twisted tape and transverse rib start spirally grooved tube equipped with twisted tapes inserts
only (Table 1). The values from developed correlations support the shown in Fig. 23. Twisted tapes of twist ratios 10.15, 7.95 and
experimental data within 710.58%. 3.4 were selected for the study and the experiments were con-
Salam et al. [48] carried out an experimental study to analyse
ducted with both clockwise and anti-clockwise direction of twis-
heat transfer coefficient, friction factor and enhancement effi-
ted tapes with Reynolds number ranges in all laminar to fully
ciency for turbulent flow through a circular tube equipped with
turbulent flow. The results showed 400% and 140% of heat transfer
rectangular cut twisted tape inserts under uniform heat flux
augmentation in laminar and turbulent flow respectively for spi-
condition. Fig. 22 shows rectangular cut twisted tape considered in
rally grooved tube without twisted tapes inert. In addition to this,
the study. The working fluid used in the study was water and the
heat transfer enhancement of 600% and 140% was found in lami-
range of Reynolds number was 10,000 – 19,000. Also, twist ratio of
nar and turbulent region respectively when the spirally grooved
5.25 is selected for the experiments. The results showed that
tube was equipped with twisted tapes. Also, it was found that the
values of Nusselt number and friction factor for tube equipped
thermo-hydraulic performance is affected by the direction of
with rectangular cut twisted tape were found respectively 2.3 –
twisted used. Another important result obtained in the study was
2.9 times and 1.4 – 1.8 times more than those of smooth tube. In
reduction in heat transfer for Reynolds number range 2500 o Re
addition to this, it was found that heat transfer enhancement
o 9000. The clockwise twisted tape having twist ratio of 7.95 gave
efficiency increased with increase in Reynolds number within the
high heat transfer enhancement among all three types of twisted
range of 1.9 – 2.3.
tapes. Nusselt number and friction factor correlations were
Bhuiya et al. [49] carried out an experimental study to analyse
developed for grooved tube with twisted tapes (Table 1). The data
the heat transfer characteristics and flow friction for a turbulent
obtained from developed correlations supports the experimental
flow through a circular tube provided with perforated twisted
data within 715% and 7 10% for Nusselt number and friction
tapes. Four different twisted tapes were used of different poros-
factor respectively.
ities ‘Rp’ (1.6%, 4.5%, 8.9% and 14.7%) having corresponding pore
Eiamsa-ard and Promvonge [52] carried out an experimental
diameters 3, 5, 7, 9 mm respectively. The length, width and
investigation to study turbulent heat transfer and friction char-
thickness of the tapes were 1500 mm, 65 mm and 3 mm respec-
acteristics in a circular tube fitted with typical twisted tapes and
tively and twist ratio was 1.92. The results showed a considerable
alternate clockwise and counter clockwise twisted tapes. Nine
increase in heat transfer rate and friction factor when compared to
clockwise and counter clockwise twisted tapes of twist ratios 3.0,
the results of plain tube (without twisted tapes). The Nusselt
4.0 and 5.0 and each with three twist angles 30°, 60° and 90° were
number, friction factor and thermal performance factor of the tube
used in the study and the range of Reynolds number in the
fitted with perforated twisted tape was 340%, 360% and 59% higher
experiments was 3000–27,000. The experiments were carried out
than the values obtained with plain tube. The results also showed
using water as a working fluid under uniform heat flux conditions.
that effect of 4.5% porosity was more prominent among all por-
It was found from the results that alternate clockwise and counter
osities. New correlations were proposed for Nusselt number and
clockwise twisted tapes was showing high heat transfer
friction factor listed in Table 1. Also the following correlation was
enhancement and friction factor than typical twisted tapes under
developed for thermal performance factor:
same conditions. In addition to this, heat transfer rate increases
ηp ¼ 36:995:C:C 1 0:676 :Ref  0:000011y þ 0:000187y2  0:0008y  0:07168g
3
ð6Þ with decreasing twist ratio and increasing twist angle in clockwise
and counter clockwise twisted tapes. New correlations for Nusselt
where number and friction factor were developed for clockwise and
n o counter clockwise twisted tapes (listed in Table 1). Also, following
C ¼ 0:0002R3p  0:0046R2p þ 0:00334Rp þ 0:6569 correlation for heat transfer enhancement index was developed.
n o
  0:14
0:31
C 1 ¼  0:0027R3p þ0:0583R2p þ 0:0334Rp þ25:436 η ¼ 2:93 Res  0:1 y=w 1 þ sin θ ð7Þ
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 25. Single twisted tape (single swirl flow), twin co-twisted tape (co swirl flow)
and twin counter twisted tapes (counter-swirl flow) [59].
The results lie with in 7 15% for the developed correlations of
Nusselt number and friction factor.
Eiamsa-ard et al. [53] carried out an experimental study on
heat transfer and friction factor characteristics in double pipe heat
exchanger equipped with regularly spaced twisted tapes inserts.
Two different cases of twisted tape inserts were studied. In first
case, full length typical twisted tapes of twist ratios 6 and 8 were
fitted in tube and in other case twisted tapes with different free
space ratios 1, 2 and 3 were used. The results obtained from both
the cases were compared with those of plain tube. It was found
that heat transfer coefficient is increased in the tube equipped
with full length twisted tapes but in second case free space ratio
(S) in twisted tapes showed improvement in both friction factor
and heat transfer coefficient. New correlations of Nusselt number
and frictions were developed for twisted tapes with various free
space ratios within 7 15% (Table 1).
Eiamsa-ard et al. [54] carried out an experimental study on
heat transfer, friction characteristics and thermal performance
behaviour in a tube fitted with combined devices between the
twisted tapes and constant/periodically varying wire coil pitch
ratio. Two different twist ratios of twisted tapes and two different
arrangements of periodically varying three coil pitch ratios viz.
decreasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and decreasing/increasing
coil pitch ratio arrangement (shown in Fig. 24) were considered in
the study. The study has carried out in turbulent flow regime with
air as test fluid and the range of Reynolds number in the experi-
ments was 4600 – 20,000. It was found that highest thermal
performance factor was obtained with decreasing/increasing coil
pitch ratio arrangement with twisted tapes at low Reynolds
number. New correlations were presented for Nusselt number and
friction factor fitted within 7 3% with the experimental results
(Table 1).
Eiamsa-ard et al. [55] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer, friction and thermal performance factor
characteristics in a tube equipped with delta-winglet twisted
tapes. Two different arrangements viz. oblique delta-winglet
twisted tapes and straight delta-winglet twisted tapes were stu-
died. Twisted tapes of three different twist ratios 3, 4 and 5 and
three depth of wing cut ratio (ratio of depth of wing cut/tape
width) 0.11, 0.21 and 0.32 were used in the study. The working
fluid was water and range of Reynolds number was 3000–27,000.
The results showed that mean Nusselt number and friction factor
for delta-winglet twisted tapes increases with increasing depth of
215
Fig. 26. Copper square jagged twisted tape [60].
wing cut ratio and decreasing twist ratio. It was also found that
Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal performance factor for
oblique delta-winglet twisted tapes was higher than those for
typical twisted tapes. In addition to this, oblique delta-winglet
twisted tapes were found more effective as compared to straight
delta-winglet twisted tapes. New correlations were presented to
determine Nusselt number and friction factor for oblique delta-
winglet twisted tapes and straight delta-winglet twisted tapes
(Table 1). Also, following correlations for thermal performance
factor were developed:
For oblique delta-winglet twisted tapes:
η ¼ 2:04Re  0:042 Pr0:4 y=w  0:261 1 þ d=w 0:45 ð10Þ
For straight delta-winglet twisted tapes:
η ¼ 2:164Re  0:0435 Pr0:4 y=w  0:304 1 þ d=w 0:356 ð11Þ
The developed correlations for Nusselt number and friction
factor lies with experimental data within 710%.
Sarada et al. [56] carried out an experimental investigation to
study the heat transfer enhancement in a horizontal tube using
varying width twisted tape inserts. The twisted tapes used in the
study were of different twist ratio of 3, 4 and 5, each with five
different widths 10, 14, 18, 22 and 26 mm (full width). The working
fluid was air and the range of Reynolds number was 6000–13,500.
The results obtained were compared with plain tube results and it
was found out that heat transfer augmentation using twisted tapes
was 36 to 48% with 26 mm (full width) and 33% to 39% for reduced
width (22 mm) twisted tapes. Nusselt number and friction factor
correlations were presented for fully developed swirl flow for full
width and reduced with twisted tapes in terms of modified twist
ratio (H/w) listed in Table 1.
Ibrahim [57] carried out an experimental investigation to study
heat transfer and friction factor characteristics in the horizontal
double pipes of flat tubes equipped with full length helical screw
elements. The experiments were done with helical screw elements
of twist ratio 2.17, 3.33, 4.3, and 5 with different spacer lengths of
100, 200, 300, 400 mm to study the effect of twist ratio and spacer
length on heat transfer enhancement. The working fluid used in
tube side and shell side were cold water and hot water respec-
tively and the range of Reynolds number was 5.7  102 to
1.31  103. The results showed that Nusselt number and friction
factor decreases with increase of twist ratio or spacer length. The
experimental data of the tube were compared with those of plain
circular tube and found higher heat transfer and friction factor.
New correlations were presented for Nusselt number and friction
factor listed in Table 1. The data obtained from developed corre-
lations showed deviation with the experimental data within 7
10% and 7 8% for Nusselt number and friction factor respectively.
Rama Krishna et al. [58] carried out an experimental investi-
gation to study heat transfer characteristics of a circular tube
equipped with full twist inserts. The experiments were conducted
with straight full twist insert with different types of single direc-
tion and left–right direction. The results showed that Nusselt
number increases with decrease of spacer distance and the max-
imum value of Nusselt number was observed for the spacer dis-
tance of 2 in. but no considerable increase in Nusselt number was
there with decrease in spacer distance. Experiments were also
conducted with straight full twist inserts with 4 in. spacer distance
216 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
and same trend of increase of Nusselt number with Reynolds
number was found. The maximum performance ratio was
observed for each twist insert with Reynolds number of 2550.
Eiamsa-ard et al. [59] carried out an experimental study on
influences of counter/co-swirling flow turbulent heat transfer
augmentation in a tube equipped with twin twisted tapes. The
counter-swirl flow was induced using twin counter twisted tapes
whereas twin co-twisted tapes were used for generation of co-
swirl flow (shown in Fig. 25). The experimental investigation was
performed with twisted tapes of twist ratios 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and
4.0 and Reynolds number range of 3700–21,000 under uniform
heat flux conditions. The experiments were conducted with single
twisted tapes for comparison. It was found from the results that
Nusselt number, friction factor and heat transfer index increases
with decrease in twist ratio. Also, the heat transfer augmentation
in twin counter twisted tapes was found better than twin co-
twisted tapes and single twisted tapes. New correlations were
presented for Nusselt number and friction factor in twin counter
twisted tapes and twin co-twisted tapes (Table 1). The developed
correlations for Nusselt number and friction factor lies with
experimental data within 7 10% and 7 6% respectively. The fol-
lowing correlations of thermal enhancement index were given:
For twin counter twisted tapes:
 multiple twists in the module of the tape. The range of Reynolds
η ¼ 2:8Re  0:016 y=w  0:634 ð12Þ
For twin co-twisted tapes:
η ¼ 1:82Re  0:0186 y=w  0:38 ð13Þ
Gawandare et al. [60] carried out an experimental study on
heat transfer and friction factor characteristics of circular tube
equipped with full length copper square jagged twisted tapes (as
shown in Fig. 26). The experiments were conducted with water as
working fluid and twist ratios of twisted tapes were 5.2, 4.2, and
3.2. The range of Reynolds number was 5000 to 16,000. The results
showed a noticeable heat transfer augmentation due to twisted
tapes inserts. Also, the heat transfer enhancement increased with
decrease of twist ratio.
Patil [61] carried out an experimental study on heat transfer
and friction characteristics in laminar swirl flow of solution having
sodium carboxy methyl cellulose in water (pseudoplastic fluid
which is a power law fluid) through a circular tube fitted with
varying width twisted tapes. The varying width twisted tapes were
used to decrease the pressure drop in using full width twisted
tapes without any considerable effect on heat transfer enhance-
ment. The experiments were conducted in the range of Reynolds
number 10 to 500 and widths of twisted tapes were 23.8, 19.7, 16.5
and 11.0 mm under a condition of uniform wall temperature. It
was found that about 18-56% less isothermal friction than full
length twisted tapes was obtained using varying (reduced) width
twisted tapes. Also there was slight reduction in Nusselt number at
uniform wall temperature by 5-25% with twisted tapes of tape
widths 19.7 and 11.0 mm respectively. In addition to this, perfor-
mance of twisted tapes having tape width 19.7 mm was found
more or less like full width tapes at constant pumping power.
Nusselt number and friction factor correlations were presented in
terms of generalised Reynolds number and modified twist ratio
(y*) listed in Table 1. The data obtained from developed correla-
tions showed a good agreement with experimental data within
710% and 7 12% for Nusselt number and friction factor
respectively.
Saha and Dutta [62] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer and friction characteristics of laminar swirl
flow through a circular tube equipped with twisted tapes. The
experiments were conducted with short length, regularly spaced
twisted tapes and smoothly varying (reduced) pitch full length
Fig. 27. Square duct having axial corrugation [65].
twisted tape. The regularly spaced twisted tapes were having
number, Prandtl number and twist ratios of the twisted tapes were
45–1150, 205–518 and 2.50–10 respectively. Servotherm medium
oil was selected as working fluid, a viscous fluid for large Prandtl
number. The friction factor and Nusselt number of short length
twisted tapes were found lower than those for full length twisted
tapes. However, performance of short length twisted tapes was
found better than full length twisted tapes for tighter twists at
constant pumping power and heat duty. It was also found from
thermohydraulic performance that there is no much difference
between twisted tapes with multiple twists in the tape module
and twisted tapes with single twist in tape module.
Saha and Mallick [63] carried out an experimental study on
heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of a laminar flow of
viscous oil through horizontal rectangular and square ducts fitted
with twisted tapes. The experiments were conducted with full
length twisted tapes, short length twisted tapes and regularly
spaced twisted tapes. The range of twist ratios of the twisted tapes
used was 2.692  4.615 and the short length tapes were 0.9,
0.7 and 0.5 times the length of the duct. Also the space ratios were
in the range of 2.692 – 4.615 and the space ratios of the duct were
1, 0.5 and 0.333. The electrically heated stainless steel ducts were
used for heat transfer measurements whereas isothermal pressure
data were taken in acrylic ducts. The performance of short length
twisted tapes fitted in square and rectangular ducts was found
worse than full length twisted tapes. However, performance of
regularly spaced twisted tapes was better than full length twisted
tapes. The measurements showed that after some distance from
upstream end in regularly spaced twisted tapes the flow was
periodically fully developed and development length increases
with increase of Reynolds number, twist ratio, space ratio and
Prandtl number. Also in case of short length twisted tapes
decaying swirl flow was obtained. New correlations were devel-
oped for Nusselt number and isothermal friction factor within
720% deviation with experimental data for square and rectan-
gular ducts with full length twisted tapes, with short length
twisted tapes and with regularly spaced twisted tapes (Table 1).
Pramanik and Saha [64] carried out an experiment investiga-
tion on heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of laminar
flow through ducts having square and rectangular section with
transverse ribs turbulators and equipped with twisted tapes. Full
length, short length and regularly twisted tapes were used in the
study. The range of Reynolds number for the study was 25–1500
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 28. Helical strips with regularly cut passages [70].
and the twist ratio of the twisted tapes was 2.5. Experiments were
conducted with aspect ratios were 1, 0.5, 0.33 and space ratio
2.5 and 5.0. It was found that the use of combination of transverse
ribs with full length twisted tapes gives performance better than
either twist tapes or ribs when used alone. The study recom-
mended the use of regularly spaced and full length twisted tapes
with transverse tapes for laminar flow. However, short length
twisted tapes were not recommended. New correlations were
developed for Nusselt number and friction factor within 7 18%
deviation with experimental data for short length twisted tapes
with internal rib turbulators and regularly spaced twisted tapes
with internal rib turbulators (Table 1).
Saha [65] carried out an experimental investigation to study
heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of laminar flow
through ducts having square and rectangular section with com-
bined internal and axil corrugations on the duct surface and
twisted tapes with or without oblique teeth. A square duct with
axial corrugation is shown in Fig. 27. It was found that perfor-
mance of axial corrugations by using twisted tapes with or with-
out oblique teeth was better than either twisted tapes or axial
corrugations if used alone. On the basis of constant pumping cri-
terion, about 45% of heat transfer enhancement was found for
combined twisted tapes and axial corrugation in comparison with
twisted tapes or axial corrugation. Also on the basis of constant
heat duty, 30% reduction in the pumping power was found for
combined arrangement of twisted tapes and axial corrugation.
New correlations were developed for Nusselt number and friction
factor within 7 11% deviation with experimental data (listed in
Table 1).
Mazumder and Saha [66] carried out an experimental investi-
gation to study the thermohydraulic performance of turbulent
flow in square and rectangular ribbed duct fitted with twisted
tapes. Air was used as a working fluid within the range of mass
flow rate 0.722 – 6.851 kg/min. The twisted tape having twist ratio
of 2.5 (full length twisted tape, regularly spaced twisted tape and
short length twisted tapes) was selected for the study and range of
Reynolds number was 11,543–108,166. The results showed that
performance of combined use of twisted tape with transverse rib
in ducts was better than the ribbed ducts or twisted tapes if used
alone. New correlations were developed for Nusselt number and
friction factor for short length twisted tapes and regularly spaced
twisted tapes (Table 1). The developed correlations matched the
experimental data within 7 17%.
Rout and Saha [67] carried out an experimental study on heat
transfer and friction characteristics of laminar flow through a cir-
cular duct equipped with helical screw tapes and wire coil. Ser-
votherm medium oil was used as working fluid and the Prandtl
number range was 228–552. It was found out from the results that
the performance of helical screw tapes with wire coil was better
than either helical screw tapes or wire coil if used alone. As
compared to hydrodynamic boundary layer, the separation and
reattachment of thermal boundary layer was more frequent which
leads to more heat transfer with less increase of pressure drop.
New correlations were developed for Nusselt number and friction
factor of combined use of helical screw tapes and wire coil (listed
217
in Table 1). The data obtained from the developed correlations
matched the experimental data within 711.4%.
Klaczak [68] carried out an experimental study on heat transfer
characteristics of laminar flow through an air cooled vertical
copper pipe equipped with twisted tapes. Four twisted tapes of
different twist ratio 1.62–5.29 were studied in the range of Rey-
nolds number 110–1500. New correlations were developed to
estimate Nusselt number and friction factor for the pipe equipped
with twisted tapes listed in Table 1.
Murugesan et al. [69] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer, friction factor and thermal enhancement
factor in turbulent flow of a tube fitted with twisted tapes. Three
different types of twisted tapes viz. plain twisted tapes, vertical
wing cut twisted tapes and horizontal wing cut twisted tapes of
twist ratios 2.0, 4.4 and 6.0 were used in the study. The Reynolds
number range in the study was 2000–12,000 and water was used
as working fluid. The results showed that Nusselt number, friction
factor and thermal enhancement factor for horizontal wing cut
twisted tapes was higher than those for plain twisted tapes, ver-
tical wing cut twisted tapes. Nusselt number and friction factor
correlations were developed for plain twisted tapes, vertical wing
cut twisted tapes and horizontal wing cut twisted tapes in Table 1.
The results obtained from developed correlations matched the
experimental data within 77% and 7 5% for Nusselt number and
friction factor respectively.
Dhamane et al. [70] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer and friction characteristics in a circular pipe
fitted with helical strip inserts with regularly spaced cut passages
shown in Fig. 28. Three different types of helical strips with helix
angles 30°, 45° and 60° were used in the study and range of
Reynolds number was 5000–30,000. It was found from the results
that heat transfer rate was improved using the helical strips. This
was due to the turbulence in flow with swirling moment because
of the presence of helical strips.
Eiamsa-ard et al. [71] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer augmentation using helically twisted tape
inserts. The study was conducted using three different twist ratios
and helical pitch ratios viz. 2, 2.5 & 3 and 1, 1.5 & 3 respectively.
The range of Reynolds no. in the experimentation was 6000-
20,000. The helically twisted tapes were prepared by twisting a
straight tape to make a typical twisted tape then converting into
helical shape by bending. Lower values of Nusselt number and
friction factor were obtained using helically twisted tapes but
higher thermal performance factor than conventional helical tape.
New empirical correlations for Nusselt number and friction factor
was presented within 74% and 10% deviation with experimental
data (listed in Table 1). Also, following correlation for thermal
performance is also presented with 7 5% deviation:
η ¼ 3:377Re  0:148 ðy=WÞ0:091 ðp=DÞ0:317
Eiamsa-ard and Wongcharee [72] carried out an experimental
investigation to study heat transfer characteristics in micro-fin
tubes equipped with double twisted-tape inserts in three different
configurations. The experiments were conducted with Reynolds
number range 5650–17,000 under uniform heat flux condition.
The results showed that high heat transfer rate, friction factor and
thermal performance factor is obtained with the configuration in
which twisted tapes acted in opposite directions for counter swirl.
This is due to the induction of strong swirl flow/turbulence in this
configuration. Empirical correlations of Nusselt No. and friction
factor were also developed for all three configurations (listed in
Table 1).
Nanan et al. [73] carried out an experimental investigation to
study heat transfer enhancement by perforated helical twisted
tapes. The experiments were performed for Reynolds number
range 6000–20,000, diameter ratios (ratio of perforation diameter
218 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
p – pitch
e – depth
β – helix angle
Fig. 29. Helically corrugated tube tested by Laohalertdecha and Wongwises [77].
to tape width) of 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 and perforation pitch ratios (ratio
of perforation pitch to tape width) 1, 1.5 and 2. Also the helical
pitch ratio and twist ratio were 2 and 3 respectively. The results
found reduction in friction loss with the use of perforated helical
twisted tapes in comparison with typical helical twisted tapes.
Also, heat transfer, friction factor and thermal performance factor
increases with increase of perforation pitch ratio and decrease of
 ¼ ð15Þ
diameter ratio. Empirical correlations were developed for Nusselt
number and friction factor (listed in Table 1). The values from
developed correlations match with experimental data within the
range of 74% for Nusselt number and 76% for friction factor. The
following correlation for thermal performance factor is also
introduced within 73% deviations with experimental data:
η ¼ 4:058Re  0:145 ðd=wÞ  0:045 ðs=wÞ0:054
Pal and Saha [74] carried out an experimental study to analyse
heat transfer enhancement in a circular tube having integral spiral
corrugation roughness and equipped with twisted tapes with
oblique teeth. The experiments were performed for laminar flow
of viscous oil and twist ratio of the twisted tapes were 2.5 and 5.0.
The results showed that twisted tapes with oblique teeth with
integral spiral corrugation roughness gives better results for
laminar flow through a circular duct up to a certain value of fin
parameter. Correlations of Nusselt No. and friction factor were
developed for combined twisted tape with oblique teeth and
integral spiral corrugation roughness (listed in Table 1). The values
from developed correlations support the experimental data within
720%.
4. Studies of twisted tapes for refrigeration and solar
applications
Heating and Refrigeration are important applications of heat
transfer and increase in heat transfer rate in these systems leads to
the increase of the overall performance and effectiveness. Some
studies have been carried out to analyse the effect of twisted tapes
on heat transfer augmentation in evaporators and condensers for
refrigeration applications.
Akhavan-Behabadi et al. [75] carried out an experimental
investigation to study augmentation of heat transfer and pressure
drop characteristics in flow boiling of R-134a refrigerant inside the
evaporators equipped with twisted tapes. Twisted tapes of twist
ratios 6, 9 12 and 15 were used in the experiments with four
different mass velocities of refrigerant in the range of 54–136 kg/
s m2. The result shows that heat transfer coefficient is increased by
using twisted tapes as compared to plain flow (without twisted
tapes). The results showed that tape having twist ratio value of 15
gave high performance at low mass velocity whereas at high mass
velocities the performance of twisted tapes having twist ratio
7 and 12 was found the best. The following correlation was
developed to find out the performance twisted tapes with in 7
25% error.
hs
¼ 0:0056Re2:214 Bo1:532 y  0:5 þ 1:2156 ð14Þ
hp
‘hs’ and ‘hp’ are the heat transfer coefficients for twisted tapes and
plain flow respectively.
Akhavan-Behabadi et al. [76] carried out an experimental study
on heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics in swirl flow
boiling of R-134a in a horizontal tube equipped with twisted tapes.
The range of refrigerant mass velocity was 54–136 kg/m2 s and
twist ratios of the twisted tapes were 6, 9, 12 and 15. The twisted
tapes of different twist ratio were inserted inside the pipe one by
one. The range of Reynolds number of liquid and vapour were
1250–3500 and 41,000–96,000 respectively. It was found that the
heat transfer coefficient and pressured drop is increased due to the
twisted tapes. The following correlation was presented to estimate
the swirl pressure drop in the tubes:
ΔP s 5:1
ΔP P f ri y0:28
Here ‘ΔPs’ total pressure drop with twisted tape, and ‘ΔPp’ is the
pressure drop of plain flow.
The data obtained from the above correlation matched the
experimental data with 715% deviation.
Laohalertdecha and Wongwises [77] performed an experi-
mental investigation on heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop
for R134a flow through horizontal smooth tube and corrugated
tubes. In the test section, R134a flows through the inner tube
which was smooth tube and corrugated tubes of inner diameter of
8.7 mm whereas cooling water flow through the annulus, in a
2.0 m long counter flow concentric double tube heat exchanger.
Helically corrugated tube is shown in Fig. 29. The pitches of the
corrugated tubes were 5.08, 6.35 and 8.46 and the corrugation
depth was 1.5 mm. The results showed that there is a considerable
effect of corrugation pitches on the enhancement of heat transfer
coefficient and pressure drop.
Hejazi et al. [78] carried out an experimental study on the
enhancement of heat transfer and pressure drop characterises
during the condensation of a refrigerant (R-134a) in a tube of
double-tube counter flow heat exchanger equipped with twisted
tapes. The twisted tapes were made up of stainless steel with four
different twist ratios 6, 9, 12 and 15 and the range of refrigerant
mass velocity was taken as 56.44–130.9 kg/m2 s. The results were
compared with plain tube results and it was found out that the
twisted tape of twist ratio 6 gives maximum heat transfer
enhancement and high pressure drop. Also, the twisted tape
having twist ratio 9 gave the best heat transfer enhancement with
minimum pressure drop.
Another important area of heat transfer is solar thermal tech-
nologies where heat transfer rate can be enhanced with the help
of twisted tape inserts. Hobbi and Siddiqui [79] carried out a
comparative experimental investigation to study the effect of dif-
ferent heat transfer enhancement devices (twisted strip, coil-
spring wire and conical ridges) on thermal performance of a flat
plate solar collector. No appreciable difference was found in heat
flux to fluid of the collector. The study concluded that the applied
methods based on shear produced turbulence enhancement; are
not effective for heat transfer enhancement to the collector fluid in
flat plate solar collectors because of the reducing shear produced
turbulence by buoyancy forces.
Jaisankar et al. [80] carried out an experimental investigation to
study the heat transfer augmentation with twisted tapes with
spacer in a thermosyphon solar water heating system. In the study,
heat transfer and friction characteristics of a thermosyphon solar
water heating system equipped with full length helical twists,
twist equipped with rod and spacer at trailing edge were studied.
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Fig. 30. (a) Classic twisted tape, (b) Jagged twisted tape, (c) Butterfly with inclined
angle of 90° [86].
The study was conducted in typical sunny days and observations
were divided into two phase viz. phase 1 and phase 2. The
observations recorded from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM were considered
in phase 1 whereas those recorded from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM were
considered in phase 2. The twisted tapes were inserted with dif-
ferent rod and spacer length of 100, 200 and 300 mm for twist
ratio 3 and 5. The obtained results were compared with plane tube
solar collector under same conditions. The results showed the
reduction in Nusselt number for full length helical twists was
minimum in comparison with twist equipped with rod and it was
significant for twist equipped with spacer. The study concluded
that the overall performance of twist equipped with rod is better
than twist equipped with spacer. Correlations were developed for
Nusselt number and friction factor for twisted tapes with rod and
spacer in phase 1 and phase 2 (Table 1). The developed correla-
tions of Nusselt number for phase 1 and phase 2 showed agree-
ment with experimental data within 713.53% and 711.7%
respectively. And the correlations of friction factor for phase 1 and
phase 2 match with experimental data within 714.85% and
710.1% respectively.
Jaisankar et al. [81] carried out an experimental study on heat
transfer, friction factor and thermal performance characteristics of
solar water tube equipped with twisted tapes of various twist
ratios. The twisted tapes of twist ratio 3, 4, 5 and 6 were tested and
the range of Reynolds number was 3000 to 23,000. The obtained
results were compared with plain tube solar collector and it was
found that the heat transfer and pressure drop in solar collector
with twisted tapes were higher than those of plain tube solar
collector. Also, twisted tape of twist ratio 3 was found to enhance
heat transfer due to swirl generation. It was concluded that heat
transfer and pressure drop increases with decrease in the value of
twist ratio due to increase in swirl generation. The experimental
results were also validated with fundamental equations and the
deviation found in Nusselt number and friction factor was less
than 7 5.35% and 7 8.80% respectively. New correlations were
proposed for Nusselt number and friction factor listed in Table 1.
The data obtained from the developed correlations of Nusselt
number and friction factor showed deviation with experimental
data within 7 14.3% and 7 15.1% respectively.
Jaisankar et al. [82] carried out an experimental study on heat
transfer, friction factor and thermal performance characteristics of
a thermosyphon solar water heating system equipped with helical
and left-right twisted tapes of twist ratio 3. The swirl flow induced
in helical twisted tapes is unidirectional over the length whereas
swirl flow is bidirectional in left-right twisted tapes due to which
heat transfer and pressure drop is higher as compared to those
219
Fig. 31. (a) Backward wing arrangement (b) Forward wing arrangement (Eiamsa-
ard and Promvonge [87]).
with helical twisted tapes. The experimental data of heat transfer
and friction characteristics were verified using theoretical equa-
tions and deviations and found acceptable. Also the thermal per-
formance factor for left-right twisted tapes was found maximum
in comparison with helical twisted tapes.
5. Numerical Studies
In addition to the experimental studies several numerical stu-
dies on twisted tapes were also reported by the investigators. Ray
and Date [83] performed a numerical study on laminar flow and
heat transfer characteristics in square duct fitted with twisted
tape. Non-staggered non-orthogonal grid with complete pressure
correction algorithm was used to solve the transport equations.
The analysis of heat transfer characteristics was carried out under
constant wall heat flux conditions peripherally and axially. Cor-
relations were introduced for Nusselt number and friction factor
based on the predicted data with error of 7 10% (listed in Table 1).
Also, comparative studies were carried out on thermo-hydraulic
performance of square and circular duct equipped with twisted
tape of same twist ratio. The study concluded that considerable
improvements in heat transfer characteristics can be achieved
with square duct at smaller twist ratios and higher Prandtl
number.
Eiamsa-ard et al. [84] carried out a numerical investigation to
study thermal and fluid flow behaviour in a tube equipped with
loose fit twisted tapes in turbulent flow regime. The effect of tape
clearance ratio on flow, heat transfer and friction characteristics
was examined. The twist ratios of the twisted tapes were 2.5 and
5.0 and range of Reynolds number was 3000  10,000. The ana-
lysis was done by using finite volume method with standard k-ε
model, RNG (Renormalized Group) k–ε turbulence model, stan-
dard k–ω turbulence model and the Shear Stress Transport (SST)
k–ω turbulence model. The analysis showed that, results obtained
using SST k–ω turbulence model was found in good agreement
with measured data as compared to other models. Also, it was
found that the thermal performance factor is affected by tape
clearance ratios and tight fit twisted tapes (having 0.0 clearance
ratio) gave best thermal performance factor.
Lin et al. [85] carried out a numerical study on secondary flow
produced by the twisted tape in a circular tube. In the study,
intensity of secondary flow was particularised using cross-
averaged absolute vorticity flux in the main flow direction and
its relation with laminar convective heat transfer intensity was
studied. The results showed that averaged absolute vorticity flux
can be used to define intensity of secondary flow.
Shabanian et al. [86] performed an experimental and compu-
tational analysis to study friction and heat transfer characteristics
and thermal performance of an air cooled heat exchanger fitted
220 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225

RS-TT:
D = tube diameter Regularly
d = inner diameter of screw tape
Spaced Twisted
Tapes
d = outer diameter of screw tape
s = pitch of helical screw tape

Fig. 33. Regularly spaced twisted tapes tested by Eiamsa-ard et al. [92].

Fig. 32. Helical screw tape studied by Zhang et al. [91].
with three different types of tape insert. These inserts included
butterfly, classic and jagged twisted tapes. The butterfly inserts
were studied with inclined angles of 45°, 90° and 135° whereas
the twist ratio of classic and jagged twisted tapes were 1.76, 2.35,
2.94 and 3.53. Fig. 30(a), (b) and (c) shows classic twisted tape,
jagged twisted tape and butterfly with inclined angle of 90°. The
results showed that the butterfly inserts with inclined angle of 90°
yields maximum thermal performance factor within the selected
range of Reynolds number. In addition to this, the difference of
heat transfer rates for classic and jagged twisted tapes is reduced
by decreasing of twist ratio. Also, the Computational Fluid
Dynamics (CFD) technique was used for modelling and analysing
the obtained results. Method of moving frame of references (MFR)
technique was used for modelling of fan's rotation whereas RNG
k-ε method was used for predicting the effects of turbulence. Good
matches were found between predicted and experimental results
for Nusselt number and friction factor.
Eiamsa-ard and Promvonge [87] carried out an experimental
investigation to study the convective heat transfer, friction char-
acteristics and thermal performance factor for turbulent flow
through a heat exchanger tube equipped with straight tape with
double sided delta wings (T-W) and T-W with alternate axis (T-
WA). The experiments of T-W and T-WA were performed at three
different wing width ratios (ratio of wing width to tape width) of
0.5, 0.67 and 0.83 and wing pitch ratios (ratio of pitch length of
wing to tape width) of 0.75, 1.0 and 1.25. In addition to this, the
heat transfer coefficients in forward and backward arrangements
of T-W were also studied (Fig. 31(a) and (b)). The range of Rey-
nolds number selected in the study was 4000–20,000. The result
showed that the enhancement of Nusselt number and friction
factor for T–W was found up to 165% and 14.8 times that of plain
tube. The maximum thermal performance factor for T-W was
found to be 1.19. It was also found that, heat transfer rate for T-W
with forward wing arrangement yields higher than backward wing
arrangement. The study concluded that friction factor and heat
transfer rate of T-WA was higher than those of T-W. Numerical
analysis of T-W tube with backward wing and forward wing was
also carried out. Correlations were introduced for Nusselt number
and friction factor Table 1). The following correlations were
developed for thermal performance factor:
For T-W with backward wing arrangement:

η ¼ 2:48Re  0:096 ep  0:086 ðew Þ0:064 ð16Þ
For T-W with forward wing arrangement:

η ¼ 2:66Re  0:099 ep  0:078 ðew Þ0:087
For T-WA with backward wing arrangement:
η ¼ 3:02Re  0:011 ep  0:198 ðew Þ0:135
For T-WA with backward wing arrangement:
  0:198
η ¼ 2:98Re  0:107 ep ðew Þ0:111
The results from the developed correlations match with
experimental data within 7 7%, 7 8% and 7 3% for Nusselt
number, friction factor and thermal performance factor respectively.
Wang et al. [88] performed a numerical study using CFD
modelling on configuration optimisation of turbulent flow heat
transfer for a circular tube equipped with regularly spaced short-
length twisted tape. Air was selected as a working fluid. Twist
ratio, free space ratio and rotated angle were considered as con-
figuration parameters. The study concluded that twist ratio is a
critical influencing factor for flow resistance characteristics in
regularly spaced short-length twisted tape. From the results, it was
found out that computational results supported experimental data
in a well manner. Also, a high heat transfer and flow resistance
were obtained with larger rotated angle.
Guo et al. [89] carried out a numerical study to compare heat
transfer and thermohydraulic performance for centre-cleared
twisted tape and short width twisted tape in laminar tubular
flow. The results showed that heat transfer and thermohydraulic
performance is reduced by cutting off the edge of short width
twisted tapes but heat transfer in centre-cleared twisted tape can
be improved by providing a suitable centre clearance ratio. As
compared to conventional twisted tape, the thermal performance
factor is improved by 7-20% for the tube equipped with centre-
cleared twisted tape. The study concluded that, use of centre-
cleared twisted tape is an effective method to enhance convective
heat transfer in laminar tubular flow.
Zhang et al. [90] carried out a numerical study on thermal and
fluid flow characteristics in a tube equipped with triple and
quadruple twisted tapes. A simulation was carried out to analyse
multi-longitudinal vortices formed in the tube due to the presence
of triple and quadruple twisted tapes. The work has been carried
out for the Reynolds number ranges from 300 – 1800. The result
showed that maximum increase of Nusselt number for triple and
quadruple twisted tape was found to be 171% and 182% respec-
tively. Friction factor for the tube having triple and quadruple
twisted tapes was found about 4.06-7.02 times that of plain tube.
Also the results verified the theory of heat transfer augmentation
in the core flow of tube. Nusselt number and friction factor cor-
relations were presented for triple and quadruple twisted tapes
(Table 1).
Zhang et al. [91] performed a numerical three dimensional
turbulence analysis to study heat transfer and fluid flow char-
acteristics for helical screw tape without core rod inserts. Fig. 32
shows helical screw tape tested in the study. The analysis was
performed by two performance criterions viz. physical quantity
synergy principle and minimal entropy generation principle. Four
different widths 7.5 mm, 12 mm, 15 mm and 20 mm were con-
ð17Þ sidered in the study for different inlet flow rates within the range
from 200 to 500litres/h. The results showed an increase in average
overall heat transfer coefficients and friction factor in circular
ð18Þ tubes equipped with helical screw tapes. The numerical analysis
also concluded that the physical quantity synergy analysis is
showing agreement with entropy generation principle analysis
and both are effective principles for enquiring the heat transfer
ð19Þ enhancement mechanism.
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
Eiamsa-ard et al. [92] carried out a comparative experimental
study on heat transfer, friction factor and thermal performance
factor in a heat exchanger fitted with regularly spaced twisted
tapes (Fig. 33). Experiments were also conducted with full length
twisted tapes of twist ratio 6.0 and 8.0. Regularly spaced twisted
tape were tested with two twist ratio of 6.0 and 8.0 and three free
space ratio (‘s’) of 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0. The range of Reynolds number
selected in the study was 5000 – 12,000. The results revealed that
both heat transfer rate and friction increases with decrease of
twist ratio and space ratio. It was observed that heat transfer,
friction factor and thermal performance factor for full length
twisted tape were higher than regularly spaced twisted tapes with
different space ratios. This was because of generating more con-
sistent swirling flow and turbulence. Also, a numerical study was
formed to analyse fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics of
tube having regularly spaced twisted tapes. SIMPLE algorithm with
RNG k-ε turbulence model was used to solve equations. New
correlations of Nusselt number and friction factor were developed
(listed in Table 1). The, following correlation for thermal perfor-
mance factor was introduced:
η ¼ 3:854Re  0:151 y  0:043 ðs þ 1Þ  0:065
The values obtained from developed correlations match
experimental data within 7 5%, 7 7% and 7 3%, respectively.
6. Studies with nanofluids
The use of nanofluids for heat transfer enhancement is
becoming popular and several studies have been carried out on
nanofluids with twisted tapes. Nanofluids are having small parti-
cles of size in nanometres with good thermal conductivity and
heat transfer coefficient [93]. Chandrasekar et al. [94] presented a
review on the mechanisms proposed through experimental stu-
dies for alteration of forced convection heat transfer characteristics
and thermophysical properties of nanofluids. The study concluded
that still there is no exact mechanism for alteration of heat transfer
characteristics and thermophysical properties. The study also
recommended a complete investigation on the effect of various
proposed mechanisms. Another study was presented by Syam-
sundar and Singh [95] on the availability of correlations to deter-
mine Nusselt number and friction factor of nanofluids flowing
through plain tube with different types of inserts. The study
recommended the need of further investigations to develop gen-
eralised correlations of Nusselt number and friction factor for
nanofluids flowing through tubes with inserts.
Raja Sekhar et al. [96] carried out an experimental investigation
to study heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics for various
volume concentrations of Al2O3 nanofluids through a pipe equip-
ped with twisted tapes. The experiments were carried out at low
Reynolds number (800-2200) with water and water based Al2O3
nanofluids. The results showed that the values of heat transfer
coefficient for nanofluids were found higher than those for water.
Also the highest value of friction factor was obtained with nano-
fluid of 0.5% particle concentration in comparison with water. The
study concluded that enhancement of heat transfer takes place
with the increase in Reynolds number and particle concentration.
Waghole et al. [97] performed an experimental study on heat
transfer and friction characteristics with different volume for flow
through tube of absorber/receiver of parabolic trough collector
having twisted tapes and no twisted tape inserts. Experiments
were conducted using silver nanofluid and water. The range of
Reynolds number considered was 500 – 6000 and twist ratios of
the twisted tape was considered within the range of 0.577 – 1.732.
The results revealed that use of twisted tapes inserts yields con-
siderable heat transfer enhancement in absorber. Also, for volume
221
concentration range 0  0.1% of silver nanofluid, the friction factor
and heat transfer coefficient was found higher as compared to
water flow through tubes of absorber/receiver. In addition to this,
values of friction factor, Nusselt number and efficiency enhance-
ment were found to be 1.0  1.75 times, 1.25 – 2.10 times and
135%  205% more compared to absorber/receiver with plain tube
(without twisted tape).
Sharma et al. [98] carried out an experimental investigation to
study heat transfer and friction characteristics in the transition
range of flow of Al2O3 nanofluid through a tube and equipped with
twisted tape inserts. It was obtained from the results that con-
vective heat transfer coefficient was increased in Al2O3 nanofluid
flow as compared to water flow. Also, heat transfer and pressure
drop results obtained for the flow of nanofluid through tube
equipped with twisted tapes of various twist ratios deviates from
the values determined by using equations of single phase flow.
New equation was developed to determine Nusselt number for the
transition flow of nanofluid as well as water through a circular
plain tube and tube equipped with twisted tape. The correlation
was presented to predict the friction factor in transition region
ð20Þ (Table 1).
Wongcharee and Eiamsa-ard [99] carried out an experimental
investigation to study heat transfer, friction characterises and
thermal performance of CuO/water nanofluid in laminar flow
regime in a circular tube fitted with modified twisted tapes with
alternate axis. The twist ratio of the twist tapes was 3 and the
range of Reynolds number in the experiments was 830-1990. Also,
the volume concentration of the CuO/water nanofluid was varied
in the range of 0.3  0.7%. In addition to this, nanofluid with
typical twisted tapes, twisted tapes with alternate axis alone and
typical twisted tapes alone were studied. The Nusselt number and
friction factor data of base fluid in a plane tube were considered as
reference data. The results showed that, increasing Reynolds
number and concentration of nanofluid leads to increase in Nus-
selt number. The combined use of nanofluid and twisted tapes
with alternate axis enhanced the Nusselt number about 13.8 times
that of the plain tube. The maximum thermal performance factor
was obtained with combined use of CuO/water nanofluid and
twisted tapes with alternate axis at 0.7% concentration of nano-
fluid and 1990 Reynolds number. New empirical correlations were
developed for Nusselt number and friction factor (listed in
Table 1). The following correlations were developed for thermal
performance factor:
For tube equipped with twisted tapes with alternate axis:
η ¼ 0:027Re0:693 1 þ ϕ 0:094 ð8Þ
For tube equipped with typical twisted tapes:
η ¼ 0:006Re0:832 1 þ ϕ 0:085 ð9Þ
The data obtained from the developed correlations showed a
good agreement with the experimental data within 7 4% for
Nusselt number, 7 1% friction factor and 72% for thermal per-
formance factor.
Eiamsa-ard and Wongcharee [100] carried out an experimental
study to analyse heat transfer enhancement of of CuO/water
nanofluids in micro-fin tube fitted with dual twisted tapes. The
experiments were performed with CuO/water nanofluids having
concentrations between 0.3% and 1.0% by volume and Reynolds
number range 5650 – 17,000. The results found increase of heat
transfer rate with increase of nanofluid concentration. Also
microfin tube equipped with dual twisted tapes showed high
thermal performance factor.
Mohammed et al. [101] carried out a numerical study on
thermal and flow fields for various types of nanofluids flowing
through a circular double pipe heat exchanger equipped with
222 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
1.6
1.4
1.2
Overall enhancement Ratio
1 Combined Non-Uniform Wire Coil and Twisted Tape (For
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
0 5000
Fig. 34. Overall enhancement ratio vs. Reynolds number for different twisted tape geometries.
louvered strip inserts. Finite volume Method (FVM) was used to
solve continuity, momentum and energy equations. The range of
Reynolds number selected in the study was 10,000 to 50,000 and
two different forward and backward arrangements of louvered
strip inserts were studied. This study also used four different types
of nanoparticles viz. Al2O3, CuO, SiO2 and ZnO of different dia-
meters in the range of 20 nm to 50 nm with different fractions
volume in the range of 1 to 4%. The different nanoparticles were
dispersed in water and acting as the base fluid. The result showed
heat transfer enhancement of 367% to 411% with forward louvered
strip arrangement at the highest slant angle and lowest pitch of
30° and 30 mm respectively. The highest value of Nusselt number
was obtained by SiO2 nanofluid followed by Al2O3, ZnO, CuO and
pure water. The increase of Nusselt number was found on
decreasing the diameter of nanoparticle. It was also found out that
Nusselt number slightly increases with the increase in volume
fraction of nanoparticle.
Maddah et al. [102] carried out an experimental investigation
on heat transfer enhancement of Al2O3/water nanofluid in a hor-
izontal double pipe heat exchanger equipped with modified
twisted tapes. The study was done under turbulent flow condi-
tions (Reynolds no. range 5000–21,000) with different geometrical
progression ratio (GPR: ratio of pitch length along the twist) of
twists. It was found in the results that heat transfer rate and
friction factor with twisted tape and nanofluids are respectively;
1.03 to 4 and 1.4 to 2.8 times those in the plain tube. Following
correlations for Nusselt number, friction factor and thermal per-
formance factor were developed (listed in Table 1).
7. Discussions
The thermohydraulic performance of twisted tapes was studied
by various investigators in different flow characteristics i.e. lami-
nar and turbulent flow and the performance in laminar flow was
found more effective than turbulent flow. Also, more pressure
drop was associated with the use of twisted tapes in turbulent
flow. Apart from circular cross-section, studies were carried out on
Regularly-Spaced Twisted Tapes [96]
Double-Sided Delta-Wing Tape Insert with Alternate-Axes (Forward
wing Arrangement) [91]
Horizontal Wing-Cut Twisted Tapes [75]
Twin counter twisted tapes [64]
oblique delta-winglet twisted tapes [60]
decreasing/increasing coil pitch ratio arrangement and twisted
tape) [59]
Alternate Clockwise [57]
and Counter-Clockwise Twisted-Tape
V-Cut Twisted Tape [45]
Dual twisted tapes elements in tandem [42]
Peripherally-Cut
Twisted tape with an Alternate Axis [41]
Twisted Tape Consisting of Wire-Nails [40]
Square-Cut Twisted Tape [39]
Twisted Tape and Wire Coil Turbulators [31]
Combination of Conical Ring and Twisted Tape [25]
10000 15000 20000 25000
Re
rectangular and square ducts and more augmentation was found
due to high surface to volume ratio. The past studies also show
more heat transfer enhancement with smaller twist ratios. The
generation of swirl flow using twisted tapes with other geometries
is useful to maximise Nusselt number. Thermohydraulic perfor-
mance also depends on the geometry of twisted tapes. A lot of
modification on simple twisted tapes was done by researchers and
found improvements in their results.
Fig. 34 is prepared to show the variation of overall enhance-
ment ratio with Reynolds no. for some twisted tapes geometries
suggested by various investigators. All values in the graph are
calculated for Reynolds no. range 4000– 20,000 and twist ratio 3.
The overall enhancement ratio is obtained using the following
relation:
Nu=Nup
 1=3
f =f p
‘Nu’ and ‘f’ are the values of Nusselt no. and friction factor with
twisted tapes and calculated using the empirical correlations
developed by the investigators whereas the ‘Nup’ and ‘fp’ are the
values for plain tube (without twisted tapes) and calculated using
correlations for plain tube proposed by the corresponding inves-
tigators. Also, the optimum value of different parameters of the
twisted tapes like twist angle, depth of wing cut ratio, space ratio,
depth ratio, width ratio, pitch ratio etc. are selected. It can be
observed from the graph that for different twisted tapes, almost
similar trend in variation of overall enhancement ratio is obtained
with Reynolds no. The trend of the different curves shows
decrease of overall enhancement ratio with increase of Reynolds
no. Some twisted tape geometries viz. twin counter twisted tapes,
peripherally cut twisted tapes with an alternate axis, combination
of conical ring and twisted tapes and regularly spaced twisted
tapes shows rapid decrease of overall enhancement ratio with
Reynolds number. However high values of overall enhancement
ratio are obtained from these twisted tape geometries at low
Reynolds no. Overall it can also be observed that the overall
enhancement ratio is better in the lower values of Reynolds no.
 Varun et al. / Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews 63 (2016) 193–225
This can be attributed to the increase of pressure drop associated
with twisted tapes in higher values of Reynolds no.
Twisted tapes work comparatively better in laminar flow due to
efficient mixing of bulk flow. Also at high range of Prandtl number,
significant increase of Nusselt number with minimum increase of
friction factor is generally not obtained. Many studies on com-
parison of short- length and full length twisted tapes found
comparatively better performance of short length twisted tapes
under the criterion of constant pumping power. In case of turbu-
lent flow, twisted tapes do not perform well over wide range of
Reynolds number. Large pressure drop is obtained due to blockage
of flow in turbulent flows. Some previous studies also reported
good performance of short length twisted tapes than full length
twisted tapes in turbulent flows.
There are other passive techniques like wire coil inserts, dimple
fins ribs etc. for heat transfer enhancement but these are found
efficient in turbulent flows. Wire coil inserts work better in tur-
bulent flow and having better thermohydraulic performance than
twisted tapes. However in laminar flow the performance of wire
coil inserts depends on Prandtl number [3].
8. Conclusion
It is observed from the previous studies that use of twisted
tapes in heat exchanger systems is quite effective method of heat
transfer augmentation. Increase of Nusselt number, friction factor
and thermal performance is reported by using twisted tapes
inserts but accompanied with some pressure drop. A lot of
experimental and numerical research studies have been per-
formed on heat transfer augmentation using twisted tape inserts.
Different types of geometries have been tested to check the heat
transfer augmentation and many useful correlations to determine
heat transfer and friction characteristics were developed. Geo-
metry of pipe/duct and twisted tapes, flow characteristics are the
major factors to control the thermohydraulic performance.
Some new techniques like pinching of twisted tapes, broken
twisted tapes, introduction of nanofluids etc. are also being
introduced by the researchers and scientists to develop and pro-
mote the twisted tape techniques. Studies have also been reported
the use of twisted tapes in areas like refrigeration, solar thermal
technologies etc. Twisted tapes are also found useful in micro-
filtration of milk where they found as low pressure loss turbulence
promoter [103]. In addition to this, the use of twisted tapes with
nanofluids and other geometries is also found very useful. How-
ever, more future work in this area will be very effective to develop
this technology and more generalised useful correlations will be
obtained.
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