Comparative CFD Analysis of Cylindrical, Oval, and Finned Tubes for Thermosiphons

Maravi H.K.H.; Almidon N.E.A.; Contreras A.J.A.; Montesinos J.F.P. · SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering (2026) · DOI: 10.14445/23488352/ijce-v13i1p111

Resumen

The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the geometric impact on the thermal performance of solar thermosiphon tubes through the use of parametric modeling and CFD simulation. To achieve this purpose, three configurations were designed: cylindrical, oval, and with longitudinal fins, and the constant internal volume was maintained to ensure comparable conditions. The models in this paper were developed in the Autodesk Inventor software and then integrated into Autodesk CFD in conditions of average solar irradiance (850 W/m²) and laminar internal flow. The key variables of these results, such as maximum temperature, total heat flow, pressure drop, and internal thermal distribution, were analyzed. The outcomes of the performed analysis show that the finned model is the one with the highest thermal efficiency due to the increased exchange surface area, while the oval design presents an offer with a more homogeneous distribution that does not affect hydraulic behavior significantly. In addition, the cylindrical configuration, although less thermally efficient, permits maintaining a more stable flow profile, and this feature is relevant in passive, pump-less applications. This work presents a technical alternative for residential buildings that has the characteristic of being a low-cost and replicable one, and this viable option combines structural design, thermal analysis, and architectural functionality in areas with a high rate of solar radiation.

Instituciones: Universidad Continental