A comparison of the performance of constant and dual height pin fins in phase change material cooling technique
Abstract This experimental study explores the passive cooling of electronic devices using phase change materials (PCM). Pin fins configurations made of aluminium are considered as thermal conductive enhancers and eicosane as the PCM for the study. The experiments are carried out for five different heat fluxes ranging from 1.17 kW/m2 to 2.35 kW/m2 corresponding to a power level of 4 W to 8 W. The effect of number of fins, type of fins and volumes of PCM has been reviewed. It has been observed that the introduction of fins enhances the heat transfer and more elongation in operational time is achieved in case of dual height heat sinks. Also, volume of PCM, number of fins and heat fluxes directly affect in maintaining the device within a favorable temperature range. All the experiments are performed in a temperature controlled room to avoid environment fluctuation.