Basic measurements on a multiple heat pipe

A multiple heat pipe which is a specially formed long heat pipe that fulfills the function of several single heat pipes was studied. The suitability of this arrangement for a heat exchanger was investigated. Several laboratory models were manufactured from corrugated tubes and their behavior was measured. Results show that the serpentine model exhibits the expected heat exchange properties. When subjected to severe operating conditions, the pipes remain operational, although somewhat limited in performance. The results are in function of the nature of the exchange media (air-air, air-water, water-water). This corrugated heat pipe design shows good promise for successful further development into an air-air heat exchanger.