Water cooler radiator with unusual air flow direction

In summary, the "Water cooler radiator with unusual air flow direction" refers to a cooling system design where the air flow is directed in a non-standard manner, potentially enhancing cooling efficiency or altering thermal dynamics. This innovative approach may improve performance in specific applications, offering advantages over traditional radiator designs.
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pozsar
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TL;DR Summary
searching for pre manufactured radiator suitable for airflow from the 'side surface'
Hi everyone!

I'm doing a DIY project in which I have to use air cooling to regulate water temperatures of max 90°C. I want to use some cheap (possibly even used) pre-manufactured radiator to do the job for me (since I'm unable to make finned pipes with tight enough fittings to provide sufficient heat conduction between the tube and sheets), but I have environment constraints that make it impossible to channel the air through the largest surface like automotive radiators do (pic 1). I have to direct air through the 'side surface' (pic 2). I simply need long parallel aluminum sheets with tubes going through them. The dimensions of the radiator are planned to be roughly 50x500x700mm and the inner diameter of the tube should be ~10mm. I have been searching through the internet for days, but I'm not happy with my results. The best match at the moment is some oil cooler radiator which I find unnecessarily high in quality for my application (pic 3).
How can I find a radiator that is suitable for this? In what field do they use such radiators?
 

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  • #2
You could use a 25 mm thick heat exchanger and mount it at an angle similar to the heat exchanger I built for heating my shop as shown in the photo below. The photo does not show the spreader vanes inside the transition piece between the blower and the heat exchanger plenum. Look for automotive heat exchangers - radiators, air conditioner condenser heat exchangers, oil coolers, or possibly heater cores.

Heat Exchanger.jpg
 
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  • #3
Welcome to PF.

Consider a bare 10 mm tube, without fins, folded back and forth across the airflow many times. Place the tube in a zig-zag-ing across the airflow, from the outlet of the air to the inlet, as a counterflow heat exchanger.

Now consider doing the same with finned tube, designed for use as a heat exchanger in an air compressor or a refrigerator. If the bend radius is too tight, use separate 180° elbows on either side.

It could be bent from a single tube, as a two layer structure, like a helix, flattened, skewed and staggered, to fit in the rectangular box.
 
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  • #4
Welcome, @pozsar !

I hope that you are aware of the air cooling effect being quickly reduced downstream.
What is moving the air?
 

FAQ: Water cooler radiator with unusual air flow direction

What is a water cooler radiator with unusual air flow direction?

A water cooler radiator with unusual air flow direction refers to a cooling system where the airflow pattern is different from the conventional front-to-back or bottom-to-top directions. This could mean air flows side-to-side or in a reverse manner, which can impact the cooling efficiency and overall system performance.

Why would someone use a water cooler radiator with an unusual air flow direction?

Using a water cooler radiator with an unusual air flow direction can be beneficial for specific case designs or setups where traditional airflow patterns are not feasible. It can also help in optimizing cooling performance by directing heat away from critical components or improving airflow in confined spaces.

How does the unusual air flow direction affect cooling performance?

The effect on cooling performance varies depending on the specific design and implementation. In some cases, it can improve cooling efficiency by better distributing heat and preventing hotspots. However, it can also potentially reduce performance if the airflow does not adequately remove heat or if it disrupts the overall airflow dynamics within the system.

Are there any special installation considerations for water cooler radiators with unusual air flow direction?

Yes, there are special installation considerations. It is important to ensure that the radiator is positioned in a way that aligns with the intended airflow pattern. Additionally, the surrounding components and case design must be taken into account to ensure optimal airflow and prevent obstruction. Proper sealing and insulation may also be necessary to prevent air leaks and maintain efficient cooling.

Can I modify a standard water cooler radiator to have an unusual air flow direction?

Modifying a standard water cooler radiator to have an unusual air flow direction is generally not recommended, as it can compromise the integrity and performance of the cooling system. It is better to purchase a radiator specifically designed for the desired airflow pattern to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

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