Fin apparatus for enhancing heat transfer surfaces

Abstract

A system includes a fin apparatus that is installed on a heat transfer medium pipe using thermally conductive mastic (heat transfer compound) and bands for holding the components in place. The system further includes a tank containing material of high viscosity, primarily Polymer Modified or Ground Tire Rubber Asphalts (PMAs and GTRs), that requires heating. The fin apparatus increases the surface area of the heat transfer medium piping and increases the effectiveness of the heat transfer that takes place between the medium and the high viscosity material. There is a need for the fin apparatus because to date, traditional fin designs are prone to fouling and decreased performance when used with high viscosity materials like PMAs and GTRs.

1 . A system comprising:
 a. A heat transfer medium pipe;   b. A fin apparatus secured to the pipe via a plurality of spaced securing bands, the fin apparatus comprising
 i. An extended fin surface, and 
 ii. A portion at the base of the fin contoured to well fit the heat transfer medium pipe; 
   c. Thermally conductive mastic (heat transfer compound) between the contoured base of the fin apparatus and heat transfer medium pipe to promote conductive heat transfer between the pipe and fin apparatus;   d. A viscous material (process) in contact with the fin apparatus   e. Wherein, so as to maximize surface area and promote convective heat transfer, the fin surface profile has a wave patterned profile between the fin base and the fin tip.   
     
     
         2 - 35 . (canceled)