Comparison of Standard and Heat-Pipe Fins with Specified Tip Temperature Condition

Analytical expressions for heat-pipe fin temperature distribution and efficiency were obtained for a fin with uniform cross-sectional area, convection, thermal conductivity, and where the fin-tip temperature is specified. The results were compared to a standard (solid conductor) fin. It was observed that under most conditions, the heat-pipe fin would have a higher efficiency than a geometrically similar standard fin. The important parameters needed to compare the two types of fins are presented.