An experimental study of gas–solid flow around helically finned tube

An experimental study on anti-wear and anti-ash-deposition character of helically finned tubes in a gas–solid two-phase flow has been undertaken with the help of a three-dimensional dynamic analyzer (PDA). Profiles of particle concentration, velocity and diameter are observed. The profiles of velocity and concentration are parabolic in shape, which can reduce the impact effect of the particle to the surface. And the helical fins guide particles flowing parallel to them, which helps to improve the ability to anti-wear. In addition, the parallel flow component is expected to increase the self-cleanness ability of the tested helically finned tube because of its wash-out effect. Thus the tested helically finned tube should possess good ability of anti-wear and anti-ash-deposition.