Abstract
In this paper three flow-modeling strategies are employed to study the evolution of the threedimensionalturbulent flow characteristics and heat transfer mechanisms with the Reynolds numberin staggered plate arrays: steady RANS, steady laminar and the LES approach. In the RANS modelingframework keε realizable, keu SST and RSM turbulence models are used. This paper also compares theaccuracy of RANS and laminar steady models with LES simulation for 300 < Re < 9000 which correspondsto the Reynolds number range encountered in offset strip fins (OSF) heat exchangers. Analysis ofnumerical results from global and local points of view shows great dispersion especially in the transitionalflow regime. Moreover the RANS turbulent model that produces the best predictions cannot beknown a priori.