Comparison of a Pin-Fin and Straight-Fin Heat Sink

Abstract

This study compares the thermal performance and efficiency of pin-fin and straight-fin heat sinks of similar dimensions, focusing on their application in electronics cooling. The analysis evaluates key parameters, including heat dissipation rate, pressure drop, and material utilization, under identical operating conditions. Pin-fin heat sinks exhibit enhanced heat transfer capabilities due to increased turbulence and a larger surface area exposed to airflow, making them ideal for high-performance cooling. In contrast, straight-fin heat sinks offer lower pressure drops and are more cost-effective to manufacture, favoring applications where energy efficiency and simplicity are critical. The findings aim to guide the selection of heat sink designs for optimized thermal management in various engineering applications.