Proposes some ideas and methods for performance improvement of plate fin-and-tube heat exchangers - side staging, fin width extension and partial cutting of fins. Also discusses the effect of front staging, which has been used for years. Describes a series tests to determine heat exchanger performance to observe frost formation, and clarifies the effects of these methods.

KEYWORDS: Flat plate heat exchangers, finned tube heat exchangers, heat exchangers, frost, performance, fins.

Units: SI