Polyhedral array heat transfer tube

Abstract: A heat exchanger tube that comprises a tubular member having a longitudinal axis and having an inner surface that is divided into at least two regions along the circumferential direction. A first plurality of polyhedrons are formed on the inner surface along at least one polyhedral axis. Each of the polyhedrons have four opposite sides. The polyhedrons have first and second faces that are disposed parallel to the polyhedral axis and have third and fourth faces disposed oblique to the polyhedral axis. The polyhedral axis is disposed at a first helical angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tube. A second plurality of polyhedrons is formed on the inner surface adjacent to the first plurality of polyhedrons. The second plurality of polyhedrons is disposed along at least one polyhedral axis. Each of the polyhedrons has four opposite sides. The polyhedrons have first and second faces disposed parallel to the polyhedral axis and have third and fourth faces disposed oblique to the polyhedral axis. The polyhedral axis is disposed at a second helical angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the tube. The orientation of the second helical angle is opposite to the orientation of the first helical angle.