Electrohydrodynamic enhancement of heat transfer

An apparatus for electrohydrodynamic (EHD) augmentation of heat transfer with a working fluid comprising:

• a heat transfer surface, said surface being formed with fins extending from a side of said surface for contact with the working fluid, said fins defining a channel having confronting sidewalls;
• an elongated, electrically conductive electrode disposed in the channel in relatively closely spaced relation between the sidewalls for carrying a current and producing an electric field when energized for interacting with the heat transfer surface and working fluid to enhance heat exchange with the surface;
• and
• at least one insulator disposed about the electrode for engaging the channel in longitudinal spaced locations therealong, said insulator for supporting the electrode in closely spaced standoff relation with the sidewalls sufficient for preventing excessive current flow between the electrode and the heat exchange surface through the working fluid, and the longitudinal spacing of the insulator facilitating convective and conductive heat transfer of the working fluid with the surface.