Modeling and simulation based on computational hydrodynamics and heat transfer for metal structured packed bed are carried out to predict the flow field and temperature field, and to evaluate its performance in transport aspect. The comparison between the simulation results for the metal structured packed bed and the experimental heat transfer performance as well as pressure drop of the conventional pellet packed bed is made, which quantitatively validates that transport performance of the metal structured packed bed is much better. Furthermore, the effects of geometric parameters and the property of solid phase on heat transfer of the metal structured packed bed are discussed. It is found that at low Re, the specific surface area is a key factor to determine the heat transfer capability of the structured bed. However, when Re turns to be high, the property of solid phase and voidage of the structured packed bed will play an important role in the evaluation of its heat transfer. In light of above results, some feasible methods are available to enhance the heat transfer performance. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.