A non-isothermal, two-dimensional T-junction operating at a low value of momentum flux ratio has been experimentally investigated. Mean and fluctuating measurements of temperature, coupled with a spectral analysis, have been used to characterise the dynamics of the flow for different flow conditions. A higher cooling effectiveness was found for the higher value of the Reynolds number due to an earlier development of large-scale structures. Heat transfer coefficients obtained employing the cross-flow temperature as a reference displayed an unusual behaviour. A better strategy was also proposed, taking into consideration the possible choices for the reference temperature. (C) 2007 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.