Free Man is correct, fluting does increase rate of cooling, rate of heating, but does not increase strength. He stated it correctly that it will be stiffer than a barrel of same weight but not of same diameter. If you really want to get into physics, you can calculate all the numbers but you will be back at the conclusion that a fluted barrel compared to a round barrel of same diameter is less strong. The simple explaination can be that mass of fluted barrel is less than round barrel with equal diameter. Fluting however "moves" mass into a way that is stronger for the same weight. Even though you are starting with a thicker barrel, you are ending with the same amount of material as a round barrel with smaller diameter and fluted barrel will have the material arranged to brace the barrel. Fluting does have one drawback if not done correctly. If flutes are too deep or not exactly paralel to barrel then you could end up with a blow out in one of the flutes. If you are heading towards this, go with a reputable machinist that has much experience in this area.