Numerical Simulation of Non-Darcy Forced Convection through a Channel with Nonuniform Heat Flux in an Open Cavity Using Nanofluid

Abstract

This article aims to numerically investigate forced convection heat transfer phenomena in a two-dimensional horizontal channel having an open cavity with porous medium. A nonuniform heat flux is considered to be located on the bottom surface of the cavity. Three different heating modes are considered at this wall. The rest of the surfaces are taken to be perfectly adiabatic. The physical domain is filled with water based nanofluid containing TiO₂ naparticles. The fluid enters from left and exits from right with initial velocity U _i and temperature T _i . Governing equations are discretized using the penalty finite element method. The simulation is carried out for a range of Prandtl number Pr(=5.2–12.2) and solid volume fraction φ (=0%–15%). Results are presented in the form of streamlines, isothermal lines, local and average Nusselt number, average temperature of the fluid, horizontal and vertical velocities at mid-height of the channel, and mean velocity field for various Pr and φ. It is found that increasing Pr and φ cause the enhancement of the heat transfer rate.