Intensification of Heat Transfer in Cavity Partially Heated and Filled with Nanofluid (Cu-Water)

Abstract

Natural convection in a rectangular cavity with aspect ratio (Ax), partially heated and filled with a nanofluid (Cu-Water) has been studied numerically. Two heat sources with length (B) are placed on the opposite vertical walls; the remainder of the walls is maintained adiabatic while the horizontal walls are brought to a cold temperature. The equations governing the flow are solved using a finite volume home code using a multigrid technique. Among the parameters governing the flow, a detailed study on the effects of the aspect ratio (Ax) and the length of the source (B) on flow and heat transfer rate is given. The results are shown in terms of streamlines and isotherms. It was found that the transfer of heat significantly increases with the aspect ratio (Ax) and the length of the source (B). A correlation expressing the Nusselt number as a function of (Ax) and d is established.