Numerical Analysis of Flow and Heat Transfer Characteristics between Two Parallel Plates with Constriction(s)

Abstract

A numerical study involving graphical analysis has been carried out to investigate fluid flow and heat transfer between two stationary horizontal plates possessing blocks (which restricts flow). Important parameters corresponding to pressure, velocity, temperature, heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt Number have been under the spotlight. Multiple investigations have been undertaken to observe the flow and heat transfer characteristics not only by altering the size of blocks but also by changing the number of blocks. As the blocks reduce the area of flow, following the Continuity equation, reduction of flow area increases the flow velocity and makes the flow turbulent. And the rise of fluid velocity lowers the pressure according to Bernoulli’s principle. Moreover, the presence of blocks creates recirculation of fluid which increases the available time for heat gaining while heat flux is being applied. Blocks contribute to the increase in temperature of the fluid. The higher velocity of fluid causes higher collision among fluid particles. Thus, the heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt Number increase.

Keywords

• numerical
• cfd
• restriction
• reynolds number
• pressure
• velocity