Hydromagnetic mixed convective flow in a horizontal channel equipped with Cu-water nanofluid and alternated baffles

Abstract

In this study, mixed convective flow in a horizontal channel equipped with alternated baffles and external magnetic field is examined numerically. The channel is partially heated from its bottom wall at high temperature Th while remaining sections along with the top wall are thermally insulated. Two pairs of baffles are alternately located at both the horizontal walls. Cold nanofluid enters with parabolic velocity through the inlet port of the channel. The governing equations based on Boussinesq approximation are solved implementing finite element method. The results for the physical quantities flow and temperature fields are demonstrated via streamlines, temperature contours, average Nusselt number and average temperature. It is found that the fluid flow and heat transfer are modulated by the orientation and height of alternated baffles. Fluid motion is accelerated with rising Reynolds number and declined for increase in magnetic strength and concentration of nanoparticles. Optimum heat transfer is obtained in respect of appropriate orientation of baffles. The heat transfer augmentation is also reduced by 22.14% at Ha = 50 compared to heat transfer at Ha = 0. In addition, heat transfer rate is 33.86% more in nanofluid containing 5% nanoparticles than base fluid water.

Keywords

• Magnetic field
• Mixed convection
• Nanofluids
• Baffles
• Horizontal channel
• Finite element method