Computational simulation and experimental validation of an engineering problem: A case study on heat transfer in cylindrical fin with phase‐change material

Abstract

AbstractIn this study, an extensive numerical simulation on the fins with a phase‐change material (PCM) has been conducted under various design aspects to understand the heat transfer mechanism through a project‐based learning system. A detailed methodology on the use of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools for an engineering problem is discussed along with experimental validation. Initially, a required experimental test setup has been developed, and a cylindrical fin with PCM is fabricated and tested for heat transfer. Cylindrical fin is made from aluminum material, and paraffin is used as PCM since its application is widely spread in energy industries. Later, CFD simulation is performed on the cylindrical fin in ANSYS Workbench by including both heat transfer and phase‐change phenomenon of PCM. The CFD solver solves the partial differential equation through the finite volume method and the results obtained from the CFD simulation are checked for grid independence. Also, the obtained results are compared with experimental results for validation and found a good agreement. After validation, the influence of the PCM zone aspect ratio, PCM zone location, and groove over fin on heat transfer are numerically studied. From the obtained results, it is noticed that increasing the PCM volume increases the melting time and also lowers the fin tip temperature. Finally, fins with peripheral grooves and PCM proves as a good combination for a better heat transfer rate. This kind of simulation studies helps the students to understand the complex heat transfer mechanism through project‐based learning and also expertise the students.