Entropy generation due to mixed convection between vertical parallel plates under isothermal boundary conditions

Abstract

This paper presents the results of an investigation of the buoyancy effects on the entropy generation due to laminar mixed convection in vertical channels between parallel plates. The buoyancy effects, in terms of the buoyancy parameter (Gr/Re) as well as the effects of other operating parameters on the entropy generation are obtained and analysed. The analysis revealed the existence of optimum values of the buoyancy parameter Gr/Re at which the total entropy generation assumes its minimum values. These values are obtained analytically for isothermal boundary conditions of first kind at different values of the two plate's temperature ratio, θT.