Finite element simulation of mixed convection heat and mass transfer in a right triangular enclosure

Abstract

A simulation of mixed convection heat and mass transfer in a right triangular enclosure is investigated numerically. The bottom surface of the enclosure is maintained at uniform temperature and concentration that are higher than that of the inclined surface. Moreover, the left wall of cavity moves upward (case 1) and downward (case 2) directions, which have constant flow speed, and is kept adiabatic. The enclosure represents the most common technology utilizing solar energy for desalination or waste-water treatment. A simple transformation is employed to transfer the governing equations into a dimensionless form. A finite-element scheme is used for present analysis. Comparison with the previously published work is made and found to be an excellent agreement. The study is performed for pertinent parameters such as buoyancy ratio, Richardson number and the direction of the sliding wall motion. The effect of aforesaid parameters on the flow and temperature fields as well as the heat and mass transfer rate examined. The results show that the increase of buoyancy ratio enhances the heat and mass transfer rate for all values of Richardson number and for each direction of the sliding wall motion. However, the direction of the sliding wall motion can be a good control parameter for the flow and temperature fields.