Heat transfer and thermodynamic analysis of the impact of porous media and nano‐powder types in an open cavity equipped with an electronic component

Abstract

AbstractIn this study, a numerical investigation has been carried out to analyze thermal and flow behavior with thermodynamic perspectives in a cooling application problem. The configuration under consideration in this analysis consists of a cubic electronic chip placed in an open cavity filled with porous media. The solver's reliability is achieved by comparing our results with experimental studies. In this regard, various parameters were considered, which consist of different nanoparticles (Al2O3, TiO2, Cu, and Ag), porosities (0.85–0.97), and Reynolds numbers under turbulent conditions within the range (5000 ≤ Re ≤ 30,000). Their imprints have been highlighted on temperature distribution, streamlines, local and average Nusselt numbers, pressure drop, global entropy generation, and exergy efficiency. Results reveal that there is an optimal porosity to achieve the highest cooling performance based on the Reynolds number. In addition, using Al2O3–water nanofluid as a working fluid, the highest values of the mean Nusselt numbers were recorded. Furthermore, operating the system with a porous medium and the Al2O3–water nanofluid results in only a minor increase in pressure drop. Finally, the results substantiate that using porous media reduces global entropy production and slightly decreases the exergy efficiency in the system.