Impact of Reynolds and Prandtl Numbers Coupled with Viscous Dissipation on Mixed Convection in A Square Cavity

Abstract

Efficient thermal management in industrial manufacturing and electronic cooling systems can be achieved by comprehending characteristics of Reynolds and Prandtl numbers in mixed convection scenarios, which aids in the optimization of heat transfer systems through the utilization of forced and natural convection effects. The impact of Reynolds and Prandtl numbers on mixed convection in a square cavity connected to a moving heated horizontal plate is investigated in this research paper. The convective behavior under different conditions was evaluated by discretizing the flow governing equations, which included the momentum and energy equations, using the finite difference method. The research assessed various fluids, including air (Pr = 0.7), liquid metal (Pr = 0.01), and oil (Pr = 10). The Reynolds number ranged from 0.001 to 100, the Eckert number ranged from 0.01 to 40, and a constant Richardson number (Ri = 1) was maintained throughout. The results revealed that the Reynolds number substantially impacts the velocity and temperature characteristics, especially when coupled with a Prandtl number over one and when viscous dissipation remains constant. The utmost velocity that can be attained within the cavity is significantly diminished as the Reynolds number rises, underscoring the critical importance of dynamic fluid properties in determining heat transfer efficiency and fluid flow characteristics. The research unveiled the critical importance of Reynolds and Prandtl numbers in the field of fluid dynamics concerning enhancing heat transfer attributes for engineering purposes, thereby guaranteeing the effectiveness of thermal systems.