Lattice Boltzmann method to simulate convection heat transfer in a microchannel under heat flux

Abstract

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to improve the lattice Boltzmann method’s ability to simulate a microflow under constant heat flux. Design/methodology/approach Develop the thermal lattice Boltzmann method based on double population of hydrodynamic and thermal distribution functions. Findings The buoyancy forces, caused by gravity, can change the hydrodynamic properties of the flow. As a result, the gravity term was included in the Boltzmann equation as an external force, and the equations were rewritten under new conditions. Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the current study is the first attempt to investigate mixed-convection heat transfer in an inclined microchannel in a slip flow regime.