Numerical study of MHD mixed convection heat transfer of nanofluid in a lid-driven porous rectangular cavity with three square heating blocks

Abstract

The present numerical study explores the MHD mixed convection heat transfer of nanofluid in a lid-driven porous rectangular cavity with three square heating blocks. Governing equations are solved using the finite element method. The top and bottom walls of the enclosure are maintained at temperature Tc. The left and right walls are kept adiabatic. Three square heating block inside the enclosure. To investigate the effects of Darcy number and Richardson number on the fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics inside the enclosure. A set of graphical results are presented in terms of streamlines, isotherms, dimensionless temperature, velocity profiles and average Nusselt number. The results reveal that heat transfer rate increase as increasing Darcy number and Richardson number. It is observed that, Darcy number is a good control parameter for heat transfer in fluid flow through porous medium in enclosure. Moreover, Cu-water nanofluid has greater merit to be used for heat transfer enhancement. The method used is validated against previous works.