Numerical investigation of nanofluids mixed convection in a vertical channel

Abstract

In this paper, mixed convection of nanofluids is numerically investigated in an asymmetric heated vertical channel. Two nanofluids are considered: copper-water and alumina oxide-water. A single phase model is used with considering approximations of Brinkman and Maxwell-Garnetts for the nanofluids dynamic viscosity and the effective thermal conductivity, respectively. The non-dimensional conservation equations with along the boundary conditions are solved by using the finite volume method and SIMPLE algorithm. The effects of nanoparticle volume fraction (0-10%) on the flow patterns and heat transfer characteristics are analyzed and discussed. Results showed that nanoparticles volume fraction with assisted buoyancy force (induced by one heated channel wall) has a strong effect on nanofluid velocities and average Nusselt number. The Cu-water nanofluid showed better thermal performance than that of Al2O3-water.