Heat transfer enhancement in a channel with block(s) effect and utilizing Nano-fluid

In this study heat transfer and fluid flow analysis in a channel with blocks attached to bottom wall and utilizing Nano-fluid is numerically studied. The fluid temperature at the channel inlet (Tin) is taken less than that of the walls (Tw). The governing equations are numerically solved in the domain by the control volume approach based on the SIMPLE technique. A wide spectrum of numerical simulations has been done over a range of Reynolds number, Nano-fluid volume fraction and the block number. The influence of these parameters is investigated on the local and average Nusselt numbers. From this study, it is concluded that heat transfer in channels can enhance by addition of Nano-particles, and usage of block on hot walls. Simulations show that heat transfer in channels can enhance up to 60% due to the presence of nano-particles and the blocks in channels, but there exist a saturated number of blocks, beyond which, the average Nu do not increase. The present work can provide helpful guidelines to the manufactures of the compact heat exchangers.

► Addition of 10% Nano-particles (copper here) can enhance the heat exchange by 20%.
► Block numbers up to 3, the Nusselt number can enhance by a factor of 1.3–1.4.
► There exist a saturated number of blocks, beyond which, the average Nu do not increase.
► Nu number can enhance up to 60% with nano-particles and the blocks in channels.