3D optimization of baffle arrangement in a multi-phase nanofluid natural convection based on numerical simulation

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study is investigating the effect of using multi-phase nanofluids, Rayleigh number and baffle arrangement simultaneously on the heat transfer rate and Predict the optimal arrangement type of baffles in the differentiation of Rayleigh number in a 3D enclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

Simulations were performed on the base of the L25 Taguchi orthogonal array, and each test was conducted under different height and baffle arrangement. The multi-phase thermal lattice Boltzmann based on the D3Q19 method was used for modeling fluid flow and temperature fields.

Findings

Streamlines, isotherms, nanofluid volume fraction distribution and Nusselt number along the wall surface for 104 < Ra < 108 have been demonstrated. Signal-to-noise ratios have been analyzed to predict optimal conditions of maximize and minimize the heat transfer rate. The results show that by choosing the appropriate height and arrangement of the baffles, the average Nusselt number can be changed by more than 57 per cent.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is surveying three-dimensional and two-phase simulation for nanofluid. Also using the Taguchi method for Predicting the optimal arrangement type of baffles in a multi-part enclosure. Finally statistical analysis of the results by using of two maximum and minimum target Function heat transfer rates.

Citation

Peiravi, M.M., Alinejad, J., Ganji, D.D. and Maddah, S. (2020), "3D optimization of baffle arrangement in a multi-phase nanofluid natural convection based on numerical simulation", International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow, Vol. 30 No. 5, pp. 2583-2605. https://doi.org/10.1108/HFF-01-2019-0012