Finite Difference Analysis of Prandtl Number and Particle Volume Fraction Effects on Skin Friction and Heat Transfer in Buoyancy Driven Two-Phase Flow with Suspended Particulate Matter (SPM)
Abstract
A numerical investigation has been conducted on incompressible, laminar two-phase buoyancy driven flow containing suspended particles around a vertical plate. Despite the relevance of such systems, prior studies have largely overlooked natural convection two-phase flows with particulate matter, particularly concerning the roles of parameters like the Prandtl number and volume fraction. Addressing this research gap is crucial, as these parameters significantly influence flow behavior and heat transfer, which are vital in environmental, industrial, and thermal applications. This study focuses on exploring the effects of volume fraction and Prandtl number on two-phase flow characteristics using an implicit finite difference method applied on a non-uniform grid. The analysis evaluates boundary layer behavior, heat transfer rates, and skin friction coefficients. Streamline patterns are illustrated for different Prandtl number values, while contour topologies are presented to demonstrate the combined influence of the Prandtl number and volume fraction on skin friction and the heat transfer rate. Results show that increasing the volume fraction reduces both the Nusselt number and the skin friction coefficient, while a higher Prandtl number enhances both. The enhanced thermal response observed with higher Prandtl numbers is particularly beneficial in manufacturing processes involving flat wall-like structures that are susceptible to thermal stress. These findings hold practical significance for the design and optimization of heat exchangers, lubrication systems, and thermal management solutions in electronic devices.
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