Enhanced heat transfer analysis of micropolar hybrid-nanofluids in an incinerator-shaped cavity
Shafqat Hussain, J. Prakash, Bander Almutairi, Katta Ramesh
Abstract
This study investigates natural convection heat transport in micropolar fluids within an incinerator-shaped cavity, employing a mathematical model and numerical simulations. The research addresses the challenge of improving thermal efficiency in systems where conventional fluids and geometries often limit performance. By incorporating hybrid nanofluids (Ag-MgO nanoparticles), the study aims to enhance thermal conductivity and heat transfer efficiency, offering potential advancements for industrial and engineering applications. Key factors, including the Rayleigh number, geometrical configurations, and nanoparticle volume fraction, are examined for their influence on velocity, temperature, and microrotation profiles. The corresponding mathematical model is simulated using the finite element method, revealing critical insights into the system’s thermal characteristics. Results indicate that a higher Rayleigh number enhances heat transfer through stronger convection. Moderate undulations in the cavity slightly reduce the average Nusselt number, while excessive waviness impairs heat transfer. Increasing the nanoparticle volume fraction improves thermal conductivity, and the addition of hybrid nanoparticles (Ag-MgO) further boosts heat transfer efficiency. Optimal heat transfer is achieved with smaller wavy wall amplitudes and higher nanoparticle volume fractions, while larger amplitudes negatively impact performance. These findings provide a pathway for designing more efficient heat transfer systems, with implications for advanced thermal management in energy, manufacturing, and environmental technologies. • Higher order and stable finite element method is implemented for the proposed problem. • Higher Ra raises Nu, improving heat transfer for heat exchangers. • Ag-MgO nanoparticles boost thermal conductivity and heat transfer. • Higher Gamma reduces fluid motion and Nu, regulating flow dynamics. • High kappa hinders heat transfer, optimizing geometry is crucial.