Maximum thermal conductance for a micro-channel, utilising Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid

Abstract

This paper investigates the thermal behaviour of two micro-channel elements cooled by Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, with the objective to maximise thermal conductance subject to constraints. This is done firstly for a two-dimensional duct micro-channel and secondly for a three-dimensional complex micro-channel. A numerical model is used to solve the governing equations relating to flow and temperature fields for both cases. The geometric configuration of each cooling channel is optimised for Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluid at a fixed inlet velocity and heat flux. In addition, the effect of porosity on thermal conductance is investigated. It was found, in both cases, that the non-Newtonian fluid characteristics result in a significant variation in thermal conductance as inlet velocity is increased. The characteristics of a dilatant fluid greatly reduce thermal conductance on account of shear thickening on the boundary surface. In contrast, a pseudoplastic fluid shows increased thermal conductance. A comparison of the complex micro-channel and the duct micro-channel shows the improved thermal conductance resulting from greater flow access to the conductive area, achieved by the complex micro-channel.