Effect of impinging jet cooling and thermal radiation on magnetohydrodynamic mixed convection and entropy generation in a semicircular porous channel

Purpose

This study aims to examine magnetohydrodynamic mixed convective phenomena and entropy generation within a semicircular porous channel, incorporating impinging jet cooling and the effects of thermal radiation. The present study analyzes the complex flow dynamics and heat transfer characteristics of a highly diluted 0.1% (volume) concentration Cu–Al₂O₃/water hybrid nanofluid, based on findings from previous studies. The investigation is intended to support the development of effective thermal management systems across diverse industries, such as cooling of electronic devices and enhanced energy system applications.

Design/methodology/approach

This study incorporates a heated curved bottom wall and a cooling jet of Cu–Al₂O₃/water hybrid nanofluid impinging from the central top inlet, with two horizontal exit ports along the rectangular duct. Finite element-based simulations are conducted using COMSOL Multiphysics, using a single-phase homogeneous model justified by earlier works. This method uses experimental data of effective thermal conductivity and viscosity, emphasizing the evaluation of thermal performance in scenarios involving intricate geometries and multiphysical conditions. The study analyzes nondimensional variables such as Reynolds number (Re), modified Rayleigh number (Ra_m), Hartmann number (Ha), Darcy number (Da) and radiation parameter while maintaining a constant nanofluid volume fraction. A grid independence study and code validation were performed to ensure numerical accuracy.

Findings

The analysis indicates that elevated Re contribute to a lessening in the thermal boundary layer thickness, prompting flow separation and significantly amplifying the average Nusselt number. The mixed convective heat transfer enhancement, coupled with an overall reduction in total entropy generation, diminishes with a rising Ha. However, optimized combinations of higher values for modified Ra_m and Da yield improved heat transfer performance, particularly pronounced with increasing Ha. Radiative heat transfer exerts a detrimental impact on both heat transfer and entropy production.

Practical implications

While the single-phase model captures key macroscopic effects differentiating nanofluids from base fluids, it does not provide insights at the nanoparticle level. Future studies could incorporate two-phase models to capture particle-level dispersion effects. In addition, experimental validation of the findings would strengthen the study’s conclusions.

Originality/value

This work represents innovative perspectives on the development of efficient hydrothermal systems, accounting for the influences of thermal radiation, porous media and hybrid nanofluids within a complex geometry. The results offer critical insights for enhancing heat transfer efficiency in real-world applications, especially in sectors demanding advanced cooling solutions.