Recirculating mixed convection flows in rectangular cavities

Abstract

A numerical investigation is carried out to determine the flow and thermal structures of mixed convective flow in a rectangular cavity. The effect of aiding and opposing buoyancy on the flow in a vertical downward laminar jet is studied for Re < 200, -1.0 < 'Ri < 0.5, and 0.5 < A < 5.0. Such flow situations occur in enclosure fires, energy storage, and ventilation systems. Results of the velocity profile, temperature distribution, local friction factor, and heat-transfer coefficient are presented for both hot and cold jets. The flow configuration is found to be strongly affected by the positive and negative buoyancy and also by the aspect ratio of the cavity.