Numerical Investigation of PCM Based Heat Sinks with Embedded Metal Foam/Crossed Plate Fins

Abstract

Three-dimensional numerical models for phase change material based heat sinks equipped with thermal conductivity enhancers like aluminum metal foam and crossed plate fins are validated with the experimental data found in literature. For the aluminum metal foam embedded in the heat sink filled with phase change material, the porosity and the pores per inch of the metal foam were varied and natural convection currents were studied. Maintaining the volume fraction of the phase change material as a constant, the thermal performance enhancement as a result of the introduction of thermal conductivity enhancer into the heat sinks is determined.