Experimental investigation for automotive radiator heat transfer performance with ZnO–Al₂O₃/water-based hybird nanoparticles: An improved thermal model

Abstract

Heat produced inside internal combustion engines can become the cause of engine damage and failure. The engine cooling system in vehicles plays a crucial role to avoid damage as a result of internal heating. Thus, the role of radiators in removing excessive heat from the engine is important. Nanofluids are used in this regard to improve the heat transfer performance of radiators. Among different nanofluids, Al 2 O 3 /water and ZnO/water nanofluids have been proven better heat transfer coolants for automobile cooling systems. Therefore, in this study, we developed the automotive radiator test rig to compare the performance of ZnO/water and Al 2 O 3 /water nanofluids. The radiator test rig was modified to find accurate results. The overall comparison between both nanofluids showed that Al 2 O 3 nanoparticles are more effective as compared to ZnO nanoparticles in the coolant.