Establishment of non-Fourier heat conduction model for an accurate transient thermal response in wet fins

Abstract

In this work, transient heat transfer response of wet fins is carried out using both Fourier and non-Fourier heat conduction models. The separation of variables is used to establish a classical analytical model defining the actual transient thermal response. The present analysis has been focused and generalized for both longitudinal and pin fins under isothermal and convective base conditions. During the analysis, the instantaneous efficiency has been introduced with both Fourier and non-Fourier heat conduction models in fins operating under dehumidifying conditions. The analysis shows for a significant deviation in temperature response with the non-Fourier heat conduction as compared with that of the Fourier model. The effect of different design variables and fin surface conditions is reported. From the present analysis it becomes apparent that the instantaneous fin efficiency for wet fin surface is always less than the dry one and the condensation of vapor on the fin surface amplifies the non-Fourier heat conduction. Hence, the present analysis of non-Fourier heat transfer for determining the performance parameters of wet fins would help to have actual design information under transient behavior conditions.