Abstract: A numerical study was conducted to check heat transfer performance by a hybrid nanofluid $$((Al_{2}O_{3}-Cu) / H_{2}O)$$ through a shallow heated cavity. The governing equations are solved by the finite volume method using a one-point closure turbulence model. The Maxwell-Garnett (MG) and Brinkman models are applied, respectively, for the computation of the conductivity and viscosity of the nanofluid. The results are specifically for turbulent flows for Reynolds number Re ranging between $$2.10^{4}$$ and $$6.10^{4}$$. A percentage selection was made for a wide range of copper (10% ≤ Cu ≤ 50%) and volume fraction of the nanoparticles between 0 and φ =5%. Heat transfer along the cavity bottom wall is strongly influenced by the Reynolds number and the volume fraction of all types of nanofluids. The high thermal conductivity of hybrid nanofluids justifies their efficiency in comparison with single nanofluids for heat transfer processes. The local Nusselt number is least in all recirculation zones, reaching peak values at stagnation points. The Nusselt number augments with the Reynolds number and volume fraction of all types of nanofluids (single or hybrid). Hybrid nanofluids improve heat transfer more than single nanofluids.

Keywords: Forced convection, Cavity, Heat transfer enhancement, Hybrid nanofluides, Nusselt Number, volume fraction, CFD

Pages: 97-106