Numerical Investigation on Mixed Convection Phenomenon Within a 2D Cavity Shaped Home Containing Solar Chimney

MAHMOUD KALFALI; Mouna  MAACHE BATTIRA; Nourredine BELGHAR; Chihab eddine BRAHMI

doi:10.51646/jsesd.v14i1.467

Authors

MAHMOUD KALFALI Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abbes Laghrour University, Laboratory of Studies of Industrial Energy Systems LESEI, Faculty of Technology, University of Batna 2, Batna, 05000, Algeria.
Mouna MAACHE BATTIRA Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abbes Laghrour University, Kenchela, 40000, Algeria.
Nourredine BELGHAR Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abbes Laghrour University, Kenchela, 40000, Algeria. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7772-5101
Chihab eddine BRAHMI Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Sciences and Technology, Abbes Laghrour University, Kenchela, 40000, Algeria.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51646/jsesd.v14i1.467

Abstract

This study investigates the numerical simulation of mixed convection within a two-dimensional cavity shaped like a solar chimney in a home configuration. The primary goal is to investigate airflow and heat transfer effects to optimize solar chimney performance for residential applications. The analysis incorporates various parameters, such as Richardson (Ri) and Reynolds (Re) numbers, along with two distinct ventilation inlet positions: Case 1 at (x=0, y=0.9) and Case 2 at (x=0, y=0.1). Simulations are performed using a numerical code based on the Galerkin finite element method and the Boussinesq approximation. The findings suggest that an upper ventilation location significantly enhances airflow circulation and improves heat transfer by 20% compared to lower ventilation. For Ri values within 2.5≤Ri<5, forced convection is predominant, accelerating airflow velocity by 35%. In contrast, at Ri=10, natural convection takes over, creating a 40% higher thermal gradient. Additionally, an increase in Reynolds number from 100 to 500 results in a 25% improvement in convective heat transfer. Lastly, the solar chimney configuration boosts ventilation efficiency by 30%, underscoring its potential to enhance indoor air quality in residential buildings.

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