Experimental and numerical analysis of convective heat transfer in turbulent channel flow with square and circular columns

Convective heat transfer induced by square and circular columns in turbulent channel flow was studied by liquid crystal thermography and computational fluid dynamics and heat transfer. The experiment was performed in a specially designed tunnel with a cooling water chamber attached to the working section. The numerical analysis was carried out by solving the governing equations for fluid flow and heat transfer using a finite-volume method. The approach was to use an experimental method of known accuracy to validate the numerical models, which could then be used with confidence in future investigations. Both qualitative and quantitative agreements were obtained between the experimental and computational studies. Enhancement of the local heat transfer capability was observed.