Effect of Axial Back Conduction in a Zig-Zag Oriented Microchannel

Abstract

A comprehensive analysis of the impact of conjugate heat transfer in a zig-zag-oriented microchannel (ZMC) is presented in this paper. Geometric parameters in terms of thermal conductivity ratio, substrate thickness ratio, orientation angle, and flow parameter in the form of Reynolds number are considered in this study. Flow is considered to be laminar without any phase change, and the substrate's bottom is subjected to a constant heat flux boundary condition. The outcomes are described in terms of the local and average Nusselt number, dimensionless local heat flux value, and dimensionless wall and bulk fluid temperatures. A material with a high ksf value maximizes axial conduction in the substrate, lowering the Nuavg, whereas one with a low ksf value reduces the average Nusselt number value due to high heat resistance. This proves that an optimal ksf value results in an optimal Nuavg, which has previously been investigated. The present study aims to see if axial back conduction's effect exists in modified microchannel geometries intended to improve heat transfer.