Numerical simulation and structural optimization of forced convection oven

Temperature uniformity is a fundamental parameter for a forced convection oven to guarantee food baking quality. In this study, computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is employed to analyze the air flow and heat transfer within a forced convection oven. Subsequent experimental measurements were conducted to explore the temperature variations inside the oven. The maximum deviation between the numerical simulation results and the experimental data was 2.70%, demonstrating the high accuracy of the simulation model. Based on the established simulation model, we can meticulously investigate the impact of fan structures on the airflow and temperature fields. Carefully designing the fan structure can significantly enhance temperature uniformity across the oven’s baking racks, reducing the standard deviation of temperatures on the second and third baking racks from 5.46°C and 6.69°C to 2.26°C and 2.46°C, respectively. This study provides a robust design strategy for forced convection ovens, yielding tangible benefits for practical application and market competitiveness.