Numerical Study of Transient Temperature Distribution in Square Fins for Different Convective Heat Transfer Coefficients

Substantial temperature disparities between machine components and their environment frequently impede the attainment of optimal system performance. To alleviate excessive thermal loads, the utilization of fins as cooling elements is a widely adopted approach. This research endeavors to numerically examine the temperature distribution within a square fin subject to varying convective coefficients. Numerical simulations employing the finite difference method were carried out to forecast the temperature distribution within the fin during the cooling process. The simulation outcomes reveal that the convective coefficient exerts a significant influence on the temperature distribution and the temporal duration required for the fin to attain a steady state. Elevated convective coefficients facilitate accelerated heat transfer from the fin to the cooling fluid and diminished temperature differentials between the fin base and tip. Conversely, augmenting the convective coefficient also culminates in a reduction in fin efficiency as a larger proportion of the heat is unable to reach the fin tip. The findings of this study can contribute to the optimization of fin design in a myriad of mechanical engineering applications.