Impact of obstacle and Joule heating on magneto-convection of hybrid nanofluid in a channel having heated dimple with entropy generation

Purpose The pursuit of high-efficiency thermal management systems has led to significant interest in hybrid nanofluids due to their enhanced thermal properties. This study aims to investigate the effects of obstacle location and size and Joule heating on magneto-hydrodynamic mixed convection flow of a hybrid nanofluid within a channel featuring a heated dimpled section and an adiabatic cylindrical obstacle. Design/methodology/approach The control model consisted of a system of partial differential equations with boundary constraints. Using the finite element method, the authors examined the impact of varying Joule heating, obstacle radius and position, Reynolds number, Hartmann number and Rayleigh number on flow pattern, heat transfer rates and entropy generation. Findings The optimal configuration for maximizing heat transfer and minimizing entropy generation involves a smaller obstacle radius, moderate magnetic field, low Joule heating and increased nanoparticle volume fraction. The results indicate that hybrid nanofluids significantly augment heat transfer under certain conditions and that obstacle geometry is crucial in optimizing both thermal and fluid dynamics. Research limitations/implications The flow is laminar and incompressible. Practical implications These insights are essential for advancing the design of high-efficiency thermal management systems. The nanofluid can be used in chemical engineering, heat exchangers and nuclear reactor. Social implications This study is mainly useful for thermal sciences and chemical engineering. Originality/value The uniqueness in this research is the study of the effects of obstacle location and size and Joule heating on magneto-hydrodynamic mixed convection flow of a hybrid nanofluid within a channel. The obtained results are unique and valuable and it can be used in various field of technology.