Forced convection heat transfer augmentation in a channel with a localized heat source using fibrous materials

A numerical model is developed for high Reynolds number forced convection heat transfer in a channel filled with randomly oriented, thin fibrous materials of high porosity. A localized isothermal heat source, flush with one of the channel walls is considered to simulate an electronic component. The inertial coefficient and the dispersion conductivity associated with high Reynolds number flows and convective heat transfer are empirically modeled from existing experimental and analytical studies. The resulting fluid flow and heat transfer relationships are presented for a relevant range of parameters, and the fundamental physical processes are explained.