Numerical model for radiative heat transfer analysis in arbitrarily shaped axisymmetric enclosures with gaseous media

A numerical model is presented for evaluating thermal radiative transport in irregularly shaped axisymmetric enclosures containing a homogeneous, isotropically scattering medium. Based on the discrete exchange factor (DEF) method exchange factors between arbitrarily oriented differential surface/volume ring elements are calculated using a simple approach. The present method is capable of addressing blockage effects produced by inner/outer obstructing bodies. The results obtained via the current method are found to be in excellent agreement with existing solutions to several cylindrical media benchmark problems. The solutions to several rocket-nozzle and plug-chamber geometries are presented for a host of geometric conditions and optical thicknesses.