Title: Entropy generation analysis in a slab with non-uniform heat generation subjected to convection cooling

Authors: M. El Haj Assad

Addresses: Department of Energy Technology, School of Science and Technology, Aalto University, P.O. Box 11400, FI-00076 Aalto, Finland

Abstract: Entropy generation in a rectangular slab with a non-uniform internal heat generation is investigated. A non-dimensional analysis of the local and total entropy generation during steady state heat conduction through the slab is presented. The external surfaces of the slab are subjected to asymmetric convection cooling by the surrounding medium. Analytical temperature distribution within the slab is obtained. The study presents a parametric study of relevant dimensionless heat transfer parameters and their influence on entropy generation. The results show that the local and total entropy generation rates can be minimised for certain combinations of the heat transfer parameters. The results of calculations are presented graphically.

Keywords: steady heat conduction; rectangular slabs; internal heat generation; entropy generation; convection cooling; temperature distribution; heat transfer.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2011.043044

International Journal of Exergy, 2011 Vol.9 No.3, pp.355 - 369

Received: 19 Feb 2011
Accepted: 02 Apr 2011
Published online: 12 Oct 2011 *

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