Computational Fluid Dynamics Thermal Modelling of Fan-Cooled Finned Heat-sink Considering Air Temperature Rise

Abstract

This paper investigates the thermal efficacy of a fancooled finned heat-sink through the application of computational fluid dynamics simulations alongside empirical validation. The research emphasises the modelling of airflow distribution, the analysis of heat transfer characteristics, and the determination of the heat transfer coefficients. A thermal resistance model has been established and compared with empirical measurements, revealing a significant correlation between the simulation results and the experimental findings. The results show that computational fluid dynamics serves as a reliable instrument for improving heat-sink design without requiring expensive physical prototypes. Subsequent investigations will investigate alternative fan configurations, improve boundary conditions, and enhance computational efficiency.