Natural convection and entropy generation in a trapezoidal region with hybrid nanoliquid under magnetic field

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to study numerically the steady natural convective heat transfer of a hybrid nanosuspension (Ag-MgO/H2O) within a partially heated/cooled trapezoidal region with linear temperature profiles at inclined walls under an effect of uniform Lorentz force. This investigation is useful for researchers studying in the area of cavity flows to know features of the flow structures and nature of hybrid nanofluid characteristics. In addition, a detailed entropy generation analysis has been performed to highlight possible regimes with minimal entropy generation rates. Design/methodology/approach The governing equations formulated using the Oberbeck–Boussinesq approach and single-phase nanoliquid model are transformed to a non-dimensional form by using non-dimensional variables. The obtained equations with appropriate boundary conditions are resolved by the finite difference technique. The developed code has been validated comprehensively. Analysis has been performed for a wide range of governing parameters, including Rayleigh number (Ra = 105), Prandtl number (Pr = 6.82), Hartmann number (Ha = 0–100), magnetic field inclination angle (φ = 0–?/2) and nanoparticles volume fraction (φhnf = 0 and 2%). Findings It has been shown that inclined magnetic field can be used to manage the energy transport performance. An inclusion of nanoparticles without Lorentz force influence allows forming more stable convective regime with descending heat plume in the central zone, while such a regime was performed for clear fluid only for moderate and high Hartmann numbers. Moreover, the average overall entropy generation can be decreased with a growth of the Hartmann number, while an addition of hybrid nanoparticles allows reducing this parameter for Ha = 30 and 50. The average Nusselt number can be increased with a growth of the nanoparticles concentration for low values of the magnetic field intensity. Originality/value Governing equations written using the conservation laws and dimensionless non-primitive variables have been resolved by the finite difference approach. The created numerical code has been verified by applying the grid independence test and computational outcomes of other researchers. The comprehensive analysis for various key parameters has been performed.