Introduction to Convective Heat Transfer

1Foundations of Convective Heat Transfer

1.1 Fundamental Concepts

Heat transfer is an energy transfer process because of a temperature gradient or difference. This temperature difference is called a driving force that causes heat to flow from a high‐temperature region to a low‐temperature region. There are basic mechanisms or modes for heat transfer: conduction, convection, and radiation. In this chapter, we will present their fundamental equations.

1.2 Coordinate Systems

In the solution of heat transfer problems, we need to be able to provide the geometric identification of various points in the system under study. This is done by the use of a coordinate system. If the coordinate system is not accelerating and rotating, it is called an inertial system. The most common right‐hand coordinate systems are illustrated in Figure 1.1. The transformation equations for Cartesian (rectangular) and cylindrical coordinate systems are given as

(1.1a)

(1.1b)

(1.1c)

The spherical coordinate system may be transformed into the rectangular coordinate system. Transformation equations for Cartesian and spherical coordinate systems are given as

(1.2a)

(1.2b)

(1.2c)

Figure 1.1 (a) Cartesian ...