Streamline upwind finite element method for conjugate heat transfer problems

This paper presents a combined finite element method for solving conjugate heat transfer problems where heat conduction in a solid is coupled with heat convection in viscous fluid flow. The streamline upwind finite element method is used for the analysis of thermal viscous flow in the fluid region, whereas the analysis of heat conduction in solid region is performed by the Galerkin method. The method uses the three-node triangular element with equal-order interpolation functions for all the variables of the velocity components, the pressure and the temperature. The main advantage of the proposed method is to consistently couple heat transfer along the fluid-solid interface. Three test cases, i.e. conjugate Couette flow problem in parallel plate channel, counter-flow in heat exchanger, and conjugate natural convection in a square cavity with a conducting wall, are selected to evaluate the efficiency of the present method.

Design and Implementation of a System for Laser Assisted Milling of Advanced Materials

Laser assisted machining is an effective method to machine advanced materials with the added benefits of longer tool life and increased material removal rates. While extensive studies have investigated the machining properties for laser assisted milling（LAML）, few attempts have been made to extend LAML to machining parts with complex geometric features. A methodology for continuous path machining for LAML is developed by integration of a rotary and movable table into an ordinary milling machine with a laser beam system. The machining strategy and processing path are investigated to determine alignment of the machining path with the laser spot. In order to keep the material removal temperatures above the softening temperature of silicon nitride, the transformation is coordinated and the temperature interpolated, establishing a transient thermal model. The temperatures of the laser center and cutting zone are also carefully controlled to achieve optimal machining results and avoid thermal damage. These experiments indicate that the system results in no surface damage as well as good surface roughness, validating the application of this machining strategy and thermal model in the development of a new LAML system for continuous path processing of silicon nitride. The proposed approach can be easily applied in LAML system to achieve continuous processing and improve efficiency in laser assisted machining.

Heat Transfer,Knock Modeling and Cyclic Variability in a “Downsized”Spark-Ignition Turbocharged Engine

In the present paper a combined procedure for the quasi-dimensional modelling of heat transfer,combustion and knock phenomena in a “downsized”Spark Ignition two-cylinder turbocharged engine is presented.The procedure is extended to also include the effects consequent the Cyclic Variability.Heat transfer is modelled by means of a Finite Elements model.Combustion simulation is based on a fractal description of the flame front area.Cyclic Variability(CV)is characterized through the introduction of a random variation on a number of parameters controlling the rate of heat release(air/fuel ratio,initial flame kernel duration and radius,laminar flame speed,turbulence intensity).The intensity of the random variation is specified in order to realize a Coefficient Of Variation(COV)of the Indicated Mean Effective Pressure(IMEP)similar to the one measured during an experimental campaign.Moreover,the relative importance of the various concurring effects is established on the overall COV.A kinetic scheme is then solved within the unburned gas zone,characterized by different thermodynamic conditions occurring cycle-by-cycle.In this way,an optimal choice of the “knock-limited”spark advance is effected and compared with experimental data.Finally,the CV effects on the occurrence of individual knocking cycles are assessed and discussed.