Numerical Investigation of the Influence of Fin Contraction on Heat Transfer in Fe3O4-SiC-Al2O3 / Silicone Oil Ternary Hybrid Nanofluid

This study numerically investigates the variation in the fin structure on the thermal performance of an axially aligned porous fin embedded in ternary hybrid nanofluid. The tapered wet porous fin moving at a uniform speed is subjected to expansion and contraction. The thermal performance of the embedded model is numerically evaluated through simulation based on the impact of this on the fin’s temperature distribution and temperature gradient. The study employs a systematic approach by non-dimensionalizing the governing equation and obtaining the numerical solution using Lobatto numerical tech-nique. Darcy’s flow model is applied to examine the proposed model key parameters and thermal characteristics of ternary hybrid nanofluid within the fin, accounting for natural convection and radiation effects. The simulation results highlight the implication of various similarity parameters and variation in the fin profile on the thermal behaviour of the embedded model. A substantial enhancement in the heat transmission is observed, attributed to fin contraction. Statistically, the heat absorption by the surrounding ternary hybrid nanofluid enhances by an average of 1.82%, 1.76%, 1.82%, 3.39% with the enhancement in the similarity parameters NC, n₂, NR, P E values and 1.91%, 1.96% with the decrease in the similarity parameters q, θ_a1, as the fin contracts along its length. Also, the temperature gradient enhances with the fin contraction. The findings enhance the understanding of fin design, hybrid nanofluid flow and its potential applications in the design and optimization of thermal management systems in industries. Additionally, they lay the foundation for carrying out further research in hybrid nanofluid based cooling systems.