Study of the Fluid Flow in the Elliptical Duct by the Method of Characteristics

Abstract

This study develops a mathematical model to determine the properties of laminar flow in the elliptical duct. With some assumptions, the nonlinear governing equations of the air in the elliptical duct are transformed into the hyperbolic type. The method of characteristics is then applied. Numerical results are obtained by using the finite difference method and the uniform interval scheme. The air properties in the elliptical duct are analyzed. The local Nusselt number and the heat transfer coefficient along the duct are studied. The numerical results are compared and show good agreement with the available data.