Diffusion-convection process in a branching fin
Journal
Chemical Engineering Communications
Journal Volume
158
Pages
59-70
Date Issued
1997
Author(s)
Lin W.W.
Abstract
The diffusion-convection transport process in a branching fin with a power-law type transfer coefficient (h = a£Km) was investigated theoretically. The governing equations were formulated and the solution was obtained analytically. For systems with m> - 1, the steady-state distribution for the state variable £K was unique and stable. When the exponent becomes less than - 1, nevertheless, bistability occurs if the steady-state solution exists. Linear stability analysis shows that the lower branch solution on the fin efficiency/effectiveness versus branching number plot was stable, whereas the upper solution was unstable to small perturbations.
Subjects
Analytical
Branching fin
Stability analysis
Steady-state solution
Type
journal article