The heat transfer through low density fibrous assemblies used as insulators is far more complex than that of homogeneous materials. The contribution of infra-red radiation is a significant component, even when the temperature dif ference across the assembly is low, and it influences both the temperature gra dient and heat transmission within the assembly. A model has been developed that may be used to predict the temperature gradient and the net heat transfer through such materials. The mathematical expressions involved are complex and not readily solved by analytical methods. This paper describes a numerical method of solution of the model, and includes some examples of its use.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.
References
1.
Stuart, I.M. and Holcombe, B.V., "Heat transfer through fibre beds by radiation with shading and conduction," Text Res J (February 1984).
2.
Holcombe, B.V. and Stuart, I.M., "Method for numerical solution of equations describing heat flow in fibrous beds," Laboratory Note SN/90, C.S.I.R.O. Division of Textile Physics (May 1983).
3.
Fishenden, M. and Saunders, O.A.An Introduction to Heat TransferLondon : Oxford University Press (1950).
4.
Milne-Thomson, L.M.The Calculus of Finite DifferencesLondon: Macmillan (1951).
5.
Birkebak, R.C. and Ozil, E., "Theoretical consideration of radiative conductivities in fibrous insulation," in Studies in Heat Transfer: a Festschrift for E.R G. EckertNew York: McGraw-Hill, pp. 409-418 (1979).
Davis, L.B., "Energy Transfer in Fur," Ph.D. thesis, University of Kentucky (1972).
8.
Caspersson, T., "Uber den chemischen aufbau der Strukturen des Zellkernes," from Scandanavisches Archiv fur Phystologie, Suppl No. 8. Berlin: de Gruyter and Co., 39-46 (1936).
9.
Wolfe, W. L. and Zissis, G. J., ed. The Infra-red HandbookWashington, D.C.: Naval Research Laboratory p. 1.15 (1978).
10.
Van deHulst, H.C.Light Scattering by Small Particles. New York: Wiley and Sons (1957).
