MECH231 Spring 2011

S.Yao
Handout 5
Homework Assignment 4
Due: 16/03/2011

1. Write down the transient, three-dimensional, with internal heat generation q& , heat
conduction equation for rectangular coordinates, assuming that the conductivity can
VARY with position. Clearly label each of the terms according to its role in the energy
balance. Simplify this equation for the case when the conductivity is constant and the
problem is steady-state.

2. A large slab of aluminumρCp = 2.5 MJ/m3K and k = 240 W/mK is initially at a uniform
temperature of 20 °C. The surface is exposed to a temperature of 250 °C. Calculate the
temperature at a depth of 2.5 cm after 30 sec and the total heat per unit surface area
transferred to the slab during 30 sec.

3. Assume 1-D heat flwo for fin problems, show that a nodal equation for nodes along the
fin may be expressed as
⎡ hP(Δx) 2 ⎤ hP(Δx) 2
Tm ⎢ + 2⎥ − T ∞−(Tm −1 + Tm +1 ) = 0
⎣ kA ⎦ kA

T∞, h

m−1 m m+1

Δx

4. 2D solid shown below generates heat internally at the rate of 90 MW/m3. the top surface
is subject to convection heat transfer h = 100 W/m2°C and temperature T∞= 20°C, and the
right surface is fixed at 100°C. Using the numerical method (1) setup the nodal
equations; (2) (optional) calculate the steady-state nodal temperatures for k = 20 W/m°C.
Δx = Δy =1 cm.

T∞ = 20 °C,
h = 100 W/m2°C
1 2 3
Insulated
4 5 6
T = 100 °C

7 8 9

10 11 12