Natural Convection in Interconnected Systems: PIV Measurements

The fluid dynamics in a configuration of interconnected systems was experimentally studied. The configuration consists of one system where the fluid is heated with a power source and another system where the heat is dissipated. The fluid circulates between the two systems due to the buoyancy forces presented. This mechanics of natural convection is important due to their application in the cooling of power oil transformer, electrical devices and electronic components. Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) equipment was employed to obtain measurements of fluid velocities. The effect in the flow patterns due to the variation of the configuration and conditions of the interconnected systems are investigated. Conclusions obtained from the analysis of the experimental data are presented.