Entropy-optimized flow of couple stresses in a porous inclined pipe with uniform magnetic field and mixed convention

Abstract

Abstract The research aims to investigate the entropy-optimized flow of couple stresses in a porous inclined pipe exposed to a transverse constant magnetic field and mixed convection. It focuses on understanding the thermodynamic efficiency and fluid behaviour under convective boundary conditions, contributing to improved designs in engineering applications where such flows are relevant. The aim is to enhance heat transfer efficiency in industrial processes such as chemical reactors, heat exchangers, and geothermal systems, while also improving filtration systems for applications like water purification and oil recovery. By subjecting the flow to a uniform magnetic field and mixed convection, nonlinear governing equations arise due to mixed convection. We linearize these equations using a quasi-linearization approach and solve them using Chebyshev spectral collocation. Our analysis focuses on thermodynamic phenomena like entropy generation and the Bejan number, which have implications for the efficiency and sustainability of industrial processes. We visualize temperature and axial velocity profiles across various parameter ranges to understand the fluid’s behaviour under the influence of magnetic fields and porous materials. As the magnetic parameter increases, there is a decrease in fluid velocity and temperature. However, the opposite tendency is seen for the couple stress viscosity ratio parameter. We also observe irreversibility dominating heat transfer at the pipe wall, while fluid friction irreversibility dominates around the pipe’s centre. This research contributes to advancing our understanding of thermodynamic processes in complex fluid systems and has practical implications for optimizing industrial processes and developing more efficient filtration systems.