Finite Element Solution of Laminar Combined Convection From a Sphere

The purpose of this investigation is to study the flow and heat transfer characteristics of laminar combined convection from an isothermal sphere. The full Navier–Stokes and energy equations are solved by a finite element method. The variations of surface shear stress, pressure, and Nusselt number are obtained over the entire surface of the sphere including the zone beyond the separation point. The predicted values of average Nusselt number, location of separation point, total drag shear force, and some plots of the flow and temperature fields are also presented. The results are compared with those of previous numerical and experimental investigations and the agreement is satisfactory.