Description of Model

This model incorporates the full transient effects of the heater rotation - including the changes in radiation view factors with each step in movement and time. Initially the model was set up as a static-geometry model. Then the model was saved repeatedly, with a slight rotation of the heater tower. The models were the run in a looped sequence, using RadTherm's transient restart function. To establish a realistic pseudo-steady state, the model was looped repeatedly until the results converged. Because RadTherm can re-use view factors from previous runs, the view factor for each orientation was calculated only during the first loop. Subsequent loops re-used the exisiting view factors. View model animation.

This type of approach can also be used for parametric studies of thermal systems. For example, the optimum heat shield location between a heat source and temperature-sensitive objects. The heat shield animation illustrates the thermal effects of shield position on the car frame and underbody. The conveyor animation shows stamped parts passing through a conveyorized IR heating system to cure a rust-preventive coating.

To automate this process, we wrote a simple function and ran the models in batch model through the TDF Library (RadTherm's C++ API). If you have questions about modeling heat transfer in moving systems, please contact info@thermoanalytics.com.