| An extensive literature survey of the history of the development of the concept of the heat transfer coefficient was undertaken. This research aims to clarify the confusion and disagreement in the scientific community as to the number of modes of heat transfer, who developed the concept of the heat transfer coefficient, and the oversimplification of the heat transfer coefficient in Newton's Law of Cooling. A thorough unbiased review of the first heat transfer paper was undertaken and compared to other researchers' views. Newton observed a cooling phenomenon; however, it is clear that he did not develop the concept of the heat transfer coefficient. Given the definition of heat transfer, convection is not a mode of heat transfer, but rather a transport mechanism of conduction and radiation in which the medium's ability to transfer heat is improved by mixing.; An experimental investigation involving conduction and mixing was undertaken to examine the most important mechanisms of convection at relatively low temperatures; hence, negligible effects of radiation. At relatively constant wall temperatures, the results indicated a 10 to 23% increase in heat transfer across the channel as compared to the no flow condition.; A two-dimensional theoretical and numerical investigation of fluid and heat flow was undertaken to provide predictions for heat transfer. Poisson's Equation with a modified forcing term was used to explain improvements in heat transfer. The investigation modeled the effects of material properties and axial velocity on lateral conduction. The maximum heat flux occurred when flow and heat input were optimally balanced. To better explain everyday engineering applications, designs, and complicated enhancement applications, a ‘Boxcar Model’ was proposed and proved an excellent model for explaining heat transfer. This model can aid in teaching heat transfer and in designing and operating heat transfer systems. This research serves as a ‘road sign’ to improve understanding of and methods for teaching the subject of heat transfer. In addition, this work provides a direction for designers and manufacturers to improve methodologies for developing and designing heat transfer systems, and to provide a better framework for communication among engineers. |
