Abstract: | The problem of three-dimensional laminar natural convection in a vertical enclosure with an inner square rod is treated by a numerical method in boundary-fitted co-ordinates. The inner and outer cylinders are heated and cooled, respectively, to maintain different constant surface temperatures. The horizontal enclosure surfaces are maintained at adiabatic conditions. The Prandtl number is that of air, 0·703, and the Rayleigh numbers span the conduction, transition and boundary layer regimes of flow. The radius ratio is 1, and the aspect ratio (cylinder length divided by maximum annular gap) is 1. The results of the study provide data useful in the design and performance assessment of nuclear reactor spent fuel shipping casks. |