Network simulation method for solving phase-change heat transfer problems with variable thermal properties

 The transient heat conduction equation in a finite slab undergoing phase change (two-phase problem of melting and solidification), with isothermal, adiabatic or convective boundary conduction is studied by the network simulation method; solid phase conductivity and specific heat are assumed to be dependent on temperature. Ablation, as a particular case, is also analysed. A network model is established for a cell and boundary conditions are added to complete the whole network model. No restrictions exist, as to the kinds of linear and non-linear boundary conditions, Stefan number values or the initial conditions (when hypotheses concern of the Stefan problem, numerical and exact solutions are compared for a large interval of Stefan numbers; simulation values show good agreement). Movement of the solid–liquid boundary and thermal fields are determined in all cases. Received on 10 May 2000 / Published online: 29 November 2001