Calculation of combined conduction-radiation heat transfer reduction using thick concentric spheres with temperature-dependent emissivity as radiation shields

In this study, the rate of conduction-radiation heat transfer between two thick concentric spheres is analytically investigated because of the ever-increasing importance of radiation shield applications. The heat transfer rate, the percentage of reduction in heat transfer, temperature and emissivity of surfaces are calculated when one and two thick radiation shields are placed between two thick spheres. The calculations show that the use of a radiation shield with a lower emissivity is better than two radiation shields with a higher emissivity to reduce the heat transfer rate. In addition, optimal combinations of radiation shields with different materials are proposed.