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Optimizing Heat Transfer in Heat Sink Fin
Project type
Academic
Date
May 2025
Location
Boulder
Abstract
In this project, we used Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to optimize passive heat sink performance by analyzing natural convection across different fin configurations. Three designs—6, 10, and 13 fins—were simulated using a monolithic coupling approach to solve the Navier-Stokes and energy equations under the Boussinesq approximation. Custom triangular meshes with refined elements near fin surfaces were generated to resolve thermal boundary layers. Boundary conditions included constant temperature base and open convective walls. We implemented SUPG and PSPG stabilization and used FEniCS/DOLFINx to execute time-dependent simulations. The 10-fin configuration emerged as the most effective, with a 62% higher heat transfer rate than the 6-fin setup and 18% higher than 13 fins. This was due to optimal boundary layer interaction—neither isolated nor fully merged. Key insights showed that excessive fin density reduces efficiency by disrupting airflow. The results validate CFD as a practical tool for thermal design optimization in electronics. Below videos demonstrates heat transfer through temperature scale.
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