Some new solutions for extended surface heat transfer using symbolic algebra

The paper reports some new solutions for heat transfer through extended surfaces or fins using the symbolic algebra package Maple 8, which is widely available. The four specific problems chosen for the present study are: (a) a rectangular convection fin with the heat transfer coefficient varying either linearly or exponentially with the distance from the base, (b) a truncated conical spine with convection at both ends, (c) a heat-generating annular fin with a constant base heat flux and an adiabatic tip, and (d) a convection fin array made of a rectangular fin and two triangular fins. Each problem is formulated in a manner that makes its solution novel and distinct from what is available in the literature. Solutions are provided in symbolic forms. Using the numerical and graphical capabilities of Maple, the results are presented in the form of numerical data as well as graphical displays. The paper demonstrates that Maple provides an affective and convenient tool for the analysis of extended surface heat transfer problems that otherwise demand tedious algebraic manipulations.