Abstract

In this work, a comparative assessment of the finite volume (FVM) and finite element (FEM) methods is performed in the analysis of different problems involving natural convection. The FVM semi-implicit method for pressure-linked equations (SIMPLE) algorithm and a fixed-mesh FEM using a generalized streamline operator (GSO) technique are used in the numerical solution of the thermally coupled incompressible Navier- Stokes equations. The thermal induced fluid flow pattern, the modified temperature field, and the heat transfer conditions are successfully evaluated in natural convection problems, including phase-change and mould wall conductance effects.