Heat Transfer Module

User’s Guide
Heat Transfer Module User’s Guide
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Part number: CM020801

C o n t e n t s

Chapter 1: Introduction

About the Heat Transfer Module 20

Why Heat Transfer is Important to Modeling . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
How the Heat Transfer Module Improves Your Modeling . . . . . . . 21
The Heat Transfer Module Physics Interface Guide . . . . . . . . . . 21
Common Physics Interface and Feature Settings and Nodes . . . . . . 29
The Heat Transfer Module Study Capabilities . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Additional Materials Database . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33
Where Do I Access the Documentation and Application Libraries? . . . . 34

Overview of the User’s Guide 38

Chapter 2: Notations

Chapter 3: Modeling with the Heat Transfer Module

Heat Transfer Variables 60

Predefined Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60
Global Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 63
Domain Fluxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
Out-of-Plane Domain Fluxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Boundary Fluxes (Heat Transfer interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
Internal Boundary Heat Fluxes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 70
Domain Heat Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71
Boundary Heat Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Line and Point Heat Sources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Ambient Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72
Moist Air Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

CONTENTS |3
 Moisture Transport Variables 76
Predefined Variables . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 76
Moist air properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 77
Domain Moisture Fluxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Boundary Moisture Fluxes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Domain Moisture Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 81

Using the Boundary Conditions for the Heat Transfer

Interfaces 82
Temperature and Heat Flux Boundary Conditions . . . . . . . . . . 82
Overriding Mechanism for Heat Transfer Boundary Conditions . . . . . 83

Handling Frames in Heat Transfer 86

Heat Transfer Analysis with Moving Frames. . . . . . . . . . . . . 86
Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame . . . . . . . 91

Heat Transfer Consistent and Inconsistent Stabilization

Methods 92
Consistent Stabilization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92
Inconsistent Stabilization . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 93

Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Coupling 94

Coupling Based on Model Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 94
Temperature Coupling and Flow Coupling Multiphysics Features. . . . . 95
Adding Nonisothermal Flow Coupling in an Existing Model . . . . . . . 95
Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Multiphysics
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 96

Boundary Wall Temperature 97

Solver Settings 102

Linearity property of the temperature equation . . . . . . . . . . 102
Linear Solver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
Nonlinear Solver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 105
Time-Dependent Study Step . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Guidelines for Solving Surface-to-Surface Radiation Problems . . . . . 109
Guidelines for Solving Multiphysics problems . . . . . . . . . . . 109

4 | CONTENTS
 Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra Dimensions 112
Along the Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 112
Through the Thin Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 113

Ambient Thermal Properties 115

Settings for the Ambient Thermal Properties . . . . . . . . . . . 115
Processing of ASHRAE Data . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Ambient Data Interpolation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Ambient Variables and Conditions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Use of Ambient Data From the Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . 128

Modeling Heat Transfer by Radiation 130

Interfaces and Features for Radiation in Transparent Media . . . . . . 132
Interfaces and Features for Radiation in Participating Media . . . . . . 134

Specifying the temperature at a flow inlet 136

Using the Temperature condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Using the Inflow condition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Temperature contribution to the Inflow boundary condition . . . . . 138
Pressure contribution to the Inflow boundary condition . . . . . . . 139
Choosing between the Temperature and the Inflow conditions . . . . 139

Heat Part Library 140

Heat Part Library Contents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 140
Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types Part . . . . . . . . . . . . 143
Heat Sink - Dissimilar Border Pins Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Heat Sink - Pin Fins Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Heat Sink - Straight Fins Part . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

References 147

Chapter 4: Theory for the Heat Transfer Module

Foundations of the General Heat Transfer Equation 151

Thermodynamic Description of Heat Transfer. . . . . . . . . . . 151
The Physical Mechanisms under Heat Transfer . . . . . . . . . . 155

CONTENTS |5
 The Heat Balance Equation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 156
Consistency with Mass and Momentum Conservation Laws. . . . . . 159

Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids 161

Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids 162

Theory for Bioheat Transfer 164

The Bioheat Equation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164
Damaged Tissue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 164

Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous Media 168

When Should Local Thermal Equilibrium and Non-Equilibrium be
Considered? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 168
Local Thermal Equilibrium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 169
Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171

Theory for Heat Transfer with Phase Change 174

Phase change in solid materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 176

Theory for Heat Transfer in Building Materials 178

Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer 180

Theory for Lumped Isothermal Domain 182

Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures 185

Modeling Layered Materials . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 185
Theoretical Background of the Different Formulations . . . . . . . 189
Thin Layer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 194
Thin Film . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 197
Fracture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 199
Thin Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 200

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation 201

Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Opaque Surfaces . . . . . . . . 201
Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Semi-Transparent Surfaces . . . . 202
Wavelength Dependence of Surface Emissivity and Absorptivity . . . . 204

6 | CONTENTS
The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Gray Surfaces . . . . . . . . . . 210
The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Spectral Surfaces. . . . . . . . . 213
View Factor Evaluation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 216

Theory for Radiation in Participating Media 220

Radiation and Participating Media Interactions . . . . . . . . . . . 220
Radiative Transfer Equation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 221
Boundary Condition for the Radiative Transfer Equation . . . . . . . 223
Heat Transfer Equation in Participating Media . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 224
Discrete Ordinates Method Implementation in 2D . . . . . . . . . 225
Rosseland Approximation Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 227
P1 Approximation Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 228
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Theory . . . . . . . . . . 231
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory . . . . . . . . . . . . 233

Theory for Moisture Transport 234

Theory for moisture transport in building materials. . . . . . . . . 234
Theory for moisture transport in air . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 234

Theory for the Heat Transfer Multiphysics Couplings 236

Theory for the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 236
Theory for the Moisture Flow Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . 244
Theory for the Thermoelectric Effect Interface . . . . . . . . . . 248
Theory for the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface. . . . . . . 251
Theory for the Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture
Transport Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 252
Theory for the Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture
Transport Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 253
Theory for the Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces . . . . . . . . . 254
Theory for the Electromagnetic Heating Interfaces . . . . . . . . . 254
Theory for the Thermal Stress Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . 254

Theory for Thermal Contact 255

Theory for the Thermal Contact Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . 255

CONTENTS |7
 Moist Air Fluid Type 260
Humidity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 260
Saturation State . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262
Moist Air Properties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 262

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer 267

Equation Formulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267

The Heat Transfer Coefficients 270

Defining the Heat Transfer Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . 271
Nature of the Flow — The Grashof Number . . . . . . . . . . . 272
Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Natural Convection . . . . . 274
Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Natural Convection . . . . . . 281
Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Forced Convection . . . . . . 282
Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Forced Convection . . . . . . 285
Using the Heat and Mass Transfer Analogy for the Evaluation of
Moisture Transfer Coefficients . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 285

Equivalent Thermal Conductivity Correlations 287

Horizontal Cavity With Bottom Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288
Vertical Cavity With Sidewall Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 288

Temperature Dependence of Surface Tension 290

Heat Flux and Heat Balance 291

Total Heat Flux and Energy Flux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 291
Heat and Energy Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 292

Frames for the Heat Transfer Equations 295

Material and Spatial Frames . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 295
Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames . . . . . . . . . 296

8 | CONTENTS
 References 300

Chapter 5: The Heat Transfer Module Interfaces

About the Heat Transfer Interfaces 307

Space Dimensions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
Study Types . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307
Versions of the Heat Transfer Physics Interface . . . . . . . . . . 308
Benefits of the Different Heat Transfer Interfaces . . . . . . . . . 308
Versions of the Heat Transfer in Shells Physics Interface . . . . . . . 309
Benefits of the Different Heat Transfer in Shells Interfaces . . . . . . 310
The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections . . . . . . . . 310
Using the Extra Dimension Coordinates . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314
Versions of the Moisture Transport Physics Interface . . . . . . . . 314
Benefits of the Different Moisture Transport Interfaces . . . . . . . 315
Additional physics options . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315
Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316
Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface . . . . . . . . . . 319

The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface 322

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface . . . . . . . 323

The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface 327

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface . . . . . . . 328

The Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface 331

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface . . . 331

The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface 332

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface . . . . 334

The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface 338

Settings for the Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface . . . . . 338
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface . . 338

CONTENTS |9
 The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface 340
Settings for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface . . . . . . . . 340
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface . . . . . 340

The Bioheat Transfer Interface 341

Feature Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface . . . . . . . . . 342

The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface 346

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface . . . . . . . 348

The Heat Transfer in Films Interface 350

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface . . . . . . . 352

The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface 354

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface . . . . . 356

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface 358

Settings for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface. . . . . . . . 359
Feature Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface . . . . . 362

The Radiation in Participating Media Interface 364

Settings for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface . . . . . . 364
Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface . . . . 367

The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface 369

Settings for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface . . . 369
Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 372

The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface 374

Settings for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface . . . . . 374
Feature Nodes for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface . . 375

The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface 377

Settings for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface . . . 377
Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials
Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 379

10 | C O N T E N T S
 The Moisture Transport in Air Interface 380
Settings for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface . . . . . . . . 380
Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface . . . . . . 382

Chapter 6: The Heat Transfer Features

Domain Features 384

Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) . . 385
Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 386
Bioheat . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 390
Biological Tissue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 392
Building Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 394
Convectively Enhanced Conductivity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 399
Cross Section . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 401
Fluid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 402
Geothermal Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 406
Heat Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 408
Immobile Fluids . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 411
Initial Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 414
Initial Values (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium interface) . . . . . 414
Irreversible Transformation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 415
Isothermal Domain . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 418
Moist Air (HT Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 420
Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . . . . . . 423
Optically Thick Participating Medium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 424
Out-of-Plane Heat Flux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 426
Out-of-Plane Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 428
Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface) . . . 430
Phase Change Material. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 434
Porous Medium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 438
Pressure Work . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 446
Shape Memory Alloy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 447
Solid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 450
Thermal Damage . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 454
Thermal Dispersion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 457

CONTENTS | 11
 Thermoelastic Damping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 459
Thickness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 460
Translational Motion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 461
Viscous Dissipation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 462

Boundary Features 464

Boundary Heat Source. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 466
Continuity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 469
Continuity (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces) . . . . . . . . . . . 470
Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating Medium
and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) . . . . . 470
Deposited Beam Power . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 471
Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . . . 473
Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . . . 474
External Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture) . . . . . . . 479
Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 480
Harmonic Perturbation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 484
Heat Flux. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 485
Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . . . . 489
Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture) . . . . . . . . . . . 491
Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) . . . . . . . . . . . 494
Incident Intensity (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) . . . 495
Inflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 497
Initial Values (Heat Transfer in Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . 498
Initial Values (Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface) . . . . . . . . 500
Isothermal Domain Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 501
Layer Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . . . 505
Line Heat Source on Axis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 506
Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . . . 506
Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) . . . . . . . . . . . 509
Opaque Surface (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) . . . 512
Open Boundary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 512
Outflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 513
Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer interface) . . . . . . . . . . . 514

12 | C O N T E N T S
Periodic Condition (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces) . . . . . . . . . . 515
Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . . . 515
Radiation Group (Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface) . . . . . . 519
Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) . . . 522
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Heat Transfer interface) . . . . . . . 525
Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 527
Symmetry (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) . . . . . . . . . . . 528
Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 528
Thermal Contact . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 530
Thermal Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 535
Thickness (Heat Transfer in Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . . 535
Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 536
Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 539
Transparent Surface (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) . . 543

Boundary Interface Features 545

Deposited Beam Power, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . 545
Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . 547
Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . 550
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells
Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 552
Temperature, interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . 555

Edge Features 557

Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . 557
Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture) . . . . . . . . . . . . 560
Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . . . . 562
Line Heat Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 565
Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer interface) and Continuity (Heat
Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 567
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 568
Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) . . . . . . . . 571
Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in

CONTENTS | 13
 Shells). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 573
Thin Rod . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 575

Point Features 577

Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 577
Point Heat Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 578
Point Heat Source on Axis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 579
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Rod) . . . . . . . . . . . . 580
Temperature (Thin Rod) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 581

Global Features 583

External Radiation Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 583
Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface Radiation . . . . . . . . . . . . 588

Chapter 7: The Moisture Transport Features

Domain Features 594

Building Material . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 594
Initial Values . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 596
Moist Air (MT Interface) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 597
Moisture Source . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 599
Turbulent Mixing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 599

Boundary Features 601

Continuity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 601
Insulation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 602
Moist Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 602
Moisture Content . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 604
Moisture Flux . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 605
Outflow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 607
Symmetry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 607
Thin Moisture Barrier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 608
Wet Surface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 609

14 | C O N T E N T S
Chapter 8: Multiphysics Interfaces

The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer

Interfaces 614
Advantages of Using the Multiphysics Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . 614
The Nonisothermal Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 615
The Conjugate Heat Transfer, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 616
Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features . . . . . . . . 617
Coupling Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 618
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 618
Preset Studies . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 619

The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

620
The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Multiphysics
Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 620
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 621
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 622

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media

Interface 623
The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media Multiphysics
Interface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 623
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 624
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 625

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering

Media Interface 626
The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
Multiphysics Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 626
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 627
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 628

The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media

CONTENTS | 15
 Interface 629
The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
Multiphysics Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 629
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 630

The Thermoelectric Effect Interface 631

About The Thermoelectric Effect Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . 631
Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features . . . . . . . . 632
Coupling Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 633
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 634

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface 635

About the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface . . . . . . . . 635
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 636
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 636

The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces 637

The Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics Interfaces . . . . . . 637
The Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture Transport
Multiphysics Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 637
Physics Interface Features in the Building Materials Version . . . . . . 639
The Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport
Multiphysics Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 639
Physics Interface Features in the Moist Air Version . . . . . . . . . 641
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 642

The Moisture Flow Interfaces 643

The Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Multiphysics
Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 643
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 645
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 646

The Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces 648

The Heat and Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow
Multiphysics Interfaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 648
Coupling Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 652
Physics Interface Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 652

16 | C O N T E N T S
 The Joule Heating Interface 654
The Joule Heating Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 654
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 654

The Laser Heating Interface 655

The Laser Heating Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 655
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 655

The Induction Heating Interface 656

The Induction Heating Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 656
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 656

The Microwave Heating Interface 657

The Microwave Heating Interface . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 657
Coupling Feature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 657

Chapter 9: Multiphysics Couplings

Domain Multiphysics Couplings 661

Electromagnetic Heating . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 661
Flow Coupling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 662
Heat and Moisture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 664
Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media . . . . . . . . . 666
Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media . . . . . 667
Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media . . . . . . . 669
Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 670
Moisture Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 672
Nonisothermal Flow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 675
Temperature Coupling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 679
Thermal Expansion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 679
Thermoelectric Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 680

Boundary Multiphysics Couplings 683

Electromagnetic Heating, Layered Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . 683
Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation . . . . . . . . . . 685
Marangoni Effect . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 687

CONTENTS | 17
 Thermal Expansion, Layered Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 689
Thermoelectric Effect, Layered Shell . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 689

Index 693

18 | C O N T E N T S
 1

Introduction

This guide describes the Heat Transfer Module, an optional package that extends
the COMSOL Multiphysics® modeling environment with customized physics
interfaces for the analysis of heat transfer.

This chapter introduces you to the capabilities of this module. A summary of the
physics interfaces and where you can find documentation and model examples is
also included. The last section is a brief overview with links to each chapter in this
guide.

• About the Heat Transfer Module

• Overview of the User’s Guide

19
 About the Heat Transfer Module
In this section:

• Why Heat Transfer is Important to Modeling

• How the Heat Transfer Module Improves Your Modeling
• The Heat Transfer Module Physics Interface Guide
• Common Physics Interface and Feature Settings and Nodes
• The Heat Transfer Module Study Capabilities
• Additional Materials Database
• Where Do I Access the Documentation and Application Libraries?

The Physics Interfaces and Building a COMSOL Multiphysics Model in

the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Why Heat Transfer is Important to Modeling

The Heat Transfer Module is an optional package that extends the COMSOL
Multiphysics modeling environment with customized physics interfaces and
functionality optimized for the analysis of heat transfer. It is developed for a wide
audience including researchers, developers, teachers, and students. To assist users at all
levels of expertise, this module comes with a library of ready-to-run examples that
appear in the companion Heat Transfer Module Applications Libraries.

Heat transfer is involved in almost every kind of physical process, and can in fact be the
limiting factor for many processes. Therefore, its study is of vital importance, and the
need for powerful heat transfer analysis tools is virtually universal. Furthermore, heat
transfer often appears together with, or as a result of, other physical phenomena.

The modeling of heat transfer effects has become increasingly important in product
design including areas such as electronics, automotive, and medical industries.
Computer simulation has allowed engineers and researchers to optimize process
efficiency and explore new designs, while at the same time reducing the need for costly
experimental trials.

20 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
How the Heat Transfer Module Improves Your Modeling
The Heat Transfer Module has been developed to greatly expand upon the base
capabilities available in COMSOL Multiphysics. The module supports all fundamental
mechanisms including conductive, convective, and radiative heat transfer. Using the
physics interfaces in this module along with the inherent multiphysics capabilities of
COMSOL Multiphysics, you can model a temperature field in parallel with other
physics — a versatile combination increasing the accuracy and predicting power of your
models.

This book introduces the basic modeling process. The different physics interfaces are
described and the modeling strategy for various cases is discussed. These sections cover
different combinations of conductive, convective, and radiative heat transfer. This
guide also reviews special modeling techniques for thin layers, thin shells, participating
media, and out-of-plane heat transfer. Throughout the guide the topics and examples
increase in complexity by combining several heat transfer mechanisms and also by
coupling these to physics interfaces describing fluid flow — conjugate heat transfer.

Another source of information is the Heat Transfer Module Applications Libraries, a

set of fully-documented examples that is divided into broadly defined application areas
where heat transfer plays an important role — electronics and power systems,
processing and manufacturing, and medical technology — and includes tutorial and
verification models.

Most of the examples involve multiple heat transfer mechanisms and are often coupled
to other physical phenomena, for example, fluid dynamics, moisture transport, or
electromagnetics. The authors developed several state-of-the art examples by
reproducing examples that have appeared in international scientific journals. See
Where Do I Access the Documentation and Application Libraries?.

The Heat Transfer Module Physics Interface Guide

The table below lists all the physics interfaces specifically available with this module.
Having this module also enhances these COMSOL Multiphysics basic interfaces: Heat
Transfer in Fluids, Heat Transfer in Solids, Joule Heating, and the Single-Phase Flow,
Laminar interface.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 21

 If you have a Subsurface Flow Module combined with the Heat Transfer Module, this
module also enhances the Heat Transfer in Porous Media interface.

The Nonisothermal Flow, Laminar Flow (nitf) and Nonisothermal Flow,

Turbulent Flow (nitf) interfaces found under the Fluid
Flow>Nonisothermal Flow branch are identical to the Conjugate Heat
Transfer interfaces (Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow) found under the
Heat Transfer>Conjugate Heat Transfer branch. The difference is that Fluid
is the default domain node for the Nonisothermal Flow interfaces.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual:

• Studies and Solvers

• The Physics Interfaces
• For a list of all the core physics interfaces included with a COMSOL
Multiphysics license, see Physics Interface Guide.

PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY

DIMENSION TYPE

Chemical Species Transport

Moisture Transport

Moisture Transport in mt all dimensions stationary; time dependent

Building Materials
Moisture Transport in mt all dimensions stationary; time dependent
Air
Moisture Flow

Laminar Flow(2) — all dimensions stationary; time dependent

Turbulent Flow

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

Algebraic yPlus(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization

22 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

L-VEL(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
axisymmetric
Turbulent Flow, Low — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
Re k-ε(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Fluid Flow

Single-Phase Flow

Laminar Flow(1) spf 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent

axisymmetric
Turbulent Flow

Turbulent Flow, spf 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

Algebraic yPlus axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Turbulent Flow, L-VEL spf 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Turbulent Flow, k-ε spf 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
axisymmetric
Turbulent Flow, Low spf 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
Re k-ε axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Nonisothermal Flow

Laminar Flow(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent

axisymmetric
Turbulent Flow

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

Algebraic yPlus(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 23

 PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

L-VEL(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
axisymmetric
Turbulent Flow, Low — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
Re k-ε(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization
Heat Transfer

Heat Transfer in Solids(1) ht all dimensions stationary; time dependent;

thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Heat Transfer in Fluids(1) ht all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Heat Transfer in Solids and ht all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
Fluids(1) thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Conjugate Heat Transfer

Laminar Flow(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;

axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Turbulent Flow

24 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

Algebraic yPlus(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization; stationary,
one-way coupled, NITF;
time dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF
Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
L-VEL(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization; stationary,
one-way coupled, NITF;
time dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Turbulent Flow, Low — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
Re k-ε(2) axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Radiation

Heat Transfer with — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;

Surface-to-Surface thermal perturbation,
Radiation(2) frequency domain
Heat Transfer with — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
Radiation in axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
Participating Media(2) frequency domain
Heat Transfer with — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
Radiation in axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
Absorbing-Scattering frequency domain
Media(2)

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 25

 PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Heat Transfer with — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;

Radiative Beam in axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
Absorbing Media(2) frequency domain
Surface-to-Surface rad all dimensions stationary; time dependent
Radiation
Radiation in rpm 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
Participating Media axisymmetric
Radiation in rasm 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
Absorbing-Scattering axisymmetric
Media
Radiative Beam in rbam 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent
Absorbing Media axisymmetric
Electromagnetic Heating

Joule Heating(1,2) — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;

thermal perturbation,
frequency domain
Thin Structures

Heat Transfer in Shells htlsh 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;

axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Heat Transfer in Films htlsh 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Heat Transfer in Fractures htlsh 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
axisymmetric thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Heat and Moisture Transport

26 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Building Materials(2) — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;

thermal perturbation,
frequency domain
Moist Air(2) — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
thermal perturbation,
frequency domain
Heat and Moisture Flow

Laminar Flow(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;

axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; one-way
coupled, MF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, MF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Turbulent Flow

Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with

Algebraic yPlus(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization; stationary,
one-way coupled, NITF;
time dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; one-way
coupled, MF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, MF
Turbulent Flow, — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary with
L-VEL(2) axisymmetric initialization; transient with
initialization; stationary,
one-way coupled, NITF;
time dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; one-way
coupled, MF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, MF

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 27

 PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;

axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; one-way
coupled, MF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, MF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Turbulent Flow, Low — 3D, 2D, 2D stationary; time dependent;
Re k-ε(2) axisymmetric stationary, one-way
coupled, NITF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, NITF; one-way
coupled, MF; time
dependent, one-way
coupled, MF; thermal
perturbation, frequency
domain
Heat Transfer in Porous ht all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
Media thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Local Thermal — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
Non-Equilibrium(2) thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency
Bioheat Transfer ht all dimensions stationary; time dependent;
thermal perturbation,
frequency domain; thermal
perturbation,
eigenfrequency

28 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
PHYSICS INTERFACE ICON TAG SPACE AVAILABLE PRESET STUDY
DIMENSION TYPE

Thermoelectric Effect(2) — all dimensions stationary; time dependent;

thermal perturbation,
frequency domain
(1)
This physics interface is included with the core COMSOL package but has added
functionality for this module.
(2) This physics interface is a predefined multiphysics coupling that automatically adds all the
physics interfaces and coupling features required.

Common Physics Interface and Feature Settings and Nodes

There are several common settings and sections available for the physics interfaces and
feature nodes. Some of these sections also have similar settings or are implemented in
the same way no matter the physics interface or feature being used. There are also some
physics feature nodes that display in COMSOL Multiphysics.

In each module’s documentation, only unique or extra information is included;

standard information and procedures are centralized in the COMSOL Multiphysics
Reference Manual.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for

links to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes.
You can also search for information: press F1 to open the Help
window or Ctrl+F1 to open the Documentation window.

The Heat Transfer Module Study Capabilities

Table 1-1 lists the Preset Studies available for the physics interfaces most relevant to
this module.

Studies and Solvers in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 29

 TABLE 1-1: HEAT TRANSFER MODULE DEPENDENT VARIABLES AND PRESET STUDY AVAILABILITY
1
PHYSICS INTERFACE NAME DEPENDENT PRESET STUDIES
VARIABLES

THERMAL PERTURBATION, FREQUENCY

STATIONARY WITH INITIALIZATION

TRANSIENT WITH INITIALIZATION

THERMAL PERTURBATION,
EIGENFREQUENCY
TIME DEPENDENT
STATIONARY

DOMAIN
CHEMICAL SPECIES TRANSPORT>MOISTURE TRANSPORT

Moisture Transport in Building mt φ √ √

Materials
Moisture Transport in Air mt φ √ √
CHEMICAL SPECIES TRANSPORT>MOISTURE FLOW

Laminar Flow(2) — u, p, φ √ √
Turbulent flow, Algebraic — u, p, G, √ √
yPlus(2) yPlus, φ
Turbulent flow, L-VEL(2) — u, p, G, √ √
uPlus, φ
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, φ √ √
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, G, √ √
φ
FLUID FLOW>SINGLE-PHASE FLOW

Laminar Flow spf u, p √ √

Turbulent flow, Algebraic yPlus spf u, p, G, yPlus √ √
Turbulent flow, L-VEL spf u, p, G, √ √
uPlus
Turbulent Flow, k-ε spf u, p, k, ep √ √
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε spf u, p, k, ep, G √ √
FLUID FLOW>NONISOTHERMAL FLOW

Laminar Flow(2) — u, p, T √ √

30 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
TABLE 1-1: HEAT TRANSFER MODULE DEPENDENT VARIABLES AND PRESET STUDY AVAILABILITY
1
PHYSICS INTERFACE NAME DEPENDENT PRESET STUDIES
VARIABLES

THERMAL PERTURBATION, FREQUENCY

STATIONARY WITH INITIALIZATION

TRANSIENT WITH INITIALIZATION

THERMAL PERTURBATION,
EIGENFREQUENCY
TIME DEPENDENT
STATIONARY

DOMAIN
Turbulent flow, Algebraic — u, p, G, √ √
yPlus(2) yPlus, T
Turbulent flow, L-VEL(2) — u, p, G, √ √
uPlus, T
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, T √ √
(2)
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε — u, p, k, ep, G, √ √
T
HEAT TRANSFER

Heat Transfer in Solids ht T √ √ √ √

Heat Transfer in Fluids ht T √ √ √ √
Heat Transfer in Solids and ht T √ √ √ √
Fluids
HEAT TRANSFER>CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER

Laminar Flow(2) — u, p, T √ √
Turbulent flow, Algebraic — u, p, G, √ √
yPlus(2) yPlus, T
Turbulent flow, L-VEL(2) — u, p, G, √ √
uPlus, T
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, T √ √
(2)
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε — u, p, k, ep, G, √ √
T
HEAT TRANSFER>RADIATION

Heat Transfer with — T, J √ √ √ √

Surface-to-Surface Radiation(2)

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 31

 TABLE 1-1: HEAT TRANSFER MODULE DEPENDENT VARIABLES AND PRESET STUDY AVAILABILITY
1
PHYSICS INTERFACE NAME DEPENDENT PRESET STUDIES
VARIABLES

THERMAL PERTURBATION, FREQUENCY

STATIONARY WITH INITIALIZATION

TRANSIENT WITH INITIALIZATION

THERMAL PERTURBATION,
EIGENFREQUENCY
TIME DEPENDENT
STATIONARY

DOMAIN
Heat Transfer with Radiation in — T, I (radiative √ √ √ √
Participating Media(2) intensity)
Heat Transfer with Radiation in — T, I (radiative √ √ √ √
Absorbing-Scattering Media(2) intensity)
Heat Transfer with Radiative — T, I (radiative √ √ √ √
Beam in Absorbing Media(2) intensity)
Surface-to-Surface Radiation rad J √ √
Radiation in Participating rpm I (radiative √ √
Media intensity)
Radiation in rasm I (radiative √ √
Absorbing-Scattering Media intensity)
Radiative Beam in Absorbing rbam I (radiative √ √
Media intensity)
HEAT TRANSFER>ELECTROMAGNETIC HEATING

Joule Heating(2) — T, V √ √ √
HEAT TRANSFER>THIN STRUCURES

Heat Transfer in Shells htlsh T √ √ √ √

Heat Transfer in Films htlsh T √ √ √ √
Heat Transfer in Fractures htlsh T √ √ √ √
Heat Transfer>Heat and
Moisture Transport
Building Materials(2) — T, φ √ √
Moist Air(2) — T, φ √ √

32 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
TABLE 1-1: HEAT TRANSFER MODULE DEPENDENT VARIABLES AND PRESET STUDY AVAILABILITY
1
PHYSICS INTERFACE NAME DEPENDENT PRESET STUDIES
VARIABLES

THERMAL PERTURBATION, FREQUENCY

STATIONARY WITH INITIALIZATION

TRANSIENT WITH INITIALIZATION

THERMAL PERTURBATION,
EIGENFREQUENCY
TIME DEPENDENT
STATIONARY

DOMAIN
Heat Transfer>Heat and
Moisture Transport>Heat and
Moisture Flow
Laminar Flow(2) — u, p, T, φ √ √
Turbulent flow, Algebraic — u, p, G, √ √
yPlus(2) yPlus, T, φ
Turbulent flow, L-VEL(2) — u, p, G, √ √
uPlus, T, φ
Turbulent Flow, k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, T, √ √
φ
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε(2) — u, p, k, ep, G, √ √
T, φ
Heat Transfer in Porous Media ht T √ √ √ √
Bioheat Transfer ht T √ √ √ √
(2)
Thermoelectric Effect — T √ √ √ √
1
Custom studies are also available based on the physics interface.
2 Multiphysics interfaces.

Additional Materials Database

The Heat Transfer Module includes additional material databases:

• The Liquids and Gases material database provides temperature-dependent fluid

dynamic and thermal properties (dynamic viscosity, heat capacity at constant
pressure, density, and thermal conductivity).

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 33

 • The Bioheat material database contains materials used with the Bioheat Transfer
interface. In addition to thermal properties (heat capacity at constant pressure,
density, and thermal conductivity), properties for thermal damage analysis of
biological tissues are provided.
• The Building material database contains hygroscopic and thermal properties for
materials used with the Moisture Transport interface.

For detailed information, see Liquids and Gases Materials Database,

Bioheat Materials Database, Building Materials Database, and Materials
in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Where Do I Access the Documentation and Application Libraries?

A number of internet resources have more information about COMSOL, including
licensing and technical information. The electronic documentation, topic-based (or
context-based) help, and the application libraries are all accessed through the
COMSOL Desktop.

If you are reading the documentation as a PDF file on your computer,

the blue links do not work to open an application or content
referenced in a different guide. However, if you are using the Help
system in COMSOL Multiphysics, these links work to open other
modules, application examples, and documentation sets.

THE DOCUMENTATION AND ONLINE HELP

The COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual describes the core physics interfaces
and functionality included with the COMSOL Multiphysics license. This book also has
instructions about how to use COMSOL Multiphysics and how to access the
electronic Documentation and Help content.

Opening Topic-Based Help

The Help window is useful as it is connected to many of the features on the GUI. To
learn more about a node in the Model Builder, or a window on the Desktop, click to
highlight a node or window, then press F1 to open the Help window, which then

34 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
displays information about that feature (or click a node in the Model Builder followed
by the Help button ( ). This is called topic-based (or context) help.

To open the Help window:

• In the Model Builder, Application Builder, or Physics Builder click a node or

window and then press F1.
• On any toolbar (for example, Home, Definitions, or Geometry), hover the
mouse over a button (for example, Add Physics or Build All) and then
press F1.
• From the File menu, click Help ( ).
• In the upper-right corner of the COMSOL Desktop, click the Help ( )
button.

To open the Help window:

• In the Model Builder or Physics Builder click a node or window and then
press F1.
• On the main toolbar, click the Help ( ) button.
• From the main menu, select Help>Help.

Opening the Documentation Window

To open the Documentation window:

• Press Ctrl+F1.
• From the File menu select Help>Documentation ( ).

To open the Documentation window:

• Press Ctrl+F1.
• On the main toolbar, click the Documentation ( ) button.
• From the main menu, select Help>Documentation.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 35

 THE APPLICATION LIBRARIES WINDOW
Each application includes documentation with the theoretical background and
step-by-step instructions to create a model application. The applications are available
in COMSOL as MPH-files that you can open for further investigation. You can use the
step-by-step instructions and the actual applications as a template for your own
modeling and applications. In most models, SI units are used to describe the relevant
properties, parameters, and dimensions in most examples, but other unit systems are
available.

Once the Application Libraries window is opened, you can search by name or browse
under a module folder name. Click to view a summary of the application and its
properties, including options to open it or a PDF document.

The Application Libraries Window in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Opening the Application Libraries Window

To open the Application Libraries window ( ):

• From the Home toolbar, Windows menu, click ( ) Applications

Libraries.
• From the File menu select Application Libraries.

To include the latest versions of model examples, from the File>Help

menu, select ( ) Update COMSOL Application Library.

Select Application Libraries from the main File> or Windows> menus.

To include the latest versions of model examples, from the Help menu
select ( ) Update COMSOL Application Library.

CONTACTING COMSOL BY EMAIL

For general product information, contact COMSOL at info@comsol.com.

To receive technical support from COMSOL for the COMSOL products, please
contact your local COMSOL representative or send your questions to

36 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
support@comsol.com. An automatic notification and case number is sent to you by
email.

COMSOL WEBSITES

COMSOL website www.comsol.com

Contact COMSOL www.comsol.com/contact
Support Center www.comsol.com/support
Product Download www.comsol.com/product-download
Product Updates www.comsol.com/support/updates
Discussion Forum www.comsol.com/community
Events www.comsol.com/events
COMSOL Video Gallery www.comsol.com/video
Support Knowledge Base www.comsol.com/support/knowledgebase

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE | 37

 Overview of the User’s Guide
This Heat Transfer Module User’s Guide gets you started with modeling heat transfer
using COMSOL Multiphysics. The information in this guide is specific to this module.
Instructions on how to use COMSOL in general are included with the COMSOL
Multiphysics Reference Manual.

As detailed in the section Where Do I Access the Documentation and

Application Libraries? this information can also be searched from the
COMSOL Multiphysics Help menu in the COMSOL Desktop.

TABLE OF CONTENTS, NOTATIONS AND INDEX

To help you navigate through this guide, see the Contents, Notations, and Index.

MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The Modeling with the Heat Transfer Module chapter includes the following topics:

• Heat Transfer Variables

• Moisture Transport Variables
• Using the Boundary Conditions for the Heat Transfer Interfaces
• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer
• Heat Transfer Consistent and Inconsistent Stabilization Methods
• Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Coupling
• Boundary Wall Temperature
• Solver Settings
• Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra Dimensions
• Ambient Thermal Properties
• Modeling Heat Transfer by Radiation
• Heat Part Library

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The Theory for the Heat Transfer Module chapter includes the theory related to the
heat transfer and moisture transport interfaces and multiphysics interfaces, and also to
some nodes.

38 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
After the establishment of the heat balance equation from the energy conservation laws
in Foundations of the General Heat Transfer Equation, the various versions of the heat
equation solved in COMSOL Multiphysics are presented in the following sections:

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids
• Theory for Bioheat Transfer
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous Media
• Theory for Heat Transfer with Phase Change
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Building Materials
• Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer
• Theory for Lumped Isothermal Domain
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures
• Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media
• Theory for Moisture Transport
Then the theory related to multiphysics interfaces is described in Theory for the Heat
Transfer Multiphysics Couplings.

Finally, topics related to specific features or variables are treated in Theory for Thermal
Contact, Moist Air Fluid Type, Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer, The Heat Transfer
Coefficients, Equivalent Thermal Conductivity Correlations, Temperature
Dependence of Surface Tension, Heat Flux and Heat Balance, and Frames for the Heat
Transfer Equations.

THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Heat Transfer Module Interfaces chapter describes the main Heat Transfer
interface (ht) that forms the backbone for all the fundamental interfaces in this
module, and the other interfaces (Heat Transfer in Shells (htlsh), Radiation in
Participating Media (rpm), Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media (rasm), Radiative
Beam in Absorbing Media (rbam), Surface-to-Surface Radiation (rad), and Moisture
Transport (mt)).

The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface, The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface, and The
Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface discuss modeling heat transfer in solids
and fluids.

OVERVIEW OF THE USER’S GUIDE | 39

 The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface section discusses modeling heat transfer
in porous media.

The particular case of heat transfer in moist air and building materials is considered in
The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface and The Heat Transfer in Building Materials
Interface sections.

The Bioheat Transfer Interface section discusses modeling heat transfer within
biological tissue using the Bioheat Transfer interface.

The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface, The Heat Transfer in Films Interface, and The
Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface sections describe the physics interfaces which are
suitable for solving thermal conduction, convection, and radiation problems in layered
materials defined on boundaries.

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface, The Radiation in Participating Media

Interface, The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface, and The Radiative
Beam in Absorbing Media Interface sections discuss the modeling of radiative heat
transfer in transparent and participating media.

Finally, The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface and The Moisture
Transport in Air Interface sections describe the modeling of moisture transfer in a
porous medium through moisture storage, vapor diffusion and capillary moisture
flows; or in air, through convection and diffusion.

THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The Heat Transfer Features chapter describes the Domain Features, Boundary
Features, Edge Features, Point Features, and Global Features available with the Heat
Transfer interfaces.

THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

The Moisture Transport Features chapter describes the Domain Features and
Boundary Features available with the Moisture Transport interface.

THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Multiphysics Interfaces chapter describes the predefined multiphysics interfaces.

The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Interfaces chapter describes
the multiphysics versions of both the Nonisothermal Flow Laminar Flow and
Turbulent Flow interfaces found under the Fluid Flow branch, which are identical to
the Conjugate Heat Transfer interfaces. Each section describes the applicable physics
interfaces in detail and concludes with the underlying theory.

40 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface section describes the
predefined multiphysics interface used to model heat transfer by conduction,
convection, and radiation in a transparent media.

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media Interface section describes
the predefined multiphysics interface used to model heat transfer by conduction,
convection, and radiation in semi-transparent media. The radiative intensity equations
are approximated by the Discrete Ordinates Method or the P1 Approximation. When
no emission should be considered, see the The Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface section.

The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface section
describes the predefined multiphysics interface used to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in semi-transparent media. The Beer-Lambert
law is used for the approximation of the radiative intensity.

The Thermoelectric Effect Interface section describes the predefined multiphysics

interface used to model the Peltier-Seebeck-Thomson effect.

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface section describes the predefined

multiphysics interface used to model heat transfer in porous media when there is no
thermal equilibrium between porous and fluid phases.

The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces section describes the predefined
multiphysics interfaces used to model coupled heat and moisture transport either in
building materials, by taking into account heat and moisture storage, latent heat
effects, and liquid and convective transport of moisture; or in moist air by convection
and diffusion of moisture and heat.

The Moisture Flow Interfaces section describes the predefined multiphysics interfaces
used to model moisture transport in air by laminar and turbulent flows.

The Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces section describes the predefined multiphysics
interfaces used to model heat transfer and moisture transport in air by laminar and
turbulent flows.

THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

The Multiphysics Couplings chapter describes the Domain Multiphysics Couplings
and the Boundary Multiphysics Couplings available with the predefined multiphysics
interfaces.

OVERVIEW OF THE USER’S GUIDE | 41

42 | CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
 2

Notations

This chapter introduces the notations used in the remaining of the guide. The
notations are listed by alphabetical order and grouped in two tables, for Latin and
Greek symbols.

For each entry the SI unit and a short description are given.

43
 LATIN SYMBOLS

NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

A 1/s Frequency factor, damage integral analysis

A m2 Total boundaries area
a1,..., a12 dimensionless Legendre coefficients
Ac m2 Cross sectional area of domain
Al m2 Cross sectional area of thin rod
asf 1/m Specific surface area
Bi m Spectral band i
b dimensionless Thermal conductivity supplement
c mol/m3 Concentration
c kg/m3 Concentration
cl mol/m2 Liquid water concentration on moist surface
Cp, b J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, blood
Cp, l J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of thin rod
Cμ dimensionless Turbulence modeling constant
Cp J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure
Cp, a J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, dry air
Cp, A J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, Austenite state
Cp, d J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, damaged tissue
Cp, f J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, fluid phase
Cp, fr J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of solid material in
fracture
Cp, g J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of immobile fluid
in porous media
Cp, gi J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of immobile fluid i
in porous media
Cp, m J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, mixture (moist
air)
Cp, M J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, Martensite state
Cp, p J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of solid material in
porous media
Cp, pi J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of solid material i
in porous media

44 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

Cp, s J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, solid phase

Cp, s J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of dry solid
Cp, v J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure, water vapor
Cp, s J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of thin layer
csat mol/m3 Saturation concentration of water vapor
Cp, si J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of layer i in thin
layer
Cp, w J/(kg·K) Specific heat capacity at constant pressure of water
cv mol/m3 Water vapor concentration
d m Average particle diameter
D m Cylinder diameter (heat transfer coefficient)
D m Cylinder or sphere diameter (heat transfer coefficient)
D W/(m·K) Dispersion tensor
D m Parallel-plate gap average gas particle diameter
D 1/s Strain-rate tensor
2
D m /s Vapor diffusion coefficient in air
Da dimensionless Darcy number
ΔE J/mol Activation energy, damage integral analysis
df m Thickness of thin film
dfr m Thickness of fracture
DP1 m2/s P1 method diffusion coefficient
ds m Thickness of shell or thin layer
dsi m Thickness of layer i in thin layer
2
DT m /s Turbulent diffusivity
Dw m2/s Moisture diffusivity
dz m Thickness of domain in the out-of-plane direction
DPTamb K Ambient dew point temperature
e m Beam orientation
E J/kg Internal energy
E Pa Young’s modulus
E0 J/kg Total internal energy
EΩ J Internal energy of a body

| 45
 NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

eb, λ(λ, T) W/m2 Blackbody spectral emissive power

eb(T) W/m2 Blackbody total emissive power
Econtact Pa Effective contact interface Young’s modulus
Ed Pa Young’s modulus, down contact surface
Ek J/kg Kinetic energy
ep m2/s3 Turbulent dissipation rate
Ep J/kg Potential energy
Eu Pa Young’s modulus, up contact surface
etot W/m2 Total energy flux
F N/m3 Body force vector
F dimensionless Deformation gradient tensor
Famb dimensionless Ambient view factor
Famb, d dimensionless Ambient view factor, downside
Famb, u dimensionless Ambient view factor, upside
g m/s2 Acceleration of gravity
gevap kg/(m2·s) Evaporation flux
G W/m3 Moisture source
G 1/m Reciprocal wall distance
G W/m2 Surface irradiation
Gamb W/m2 Ambient irradiation
Gamb, d W/m2 Ambient irradiation, downside
Gamb, u W/m2 Ambient irradiation, upside
Gd W/m2 Surface irradiation, downside
Gext W/m2 External irradiation
Gext, d W/m2 External irradiation, downside
Gext, u W/m2 External irradiation, upside
2
Gm W/m Mutual surface irradiation
2
Gm, d W/m Mutual surface irradiation, downside
Gm, u W/m2 Mutual surface irradiation, upside
GrL dimensionless Grashof number associated with characteristic length L
2
Gu W/m Surface irradiation, upside
H m Chimney height (heat transfer coefficient)

46 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

H J/kg Enthalpy
h W/(m2·K) Gap conductance (thermal contact)
h W/(m2·K) Heat transfer coefficient
H0 J/kg Total enthalpy
HB Pa Brinell hardness
hc W/(m2·K) Constriction conductance
Hc Pa Microhardness
hd W/(m2·K) Out-of-plane heat transfer coefficient, downside
Hd J/kg Enthalpy, downside
Hext J/kg External enthalpy
hg W/(m2·K) Parallel-plate gap gas conductance
hm m/s Moisture transfer coefficient
hr W/(m2·K) Radiative conductance
Href J/kg Reference enthalpy
hsf W/(m2·K) Interstitial heat transfer coefficient
hth W/K Thermal conductance (isothermal domain interface)
hu W/(m2·K) Out-of-plane heat transfer coefficient, upside
Hu J/kg Enthalpy, upside
hz W/(m2·K) Out-of-plane heat transfer coefficient, 1D
I(Ω) W/(m2·sr) Radiative intensity traveling in direction Ω
Ib(T) W/(m2·sr) Blackbody radiative intensity
Idiff W/m2 Diffuse irradiance
Iext W/(m2·sr) Incident radiative intensity
Ii W/(m2·sr) Radiative intensity traveling in ith discrete direction
is dimensionless Incident radiation direction (external radiation source)
Is W/m2 Solar irradiance
2
Is,amb W/m Ambient solar irradiance
2
Ish,amb W/m Clear sky noon diffuse horizontal irradiance
Isn,amb W/m2 Clear sky noon beam normal irradiance
isx, isy, dimensionless Solar source direction vector components
isz
Iwall W/(m2·sr) Boundary radiative intensity

| 47
 NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

J W/m2 Surface radiosity

Jd W/m2 Surface radiosity, downside
Ju W/m2 Surface radiosity, upside
k W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity
k J/kg Turbulent kinetic energy (turbulent nonisothermal flow)
ka W/(m·K) Dry air thermal conductivity
kA W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of Austenite state
kB J/K Stefan-Boltzmann constant
kbnd W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity in shell local coordinate system
kcontact W/(m·K) Harmonic mean of contacting surface conductivities
kd W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity, damaged tissue
kdisp W/(m·K) Dispersive thermal conductivity tensor
keff W/(m·K) Effective thermal conductivity
kf W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity, fluid phase
kfr W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of solid material in fracture
kg W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of immobile fluid in porous media
kgap W/(m·K) Parallel-plate gap gas thermal conductivity
kgi W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of immobile fluid i in porous media
kl W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of thin rod
kL W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of mobile fluid in porous media
kM W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of Martensite state
kp W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of solid material in porous media
kpi W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of solid material i in porous media
kR W/(m·K) Rosseland radiative conductivity
ks W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of thin layer
ks W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity, solid phase
ks W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of dry solid
ksi W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity of layer i in thin layer
kT W/(m·K) Turbulent thermal conductivity
kv W/(m·K) Water vapor thermal conductivity
K m/s Evaporation rate factor
KΩ J Kinetic energy of a body

48 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

L J/kg Latent heat

L m Total edge length
L m Wall height or plate diameter, distance or length (heat
transfer coefficient)
Ld, c J/kg Damage enthalpy change, cryogenic analysis
Ld, h J/kg Damage enthalpy change, hyperthermia analysis
Lit, c J/kg Transformation enthalpy change, overcooling analysis
Lit, h J/kg Transformation enthalpy change, overheating analysis
Lv J/kg Latent heat of evaporation
m kg Mass
ma kg Dry air mass
Ma kg/mol Dry air molar mass
masp m Asperities average slope (surface roughness)
Mg m Parallel-plate gap gas parameter
Mn kg/mol Mean molar mass
mtot kg Total mass (moist air)
mv kg Water vapor mass
Mv kg/mol Water vapor molar mass
n dimensionless Refractive index, transparent media
n dimensionless Normal vector toward exterior
na mol Amount of dry air
nr dimensionless Refractive index, participating media
ntot mol Amount of moist air
Nu dimensionless Nusselt number
NuL dimensionless Nusselt number associated with characteristic length L
nv mol Amount of water vapor
O m Beam origin point
p Pa Contact pressure, pressure
P N/m2 First Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor
P V Peltier coefficient
P0 W Heat rate
pa Pa Dry air partial pressure

| 49
 NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

pA Pa Absolute pressure
Pb W Heat rate, boundary heat source
Pc m Cross sectional perimeter of domain
pext Pa External absolute pressure
Pext W Power of applied forces
pgap Pa Parallel-plate gap gas pressure
Pindex dimensionless Performance index of the discrete ordinates method
Pl W Heat rate, line heat source, deposited beam power
Pr dimensionless Prandtl number
pamb Pa Ambient absolute pressure
pref Pa Reference pressure
PrT dimensionless Turbulent Prandtl number
Ps W Heat rate, layer heat source
Ps W Source power (external radiation source)
psat Pa Saturation pressure of water vapor
Pstr W Stress power
pustr Pa Upstream absolute pressure
pv Pa Water vapor partial pressure
q W/m2 Conductive heat flux
qf W/m2 Conductive heat flux in fluid phase
qs W/m2 Conductive heat flux in solid phase
Q W/m3 Heat source
q0 W/m2 Inward heat flux
Q0 W/m3 Distributed heat source
q0, d W/m2 Out-of-plane heat flux, downside
q0, s W/m2 Source heat flux (external radiation source)
2
q0, u W/m Out-of-plane heat flux, upside
2
Qb W/m Boundary heat source
Qb, tot W/m2 Total boundary heat source
3
Qe W/m Electromagnetic heat source
2
qevap W/m Latent heat source
Qexch W Exchanged heat source rate

50 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

Qf W/m3 Heat source in fluid phase

qgeo W/kg Radiogenic heating per mass
Qgeo W/m3 Geothermal heat source
QInt W Total heat source over interior boundaries
Qit W/m3 Irreversible transformation heat source
Ql W/m Line heat source
Qmet W/m3 Metabolic heat source
Qp W Point heat source
Qp W/m3 Pressure work
Qr W/m3 Radiative heat source term
qr W/m2 Radiative heat flux
qr, net W/m2 Net radiative heat flux
qr, out W/m2 Radiative heat flux striking the wall
qs W/(m3·K) Production/absorption coefficient
Qs W/m3 Heat source in solid phase
Qs W/m3 Thin layer heat source
qsf W/(m3·K) Interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient
Qsi W/m3 Layer i heat source
Qted W/m3 Thermoelastic damping
qtot W/m2 Total heat flux
Qtot W/m3 Total domain heat source
Qvd W/m3 Viscous dissipation
r m Distance of the irradiated surface from the source
r dimensionless Heat partition coefficient (thermal friction)
R m Heat source radius, beam radius
R J/(mol·K) Universal gas constant
Ra dimensionless Rayleigh number
RaD dimensionless Rayleigh number associated with cylinder diameter D
RaL dimensionless Rayleigh number associated with characteristic length L
Reinf dimensionless Reynolds number at infinity
ReL dimensionless Reynolds number associated with characteristic length L
Rep dimensionless Particle Reynolds number

| 51
 NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

rh m Hydraulic radius
rl m Rod radius
rp m Average pellet radius
Rs J/(kg·K) Specific gas constant
Rt K·m2/W Thermal resistance
Rt, th K/W Absolute thermal resistance
sd m Vapor diffusion equivalent air layer thickness
S N/m2 Second Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor
S V/K Seebeck coefficient
ScT dimensionless Turbulent Schmidt number
Si dimensionless Unit vector of discrete direction in space, i-th component
(angular space discretization)
Sp dimensionless Sparrow number
T K Temperature
T0 K Equilibrium temperature
T’ K Complex amplitude of harmonic perturbation
T+ dimensionless Dimensionless temperature
Tamb K Ambient temperature
Tamb, d K Ambient temperature, downside
Tamb, u K Ambient temperature, upside
Tb K Arterial blood temperature
Td K Temperature, downside
td, c s Damage time, cryogenic analysis
Td, c K Damage temperature, cryogenic analysis
td, h s Damage time, hyperthermia analysis
Td, h K Damage temperature, hyperthermia analysis
Text K External temperature
Text, d K Out-of-plane external temperature, downside
Text, u K Out-of-plane external temperature, upside
Text, z K Out-of-plane external temperature, 1D
Tf K Temperature, fluid phase
tit, c Transformation time, overcooling analysis

52 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

Tit, c Transformation temperature, overcooling analysis

tit, h Transformation time, overheating analysis
Tit, h Transformation temperature, overheating analysis
Tn, c K Temperature of necrosis, cryogenic
Tn, h K Temperature of necrosis, hyperthermia
Tpc K Phase change temperature
Tref K Reference temperature
Tref K Strain reference temperature
Ts K Temperature, solid phase
Tu K Temperature, upside
Tustr K Upstream temperature
Tw K Wall temperature
u m/s Fluid velocity vector
u, v, w m/s Fluid velocity vector’s components
uf m/s Average linear velocity
up m/s Porous velocity field
utrans m/s Translational motion velocity vector
vamb m/s Wind velocity
V V Electric potential
V m3 Total domain volume
W W/m3 Work source
w kg/m3 Moisture storage function
WInt W Work from custom volume forces
Wdiss W Dissipative work from momentum equation
Xa dimensionless Molar fraction of dry air
xpl m Position along the plate (heat transfer coefficient)
xs m Source location (external radiation source)
Xv dimensionless Molar fraction of water vapor
xvap dimensionless Moisture content
xvap,amb dimensionless Ambient moisture content
Y m Parallel-plate gap mean separation thickness

| 53
 GREEK SYMBOLS

NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

(ρCp)eff J/(m3·K) Effective volumetric heat capacity at constant pressure

∂Ω - Geometry domain’s boundaries
∂Ωext - Geometry domain’s exterior boundaries
∂Ωint - Geometry domain’s interior boundaries
∇t - Tangential gradient operator
α 1/K Coefficient of thermal expansion tensor in a solid
α dimensionless Degree of tissue injury (Arrhenius equation)
α dimensionless Irreversible transformation indicator (Arrhenius equation)
α dimensionless Parallel-plate gap gas thermal accommodation parameter
α dimensionless Surface absorptivity
2
α m /s Thermal diffusivity
α dimensionless Damaged tissue indicator
αnecr dimensionless Necrosis time indicator
αm dimensionless Vapor mass fraction
αp 1/K Coefficient of thermal expansion in a fluid
β 1/m Extinction coefficient
βp s/m Moisture transfer coefficient
β dimensionless Parallel-plate gap gas property parameter
βR 1/m Rosseland mean extinction coefficient
γ dimensionless Ratio of specific heats
γTeq Pa/K Psychrometer constant
ΔR m Size of transition zone (deposited beam power)
ΔT K Temperature offset for periodic condition
ΔT0 K Temperature perturbation
δ s Vapor permeability of still air
δp s Vapor permeability
δw m Distance between the computational fluid domain and the
wall
ε dimensionless Surface emissivity
εd dimensionless Surface emissivity, downside
ελ dimensionless Surface spectral emissivity

54 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

εu dimensionless Surface emissivity, upside

εz dimensionless Surface emissivity, 1D out-of-plane radiation
θ rad Angle between the normal to the irradiated surface and the
direction of the source
θd dimensionless Volume fraction of necrotic tissue
θfr dimensionless Volume fraction of solid material in fracture
θg dimensionless Volume fraction of immobile fluid in porous media
θgi dimensionless Volume fraction of immobile fluid i in porous media
θit dimensionless Fraction of transformation
θL dimensionless Volume fraction of mobile fluid in porous media
θp dimensionless Volume fraction of solid material in porous media
θpi dimensionless Volume fraction of solid material i in porous media
θs rad Zenith angle of the Sun
κ 1/m Absorption coefficient (radiation)
2
κ m Permeability (porous media)
λ W/(m·K) Thermal conductivity (turbulent nonisothermal flow)
λ m Wavelength
Λ m Parallel-plate gap gas mean free path
λi m Wavelength band i endpoint
λijkl m Fourth-order dispersivity tensor’s component
λlo m Longitudinal dispersivity
λtr m Transverse dispersivity
λtr, h m Transverse horizontal dispersivity
λtr, v m Transverse vertical dispersivity
μ Pa·s Dynamic viscosity
μ dimensionless Vapor resistance factor
μ0 dimensionless Scattering angle
μa Pa·s Dry air dynamic viscosity
μf Pa·s Dynamic viscosity
μm Pa·s Mixture dynamic viscosity (moist air)
μT Pa·s Turbulent dynamic viscosity
μTh V/K Thomson coefficient

| 55
 NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

μv Pa·s Water vapor dynamic viscosity

ν dimensionless Poisson ratio
νd dimensionless Poisson ratio, down contact surface
νu dimensionless Poisson ratio, up contact surface
ρ kg/m3 Density
ρ dimensionless Surface reflectivity
ρb kg/m3 Density, blood
ρd kg/m3 Density, damaged tissue
ρf kg/m3 Density, fluid phase
ρfr kg/m3 Density of solid material in fracture
ρg kg/m3 Density of immobile fluid in porous media
ρgeo kg/m3 Geothermal density
ρgi kg/m3 Density of immobile fluid i in porous media
ρl kg/m3 Density of thin rod
ρm kg/m3 Mixture density (moist air)
ρp kg/m3 Density of solid material in porous media
ρpi kg/m3 Density of solid material i in porous media
ρs kg/m3 Density of thin layer
ρs kg/m3 Density, solid phase
ρs kg/m3 Density of dry solid
ρsi kg/m3 Density of layer i in thin layer
σ Pa Cauchy stress tensor
σ m Standard deviation (deposited beam power)
σ W/(m2·K4) Stefan-Boltzmann constant
σ N/m Surface tension coefficient
σasp m Asperities average height (surface roughness)
σs 1/m Scattering coefficient
τ dimensionless Optical thickness
τ Pa Viscous stress tensor
φ dimensionless Relative humidity
φamb dimensionless Ambient relative humidity
φ rad Tilt angle (heat transfer coefficient)

56 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
NOTATION SI UNIT DESCRIPTION

φext dimensionless External relative humidity

φd dimensionless Relative humidity, downside
φs dimensionless Surface relative humidity
φu dimensionless Relative humidity, upside
Φd → u kg/s Mass flow rate, positive direction
Φu → d kg/s Mass flow rate, negative direction
ϕ(Ω′, Ω) dimensionless Scattering phase function
ϕs rad Azimuth angle of the Sun
ϕd → u kg/(m2·s) Mass flux, positive direction
ϕu → d kg/(m2·s) Mass flux, negative direction
Ψ J/kg Force potential
Ω dimensionless Unit vector of a direction in space
Ω - Geometry domain
ω dimensionless Specific humidity
ω rad/s Angular frequency
ωb 1/s Blood perfusion rate
ωi W/(m2·K) Discrete incident radiation vector, i-th component
ξ kg/m3 Moisture storage capacity
ξ dimensionless Martensite state volume fraction

| 57
58 | CHAPTER 2: NOTATIONS
 3

Modeling with the Heat Transfer Module

A variety of modeling techniques are discussed in the following sections:

• Heat Transfer Variables

• Moisture Transport Variables
• Using the Boundary Conditions for the Heat Transfer Interfaces
• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer
• Heat Transfer Consistent and Inconsistent Stabilization Methods
• Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Coupling
• Boundary Wall Temperature
• Solver Settings
• Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra Dimensions
• Ambient Thermal Properties
• Modeling Heat Transfer by Radiation
• Specifying the temperature at a flow inlet
• Heat Part Library

59
 Heat Transfer Variables
In this section:

• Predefined Variables
• Global Variables
• Domain Fluxes
• Out-of-Plane Domain Fluxes
• Boundary Fluxes (Heat Transfer interface)
• Internal Boundary Heat Fluxes
• Domain Heat Sources
• Boundary Heat Sources
• Line and Point Heat Sources
• Ambient Variables
• Moist Air Variables

Predefined Variables
This section lists some predefined variables that are available to evaluate heat fluxes,
sources, and integral quantities used in energy balance. All the variable names begin
with the physics interface name (the prefix). By default the Heat Transfer interface
prefix is ht, and the Heat Transfer in Shells interface prefix is htlsh. As an example,
you can access the variable named tflux using ht.tflux (as long as the physics
interface is named ht).
TABLE 3-1: HEAT TRANSFER PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

dEiInt Total Accumulated Heat Rate Global

ntfluxInt Total Net Heat Rate Global
QInt Total Heat Source Global
WnsInt Total Fluid Losses Global
dEi0Int Total Accumulated Energy Rate Global
ntefluxInt Total Net Energy Rate Global
tflux Total Heat Flux (Heat Transfer Domains, boundaries
interface)

60 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-1: HEAT TRANSFER PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

dflux Conductive Heat Flux (Heat Domains, boundaries

Transfer interface)
cflux Convective Heat Flux (Heat Domains, boundaries
Transfer interface)
turbflux Turbulent Heat Flux (Heat Transfer Domains, boundaries
interface)
teflux Total Energy Flux (Heat Transfer Domains, boundaries
interface)
not Radiative Heat Flux (Heat Transfer Domains
applicable interface)
rflux_u Radiative Out-of-Plane Heat Flux Out-of-plane domains (1D
rflux_d (Heat Transfer interface) and 2D), boundaries
rflux_z
q0_u Out-of-Plane Inward Heat Flux Out-of-plane domains (1D
q0_d (Heat Transfer interface) and 2D)
q0_z
h Heat transfer coefficient (see The Exterior boundaries
Heat Transfer Coefficients)
ntflux Normal Total Heat Flux (Heat Boundaries
Transfer interface)
ndflux Normal Conductive Heat Flux Boundaries
(Heat Transfer interface)
ncflux Normal Convective Heat Flux (Heat Boundaries
Transfer interface)
nteflux Normal Total Energy Flux (Heat Boundaries
Transfer interface)
ndflux_u Internal Normal Conductive Heat Interior boundaries
Flux, Upside (Heat Transfer
interface)
ndflux_d Internal Normal Conductive Heat Interior boundaries
Flux, Downside (Heat Transfer
interface)
ncflux_u Internal Normal Convective Heat Interior boundaries
Flux, Upside (Heat Transfer
interface)

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 61

 TABLE 3-1: HEAT TRANSFER PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

ncflux_d Internal Normal Convective Heat Interior boundaries

Flux, Downside (Heat Transfer
interface)
ntflux_u Internal Normal Total Heat Flux, Interior boundaries
Upside (Heat Transfer interface)
ntflux_d Internal Normal Total Heat Flux, Interior boundaries
Downside (Heat Transfer interface)
nteflux_u Internal Normal Total Energy Flux, Interior boundaries
Upside (Heat Transfer interface)
nteflux_d Internal Normal Total Energy Flux, Interior boundaries
Downside (Heat Transfer interface)
q0 Inward Heat Flux (Heat Transfer Boundaries
interface)
rflux Radiative Heat Flux (Heat Transfer Boundaries
interface)
Qtot Domain Heat Sources Domains
Qbtot Boundary Heat Sources Boundaries
Qltot Line heat source (Line and Point Edges, Points (2D, 2D axial
Heat Sources) symmetry)
Qptot Point heat source (Line and Point Points
Heat Sources)
T_amb Ambient temperature Global
p_amb Ambient absolute pressure Global
v_amb Wind velocity Global
phi_amb Ambient relative humidity Global
Is_amb Ambient solar irradiance Global
Ish_amb Clear sky noon diffuse horizontal Global
irradiance
Isn_amb Clear sky noon beam normal Global
irradiance
xvap_amb Ambient moisture content Global
alpha Damage indicator (see Theory for Domains
Bioheat Transfer)
alphanecr Instant tissue necrosis indicator (see Domains
Theory for Bioheat Transfer)

62 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-1: HEAT TRANSFER PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

theta_d Fraction of damage (see Theory for Domains

Bioheat Transfer)
theta_d_sm Fraction of total damage (see Theory Domains
for Bioheat Transfer)
T_dp Dew Point Temperature Domains
T_eq Equivalent Temperature Domains
psat Saturation Pressure Domains
phi Relative Humidity Domains
Lv Latent Heat of Evaporation Domains

Some of these variables are only available with the Heat Transfer Module
(rflux_u, rflux_d, rflux_z, q0_u, q0_d, and q0_z), or when either the
CFD Module or the Heat Transfer Module is added (rflux and
turbflux).

Global Variables
This section describes variables defined by integrals. A concise notation denotes the
different domains of integration: Ω is the geometry domain, ∂Ωext stands for the
exterior boundaries, and ∂Ωint for the interior boundaries.

TOTAL ACCUMULATED HEAT RATE

The total accumulated heat rate variable, dEiInt, is the variation of internal energy per
unit time in the domain:

d
dEiInt =
dt Ω ρEi dω
TOTAL NET HEAT RATE
The total net heat rate, ntfluxInt, is the integral of Total Heat Flux (Heat Transfer
interface) over all external boundaries. In the case of a fluid domain, it reads:

ntfluxInt = ∂Ω ext

( ρuE i – k∇T + q r ) ⋅ n dσ

This indicates the sum of incoming and outgoing total heat flux through the system.

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 63

 TOTAL HEAT SOURCE
The total heat source, QInt, accounts for all domain sources, interior boundary, edge
and point sources, and radiative sources at interior boundaries:

QInt = Ω Q dω + ∂Ω int

Q b dω + ∂ Ω int
Q r dω

TOTAL FLUID LOSSES

The total fluid losses, WnsInt, correspond to the work lost by a fluid by degradation
of energy. These works are transmitted to the system through pressure work and
viscous dissipation:

WnsInt = Ω ( u ⋅ ∇pA ) dω + Ω ( –τ : ∇u ) dω
TOTAL ACCUMULATED ENERGY RATE
The total accumulated energy rate, dEi0Int, is the variation of total internal energy
per unit time in the domain:

d
dEi0Int =
dt Ω ρEi0 dω
where the total internal energy, Ei0, is defined as

u⋅u
E i0 = E i + ------------
2

TOTAL NET ENERGY RATE

The total net energy rate, ntefluxInt, is the integral of Total Energy Flux (Heat
Transfer interface) over all external boundaries. In the case of a fluid domain, it reads:

ntefluxInt = ∂Ω ext

( ρuH 0 – k∇T – τ u + q r ) ⋅ n dσ

This indicates the sum of incoming and outgoing total energy flux through the system.

HEAT BALANCE
According to Equation 4-175, the following equality between COMSOL Multiphysics
variables holds:

dEiInt + ntfluxInt = QInt - WnsInt

64 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

This is the most general form that can be used for time-dependent models. At
steady-state the formula is simplified. The accumulated heat rate equals zero, so the
total net heat rate (the sum of incoming and outgoing heat rates) should correspond
to the heat and work sources:

ntfluxInt = QInt - WnsInt

The sign convention used in COMSOL Multiphysics for QInt is positive when energy
is produced (as for a heater) and negative when energy is consumed (as for a cooler).
For WnsInt, the losses that heat up the system are negative and the gains that cool
down the system are positive.

For stationary models with convection by an incompressible flow, the heat balance
becomes:

ntfluxInt = QInt

which corresponds to the conservation of convective and conductive flux as in:

∂Ω ext
ρuE i ⋅ n dσ – ∂Ω ext
k∇T ⋅ n dσ = Q Int

Depending on the radiation discretization method, the contribution to

the heat balance is handled differently. For the definition of ntfluxInt,
the Optically Thick Participating Medium subnode uses the Rosseland
approximation and defines qr, the radiative flux, as an extra contribution
to the conductive heat flux. The P1 approximation and Discrete ordinates
method, however, include the radiative source ∇ ⋅ qr to Q on the domain,
in the variable QInt.

ENERGY BALANCE
According to Equation 4-176, the following equality between COMSOL Multiphysics
predefined variables holds:

dEi0Int + ntefluxInt = QInt

In stationary models, dEi0Int is zero so the energy balance simplifies into:

ntefluxInt = QInt

At steady state, and without any additional heat source (QInt equal to zero), the
integral of the net energy flux on all boundaries of the flow domain, ntefluxInt,
vanishes. On the other hand, the corresponding integral of the net heat flux does not,
in general, vanish. It corresponds instead to the losses from mass and momentum

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 65

 equations, such as WnsInt for pressure work and viscous dissipation in fluids. Hence,
energy is the conserved quantity, not heat.

Domain Fluxes
On domains the fluxes are vector quantities. The definition can vary depending on the
active physics nodes and selected properties.

TOTAL HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

On domains the total heat flux, tflux, corresponds to the conductive and convective
heat flux. For accuracy reasons the radiative heat flux is not included.

See Radiative Heat Flux (Heat Transfer interface) to evaluate the radiative
heat flux.

For solid domains — for example, the solid and biological tissue domains — the total
heat flux is defined as:

tflux = dflux

For fluid domains (for example, Fluid), the total heat flux is defined as:

tflux = cflux + dflux

CONDUCTIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The conductive heat flux variable, dflux, is evaluated using the temperature gradient
and the effective thermal conductivity:

dflux = – k eff ∇T

In the general case keff is the thermal conductivity, k.

For heat transfer in fluids with turbulent flow, keff = k + kT, where kT is the turbulent
thermal conductivity.

For heat transfer in porous media, keff is the effective conductivity computed from the
solid and fluid conductivities.

For heat transfer in building materials, a latent heat source due to evaporation is
included in the conductive heat flux variable:

dflux = – ( k eff ∇T + L v δ p ∇( φp sat ) )

66 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TURBULENT HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)
The turbulent heat flux variable, turbflux, enables access to the part of the
conductive heat flux that is due to turbulence.

turbflux = – k T ∇T

CONVECTIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The convective heat flux variable, cflux, is defined using the internal energy, Ei:

cflux = ρuE i

The internal energy, Ei, is defined as:

• Ei = H for solid domains

• Ei = H − p/ρ for fluid domains

where H is the enthalpy defined in Equation 4-5.

The convective heat flux may be oriented in the opposite direction of the velocity
field’s direction, when the internal energy, Ei, has a negative value. This happens when
the sensible enthalpy (variation from reference enthalpy Href) is negative. Href is set to
0 J/kg at pref (1 atm) and Tref (293.15 K) in COMSOL Multiphysics. See
Thermodynamic Description of Heat Transfer for details.

TOTAL ENERGY FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The total energy flux, teflux, is defined when viscous dissipation is enabled:

teflux = ρuH 0 + dflux + τu

where the total enthalpy, H0, is defined as

u⋅u
H 0 = H + ------------
2

RADIATIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

In participating media, the radiative heat flux, qr, is not available for analysis on
domains because it is more accurate to evaluate the radiative heat source Q r = ∇ ⋅ q r .

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 67

 Out-of-Plane Domain Fluxes

RADIATIVE OUT-OF-PLANE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The radiative out-of-plane heat flux, rflux, is generated by the Out-of-Plane
Radiation feature.

• In 2D:
4 4
upside: rflux_u = ε u σ ( T amb, u – T )

4 4
downside: rflux_d = ε d σ ( T amb, d – T )

• In 1D:

4 4
rflux_z = ε z σ ( T amb, z – T )

OUT-OF-PLANE INWARD HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The convective out-of-plane heat flux, q0, is generated by the Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
feature.

• In 2D:
upside: q0_u = h u ( T ext, u – T )

downside: q0_d = h d ( T ext, d – T )

• In 1D:

q0_z = h z ( T ext, z – T )

Boundary Fluxes (Heat Transfer interface)

All the domain fluxes (vector quantity) computed by the Heat Transfer interface are
also available as boundary fluxes. The boundary fluxes are then equal to the mean value
of the fluxes on adjacent domains. In addition, normal boundary heat fluxes (scalar
quantity) are available on boundaries.

NORMAL TOTAL HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The variable ntflux is defined as:

68 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 ntflux = ndflux + ncflux

NORMAL CONDUCTIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The variable ndflux is defined on exterior boundaries as:

• ndflux = −dflux_spatial(T) if the adjacent domain is on the downside,

• ndflux = −uflux_spatial(T) if the adjacent domain is on the upside,

and, on interior boundaries, as:

ndflux = (uflux_spatial(T) − dflux_spatial(T))/2

Frames for the Heat Transfer Equations for a description of spatial and
material frames.

NORMAL CONVECTIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The variable ncflux is defined as:

ncflux = mean ( cflux ) ⋅ n

NORMAL TOTAL ENERGY FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

The variable nteflux is defined as:

nteflux = mean ( teflux ) ⋅ n – mean ( dflux ) ⋅ n + ndflux

INWARD HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

On boundaries the inward heat flux, q0, is a scalar quantity defined either in a general
way or as a convective heat flux as follows:

q0 = h ( T ext – T )

where Text is the external temperature defined in the Heat Flux feature.

RADIATIVE HEAT FLUX (HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE)

On boundaries the radiative heat flux, rflux, is a scalar quantity defined as:

4 4 4
rflux = εσ ( T amb – T ) + εσ ( G – T ) + q r, net

where the terms account for surface-to-ambient radiative flux, surface-to-surface

radiative flux, and radiation in participating net radiative flux, respectively.

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 69

 Internal Boundary Heat Fluxes
The internal normal boundary heat fluxes (scalar quantity) are available on interior
boundaries. They are calculated using the upside and the downside value of heat fluxes
from the adjacent domains.

INTERNAL NORMAL CONDUCTIVE HEAT FLUX, UPSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER

INTERFACE)
The variable ndflux_u is defined as:

ndflux_u = uflux_spatial ( T )

INTERNAL NORMAL CONDUCTIVE HEAT FLUX, DOWNSIDE (HEAT

TRANSFER INTERFACE)
The variable ndflux_d is defined as:

ndflux_d = dflux_spatial ( T )

Frames for the Heat Transfer Equations for a description of spatial and
material frames.

INTERNAL NORMAL CONVECTIVE HEAT FLUX, UPSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER

INTERFACE)
The variable ncflux_u is defined as:

ncflux_u = up ( cflux ) ⋅ un

INTERNAL NORMAL CONVECTIVE HEAT FLUX, DOWNSIDE (HEAT

TRANSFER INTERFACE)
The variable ncflux_d is defined as:

ncflux_d = down ( cflux ) ⋅ dn

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL HEAT FLUX, UPSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER

INTERFACE)
The variable ntflux_u is defined as:

ntflux_u = ndflux_u + ncflux_u

70 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL HEAT FLUX, DOWNSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER
INTERFACE)
The variable ntflux_d is defined as:

ntflux_d = ndflux_d + ncflux_d

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL ENERGY FLUX, UPSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER

INTERFACE)
The variable nteflux_u is defined as:

nteflux_u = up ( teflux ) ⋅ un – up ( dflux ) ⋅ un + ndflux_u

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL ENERGY FLUX, DOWNSIDE (HEAT TRANSFER

INTERFACE)
The variable nteflux_d is defined as:

nteflux_d = down ( teflux ) ⋅ dn – down ( dflux ) ⋅ dn + ndflux_d

Domain Heat Sources

The sum of the domain heat sources added by different physics features is available in
the variable Qtot, which is the sum of:

• Q’s, which are the heat sources added by the Heat Source (described for the Heat
Transfer interface) and Electromagnetic Heating (described for the Joule Heating
interface in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual) features.
• Qmet, which is the metabolic heat source added by the Bioheat feature.
• Qdmg, which is the cooling source added by the Irreversible Transformation feature.
• Qr, which is the radiative heat source added by the Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Participating Media, Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media,
and Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media multiphysics features.
• Qgeo, which is the geothermal heat source added by the Geothermal Heating
feature.

In Bioheat, the out-of-plane (heat flux and radiation) and blood

contributions are not added to Qtot because these are considered to be
fluxes.

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 71

 Boundary Heat Sources
The sum of the boundary heat sources added by different boundary conditions is
available in the variable, Qb,tot (SI unit: W/m2). This variable Qbtot is the sum of:

• Qb, which is the boundary heat source added by the Boundary Heat Source
boundary condition.
• Qsh, which is the boundary heat source added by the Electromagnetic Heating
condition (described for the Joule Heating interface in the COMSOL Multiphysics
Reference Manual).
• Qs, which is the boundary heat source added by a Layer Heat Source subfeature of
a thin layer, see Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture).

Line and Point Heat Sources

The sum of the line heat sources is available in a variable called Qltot (SI unit: W/m).

The sum of the point heat sources is available in a variable called Qptot (SI unit: W).

Ambient Variables

AMBIENT TEMPERATURE
See Conditions of temperature in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

AMBIENT ABSOLUTE PRESSURE

See Pressure in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

WIND VELOCITY
See Conditions of wind speed in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

AMBIENT RELATIVE HUMIDITY

See Relative humidity in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

AMBIENT SOLAR IRRADIANCE

The ambient solar irradiance Is_amb is the sum of the Direct and diffuse Solar
irradiances.

CLEAR SKY NOON DIFFUSE HORIZONTAL IRRADIANCE

See Direct and diffuse Solar irradiances in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

72 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

CLEAR SKY NOON BEAM NORMAL IRRADIANCE
See Direct and diffuse Solar irradiances in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

AMBIENT MOISTURE CONTENT

See Moisture content in Ambient Thermal Properties section.

Moist Air Variables

The temperature variable solved by the Heat Transfer interfaces corresponds to the dry
bulb temperature. This is the temperature measured by a thermometer with a dry
sensor and screening to prevent from deviation due to external radiation like solar
radiation.

When the presence of water vapor is accounted for in the model, other temperatures
may be considered, depending on vapor pressure.

DEW POINT TEMPERATURE

The dew point temperature of a sample of air with water vapor pressure pv is the
temperature to which it must be cooled to become fully saturated.

The variable T_dp is defined in Ref. 1 by:

p sat ( T_dp ) = p v = phi ⋅ psat

where phi is the Relative Humidity variable. See Saturation State for the definition of
saturation pressure psat as a function of temperature. See also Saturation Pressure for
the definition of the variable psat.

EQUIVALENT TEMPERATURE
The equivalent temperature is obtained by adiabatically condensing all the water vapor
of a sample of air with initial vapor pressure pv. In this process, the latent heat decrease
due to total removal of the vapor is balanced by a increase of the sensible heat and
temperature.

The variable T_eq is approximated in Ref. 1 by:

phi ⋅ psat
T_eq = T + -----------------------------
γ Teq

where phi is the Relative Humidity, and γTeq (SI unit: Pa/K) is the psychrometer
constant, defined in Ref. 1 by:

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 73

 M a pC p, a
γ Teq = ------------------------
Mv Lv

where p is the total pressure, Cp, a is the heat capacity at constant pressure of dry air at
temperature T, Lv is the latent heat of evaporation at temperature T (see Latent Heat
of Evaporation), and Ma and Mv are the molar mass of dry air and water vapor,
respectively.

See also Saturation Pressure for the definition of the variable psat.

These definitions are illustrated on Figure 3-1.

Figure 3-1: Relation between dry bulb, dew point, equivalent, and wet bulb temperatures.

The wet bulb temperature is also represented on Figure 3-1. It is obtained by

adiabatically reaching saturation state for a sample of air with initial water vapor
pressure pv. In this process, the latent heat increase due to evaporation is balanced by
a decrease of the sensible heat and temperature. It is not available as a predefined
variable, but it can be approximated by solving the following equation:

p sat ( T wb ) phi ⋅ psat

T wb + --------------------------- = T + -----------------------------
γ γ

The psychrometer constant is again evaluated at temperature T.

SATURATION PRESSURE
The variable psat is defined by:

psat = fpsat ( T )

where T is the temperature. See Functions for the definition of the function fpsat.

RELATIVE HUMIDITY
The variable phi is defined by:

74 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 pv
phi = --------------------
p sat ( T )

LATENT HEAT OF EVAPORATION

The variable Lv is defined by:

Lv = lv ( T )

where T is the temperature. See Functions for the definition of the function Lv.

HEAT TRANSFER VARIABLES | 75

 Moisture Transport Variables
Predefined Variables
This section lists the predefined variables that are available with the Moisture Transport
interface. All variable names begin with the physics interface name (the prefix). By
default, the Moisture Transport interface prefix is mt. As an example, you can access
the variable named phi using mt.phi (as long as the physics interface is named mt).
TABLE 3-2: MOISTURE TRANSPORT PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

phi Relative humidity Domains

cv Vapor concentration Domains
cw Total moisture concentration Domains
cl Liquid water concentration Domains
csat Saturation concentration Domains
psat Saturation pressure of water vapor Domains
pv Partial pressure of water vapor Domains
wc_l Liquid water content Domains
wc_v Vapor content Domains
omega_moist Vapor mass fraction Domains
xvap Moisture content Domains
Lv Latent heat of evaporation Domains
Xa Molar fraction of dry air Domains
Xv Molar fraction of water vapor Domains
rhoa Density of dry air Domains
rhov Density of water vapor Domains
rho_moist Density of moist air Domains
mua Viscosity of dry air Domains
muv Viscosity of water vapor Domains
mu_moist Viscosity of moist air Domains
cflux Convective moisture flux Domains
dflux Diffusive moisture flux Domains
tflux Total moisture flux Domains

76 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-2: MOISTURE TRANSPORT PREDEFINED VARIABLES

VARIABLE NAME GEOMETRIC ENTITY LEVEL

tfluxMag Total moisture flux magnitude Domains

Gtot Total moisture source Domains
h_m Moisture transfer coefficient Boundaries
ncflux Normal convective moisture flux Boundaries
ndflux Normal diffusive moisture flux Boundaries
ntflux Normal total moisture flux Boundaries
g_evap Evaporation flux Boundaries
q_evap Latent heat source Boundaries
q_evaptot Total latent heat source on surfaces Boundaries
ncflux_u Normal convective moisture flux, Interior boundaries
upside
ncflux_d Normal convective moisture flux, Interior boundaries
downside
ndflux_u Normal diffusive moisture flux, upside Interior boundaries
ndflux_d Normal diffusive moisture flux, Interior boundaries
downside
ntflux_u Normal total moisture flux, upside Interior boundaries
ntflux_d Normal total moisture flux, downside Interior boundaries
gtot Total moisture flux Boundaries

Moist air properties

PARTIAL AND SATURATION PRESSURES OF WATER VAPOR

The partial pressure of vapor pv is the product of the saturation pressure psat and the
relative humidity phi:

pv = phi ⋅ psat

SATURATION CONCENTRATION OF WATER VAPOR

The saturation concentration csat is obtained from the saturation pressure psat and
temperature T by:

psat
csat = ------------
RT

where R is the universal gas constant.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT VARIABLES | 77

 MOISTURE CONTENT
The moisture content xvap is obtained from the vapor concentration cv, the absolute
pressure pA and temperature T by:

cv Mv
xvap = -------------------------- ⋅ --------
p M
 --------
A  a
 RT – cv

where R is the universal gas constant, Mv is the water vapor molar mass, and Ma is the
dry air molar mass.

VAPOR MASS FRACTION

The vapor mass fraction omega_moist is obtained from the moisture content by:

xvap
omega_moist = ------------------------
1 + xvap

LIQUID, VAPOR, AND MOISTURE CONCENTRATIONS

The total moisture concentration cw is the sum of the liquid water and vapor
concentrations cl and cv:

cw = cv + cl

CONCENTRATIONS AND CONTENTS

The liquid water and vapor contents wc_l and wc_v are obtained by multiplying the
concentrations cl and cv by the molar mass of water Mv:

wc _ l = Mv ⋅ cl

wc _ v = Mv ⋅ cv

LATENT HEAT OF EVAPORATION

The variable Lv is defined by:

Lv = lv ( T )

where T is the temperature. See Functions for the definition of the function Lv.

78 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Domain Moisture Fluxes

CONVECTIVE MOISTURE FLUX

In building materials domains, the variable cflux is defined as:

cflux = – δ p φ∇ ( p sat ( T ) )

In moist air domains, the variable cflux is defined as:

cflux = M v uc v

DIFFUSIVE MOISTURE FLUX

In building materials domains, the variable dflux is defined as:

dflux = – ( ξ D w + δ p sat ( T ) )∇φ

p

In moist air domains, the variable dflux is defined as:

dflux = – M v D∇c v

TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX

The variable tflux is defined as:

tflux = cflux+dflux

TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX MAGNITUDE

The variable tfluxMag is defined as:

tfluxMag = norm ( tflux )

Boundary Moisture Fluxes

NORMAL CONVECTIVE MOISTURE FLUX

The variable ncflux is defined on all boundaries as:

ncflux = mean ( cflux ) ⋅ n

INTERNAL NORMAL CONVECTIVE MOISTURE FLUX, UPSIDE

The variable ncflux_u is defined on interior boundaries as:

MOISTURE TRANSPORT VARIABLES | 79

 ncflux_u = up ( cflux ) ⋅ un

INTERNAL NORMAL CONVECTIVE MOISTURE FLUX, DOWNSIDE

The variable ncflux_d is defined on interior boundaries as:

ncflux_d = down ( cflux ) ⋅ dn

NORMAL DIFFUSIVE MOISTURE FLUX

The variable ndflux is defined on all boundaries as:

ndflux = mean ( dflux ) ⋅ n

INTERNAL NORMAL DIFFUSIVE MOISTURE FLUX, UPSIDE

The variable ndflux_u is defined on interior boundaries as:

ndflux_u = up ( dflux ) ⋅ un

INTERNAL NORMAL DIFFUSIVE MOISTURE FLUX, DOWNSIDE

The variable ndflux_d is defined on interior boundaries as:

ndflux_d = down ( dflux ) ⋅ dn

NORMAL TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX

The variable ntflux is defined on all boundaries as:

ntflux = mean ( tflux ) ⋅ n

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX, UPSIDE

The variable ntflux_u is defined on interior boundaries as:

ntflux_u = up ( tflux ) ⋅ un

INTERNAL NORMAL TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX, DOWNSIDE

The variable ntflux_d is defined on interior boundaries as:

ntflux_d = down ( tflux ) ⋅ dn

TOTAL MOISTURE FLUX

The sum of the boundary moisture fluxes added by Moisture Flux features is available
as the variable gtot.

80 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Domain Moisture Source
The sum of the domain moisture sources added by Moisture Source features is
available as the variable Gtot.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT VARIABLES | 81

 Using the Boundary Conditions for
the Heat Transfer Interfaces
In this section:

• Temperature and Heat Flux Boundary Conditions

• Overriding Mechanism for Heat Transfer Boundary Conditions

Temperature and Heat Flux Boundary Conditions

The heat equation accepts two basic types of boundary conditions: specified
temperature and specified heat flux. The specified condition is of constraint type and
prescribes the temperature on a boundary:

T = T0 on ∂Ω

while the latter specifies the inward heat flux

–n ⋅ q = q0 on ∂Ω

where

• q is the conductive heat flux vector (SI unit: W/m2), q = −k∇T.

• n is the normal vector on the boundary.
• q0 is the inward heat flux (SI unit: W/m2), normal to the boundary.

The inward heat flux, q0, is often a sum of contributions from different heat transfer
processes (for example, radiation and convection). The special case q0 = 0 is called
thermal insulation.

A common type of heat flux boundary conditions is one for which q0 = h·(Text − T),
where Text is the temperature far away from the modeled domain and the heat transfer
coefficient, h, represents all the physics occurring between the boundary and “far
away.” It can include almost anything, but the most common situation is that h

82 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

represents the effect of an exterior fluid cooling or heating the surface of a solid, a
phenomenon often referred to as convective cooling or heating.

The CFD Module and the Heat Transfer Module contain a set of
correlations for convective heat flux and heating. See Heat Transfer and
Fluid Flow Coupling.

Overriding Mechanism for Heat Transfer Boundary Conditions

Many boundary conditions are available in heat transfer. Some of these can coexist (for
example, Heat Flux and Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface)); others cannot (for example, Heat Flux and Thermal Insulation).

Several categories of boundary condition exist in heat transfer. Table 3-3 gives the
overriding rules for these groups.

1 Temperature, Open Boundary, Open Boundary, Inflow

2 Thermal Insulation, Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface), Periodic Condition (Heat
Transfer interface)
3 Heat Flux
4 Boundary Heat Source, Radiation Group (Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface),
Line Heat Source on Axis
5 Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells interface),
Thermal Contact, Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface), and Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat
Transfer in Shells interface)
6 Isothermal Domain Interface

TABLE 3-3: OVERRIDING RULES FOR HEAT TRANSFER BOUNDARY CONDITIONS

A\B 1 2 3 4 5 6

1-Temperature X X X
2-Thermal Insulation X X
3-Heat Flux X X
4-Boundary heat source
5-Thin Layer X X
6-Isothermal Domain Interface X

USING THE BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 83

 When there is a boundary condition A above a boundary condition B in the model
tree and both conditions apply to the same boundary, use Table 3-3 to determine if A
is overridden by B or not:

• Locate the line that corresponds to the A group (see above the definition of the
groups). In the table above only the first member of the group is displayed.
• Locate the column that corresponds to the group of B.
• If the corresponding cell is empty, A and B contribute. If it contains an X, B
overrides A.

Group 3 and group 4 boundary conditions are always contributing. That

means that they never override any other boundary condition. But they
might be overridden.

Example
Consider a boundary where Heat Flux is applied. Then a Symmetry boundary condition
is applied on the same boundary afterward.

• Heat Flux belongs to group 3.

• Symmetry belongs to group 2.
• The cell on the line of group 3 and the column of group 2 contains an X so Heat
Flux is overridden by Symmetry.
This mechanism can be checked on the COMSOL Desktop, in the Override and
Contribution section of each feature, as shown in the following table:

Table 3-4: Override and Contribution sections

HEAT FLUX SYMMETRY

84 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

In the example above, if Symmetry followed by Heat Flux is added, the
boundary conditions contribute.

USING THE BOUNDARY CONDITIONS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 85

 Handling Frames in Heat Transfer
In this section:

• Heat Transfer Analysis with Moving Frames

• Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame

Heat Transfer Analysis with Moving Frames

This section discusses heat transfer analysis with moving frames, when spatial and
material frames do not coincide. In this case, the heat transfer interfaces account for
deformation effects on heat transfer properties.

• Material and Spatial Frames

• About Frames in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual

In the heat transfer interfaces, the entire physics (equations and variables) are defined
in the spatial frame. When a moving mesh is detected, the user inputs for certain
features are defined in the material frame and are converted so that all the
corresponding variables contain the value in the spatial frame.

Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames

This subsection contains the list of all heat transfer nodes and the corresponding
definition frame:

• Physics Feature Nodes and Definition Frame

• Definition Frame of Domain Nodes
• Definition Frame of Boundary Nodes
• Definition Frame of Edge and Point Nodes

PHYSICS FEATURE NODES AND DEFINITION FRAME

The following explains the different values listed in the definition frame column in
Table 3-5, Table 3-6, and Table 3-7:

86 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Material: The inputs are entered by the user and defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame.

Spatial: The inputs are entered by the user and defined in the spatial frame. No
conversion is done.

Material/(Spatial): For these physics nodes, select from the Material type list to decide
if the inputs are defined in the material or spatial frame. The default definition frame
is the material frame, which corresponds to Solid in the Material type list.

(Material)/Spatial: For these physics nodes, select from the Material type list to decide
if the inputs are defined in the material or spatial frame. The default definition frame
is the spatial frame, which corresponds to Nonsolid in the Material type list.

N/A: There is no definition frame for this physics node.

HANDLING FRAMES IN HEAT TRANSFER | 87

 DEFINITION FRAME OF DOMAIN NODES

TABLE 3-5: DOMAIN PHYSICS NODES FOR FRAMES

NODE NAME DEFINITION FRAME

Absorbing Medium Spatial

Absorbing-Scattering Medium Spatial
Bioheat Material
Biological Tissue Material
Building Material Material
Cross Section Spatial
Thickness Spatial
Fluid Spatial
Geothermal Heating Material
Heat Source Material/(Spatial)
Immobile Fluids Spatial
Infinite Elements Spatial
Initial Values Spatial
Irreversible Transformation Spatial
Isothermal Domain Spatial
Moist Air Spatial
Opacity N/A
Optically Thick Participating Spatial
Medium
Out-of-Plane Heat Flux Spatial
Out-of-Plane Radiation Spatial
Participating Medium Spatial
Phase Change Material Spatial
Porous Medium Material (Solid part)
Spatial (Fluid part)
Pressure Work Spatial
Shape Memory Alloy Material
Solid Material
Thermal Dispersion Spatial
Thermoelastic Damping Spatial

88 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-5: DOMAIN PHYSICS NODES FOR FRAMES

NODE NAME DEFINITION FRAME

Translational Motion Material

Viscous Dissipation Spatial

HANDLING FRAMES IN HEAT TRANSFER | 89

 DEFINITION FRAME OF BOUNDARY NODES

TABLE 3-6: BOUNDARY PHYSICS NODES FOR FRAMES

NODE NAME DEFINITION FRAME

Boundary Heat Source Material/(Spatial)

Continuity Spatial
Continuity on Interior Boundary Spatial
Deposited Beam Power Spatial
Diffuse Mirror Spatial
Diffuse Surface Spatial
External Temperature Spatial
Fracture Material (Solid part)
Spatial (Fluid part)
Heat Flux (Material)/Spatial
Heat Source Material/(Spatial)
Incident Intensity Spatial
Inflow Spatial
Irreversible Transformation Material
Isothermal Domain Interface Spatial
Opaque Surface Spatial
Open Boundary Spatial
Outflow N/A
Periodic Condition Spatial
Prescribed Radiosity Spatial
Radiation Group N/A
Semi-Transparent Surface Spatial
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation Spatial
Symmetry N/A
Temperature Spatial
Thermal Contact Material
Thermal Damage Material
Thermal Insulation N/A
Thin Film Spatial
Thin Layer Material

90 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The definition frames of the corresponding pair features are identical to the ones of the
standard features.

DEFINITION FRAME OF EDGE AND POINT NODES

TABLE 3-7: EDGE AND POINT NODES FOR FRAMES

NODE NAME DEFINITION FRAME

Heat Flux Spatial/(Material)

Heat Source Material/(Spatial)
Line Heat Source Material/(Spatial)
Point Heat Source Material/(Spatial)
Shell Continuity Spatial
Surface-to-Ambient Radiation Spatial
Temperature Spatial
Thin Rod Material

Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame

In a model the features defined in the material frame with an input field for the density
expect the density in the material frame, defined for the reference geometry. Hence this
density is constant in most cases. A non constant density in the material frame means
that there is addition or removal of matter.

As a consequence, when the material is defined from a material library and is

temperature dependent, a constant reference temperature, the volume reference
temperature, is used for the definition of the density in the Material Contents table.

The volume reference temperature defines the density in the reference geometry that
should match with the geometry in the material frame. It is a model input of all the
features defined in the material frame with an input field for the density. Following
Table 3-5, Table 3-6, and Table 3-7, this concerns the following features: Solid,
Porous Medium, Biological Tissue, Building Material, Shape Memory Alloy, Thin
Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells interface), Fracture
(Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer in Shells interface), and
Thin Rod.

HANDLING FRAMES IN HEAT TRANSFER | 91

 Heat Transfer Consistent and
Inconsistent Stabilization Methods
The different versions of the Heat Transfer interface include the advanced option to
set stabilization method parameters. This section has information about these options.
To display the stabilization sections, click the Show button ( ) and select
Stabilization.

In this section:

• Consistent Stabilization
• Inconsistent Stabilization

Consistent Stabilization
This section contains two consistent stabilization methods: streamline diffusion and
crosswind diffusion. These are consistent stabilization methods, which means that they
do not perturb the original transport equation.

The consistent stabilization methods are active by default. A stabilization method is

active when the corresponding check box is selected.

Continuous Casting: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Processing/continuous_casting

STREAMLINE DIFFUSION
Streamline diffusion is active by default and should remain active for optimal
performance for heat transfer in fluids or other applications that include a convective
or translational term.

CROSSWIND DIFFUSION
Streamline diffusion introduces artificial diffusion in the streamline direction. This is
often enough to obtain a smooth numerical solution provided that the exact solution
of the heat equation does not contain any discontinuities. At sharp gradients, however,
undershoots and overshoots can occur in the numerical solution. Crosswind diffusion
addresses these spurious oscillations by adding diffusion orthogonal to the streamline
direction — that is, in the crosswind direction.

92 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Inconsistent Stabilization
This section contains a single stabilization method: isotropic diffusion. Adding
isotropic diffusion is equivalent to adding a term to the physical diffusion coefficient.
This means that the original problem is not solved, which is why isotropic diffusion is
an inconsistent stabilization method. Although the added diffusion definitely
attenuates spurious oscillations, try to minimize the use of isotropic diffusion.

By default there is no isotropic diffusion. To add isotropic diffusion, select the Isotropic
diffusion check box. The field for the tuning parameter δid then becomes available. The
default value is 0.25; increase or decrease the value of δid to increase or decrease the
amount of isotropic diffusion.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual:

• Stabilization Techniques
• Stabilization

HEAT TRANSFER CONSISTENT AND INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION METHODS | 93

 Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow
Coupling
COMSOL Multiphysics offers physics interfaces for heat transfer and fluid flow
computations. These interfaces have model inputs that make it possible to couple the
physics. In addition, COMSOL Multiphysics and the Heat Transfer Module contain
multiphysics coupling interfaces that facilitate the coupling between heat transfer and
fluid flow interfaces: Temperature Coupling, Flow Coupling, and Nonisothermal Flow can
be used to couple fluid flow and heat transfer interfaces.

All these options make it possible to build a coupling in different ways. Even if the use
of the predefined multiphysics coupling interfaces — Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate
Heat Transfer — is the preferred choice, other alternatives can be of interest in
particular cases. This section describes the possibility for coupling heat transfer and
fluid flow interface and lists the advantages and limitations of each approach.

In this section:

• Coupling Based on Model Inputs

• Temperature Coupling and Flow Coupling Multiphysics Features
• Adding Nonisothermal Flow Coupling in an Existing Model
• Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Multiphysics Interfaces
See The Laminar Flow Interface, The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus Interface, The
Turbulent Flow, L-VEL Interface, The Turbulent Flow, k-ε Interface, and The
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε Interface in the CFD Module User’s Guide for a
description of the laminar and turbulent single-phase flow interfaces.

See Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide for a description of the nodes associated to these interfaces.

Coupling Based on Model Inputs

This option does not use any multiphysics feature. Instead you define the model inputs
in each physics interface. You define the temperature model input in the flow interface
and the velocity and pressure model inputs in the heat transfer interface. This approach
is valid for laminar flow only. Also, the consistent stabilization does not account for the
multiphysics coupling, which can lead to convergence issues when the multiphysics

94 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

coupling is strong. Pressure work and viscous dissipation are not handled. In addition
the physics interface settings may not be optimal for the numerical treatment of the
coupling.

One interesting aspect of this method it that the temperature, velocity, or pressure field
does not have to be a dependent variable. You can use an analytical expression instead.

Temperature Coupling and Flow Coupling Multiphysics Features

These multiphysics features implement a one-way coupling (one in each direction)
between the heat transfer and the fluid flow coupling. These couplings are interesting
when you want to explicitly show that the coupling is not bidirectional: it is possible
to use only the Flow Coupling when the fluid properties are not temperature dependent.

This approach is valid for laminar flow only. Also, the consistent stabilization does not
account for the multiphysics coupling, which, similarly to the previous approach, can
lead to convergence issues when the multiphysics coupling is strong, in particular when
the temperature dependence of the fluid properties is large. Pressure work and viscous
dissipation are not handled. In addition, the physics interface settings may not be
optimal for the numerical treatment of the coupling.

Adding Nonisothermal Flow Coupling in an Existing Model

The Heat Transfer Module provides the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics feature. This
feature can be added to a model containing a single-phase flow and a heat transfer
interface. It is common to start a model with a single physics (for example, fluid flow),
then implement the second one (for example, heat transfer). Then adding the
Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics feature realizes the coupling between the two
interfaces.

This multiphysics interface handles the two-way coupling. In addition, it accounts for
the turbulence in the coupling. In particular, it modifies the effective thermal
conductivity and implements thermal wall functions if the fluid flow model requires
them. Those modifications affect the implementation of several heat transfer features.
This multiphysics feature also redefines the consistent stabilization so that the
multiphysics coupling effects are accounted for in the numerical stabilization. It allows
to include work done by pressure changes and viscous dissipation, and Boussinesq
approximation is supported. Finally some physics features are updated when the
Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics feature is active. In particular, the Interior Fan and
Screen fluid-flow features are updated to account for the multiphysics coupling.

HEAT TRANSFER AND FLUID FLOW COUPLING | 95

 Note that the physics interface settings may not be optimal for the numerical treatment
of the coupling when the multiphysics feature is added afterward.

Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Multiphysics

Interfaces
These Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Multiphysics
Interfacesmultiphysics interfaces are identical except that they do not have the same
default features. Both contain a single-phase flow interface and a heat transfer interface
coupled with the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics feature. So all the benefits of this
multiphysics feature (see above) are present when these multiphysics interfaces are
used.

In addition, the heat transfer and fluid flow interfaces are set up with optimal interface
settings: the discretization order of the heat transfer interface is the same as the one
used for the fluid flow interface, and the pseudo time stepping is activated in both
interfaces.

For these reasons, the use of these multiphysics interfaces is preferred.

Note that you can do a gradual implementation of the model: It is possible to start
from these multiphysics interfaces and to disable the multiphysics feature or one of the
physics in a first step and then reactivate them when the first step is validated.

96 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Boundary Wall Temperature
Depending on the model configuration, a single temperature field per boundary may
not be sufficient to model accurately the temperature. In some cases, different
dependent variables are used to compute the temperature in the wall, at the wall sides,
or in the turbulent boundary layer. This section describes when additional degrees of
freedom are needed and how they are handled.

The boundary temperature variable called ht.Tvar describes the wall temperature.
When the wall has a nonconstant temperature across its thickness, this variable contains
the average value between the temperatures of the two sides of the wall. The actual
definition of ht.Tvar depends on the model configuration.

Some features define a local temperature: ht.feat1.Tvar. For example, when a

boundary heat source is applied on a particular side of the layer, this local variable
ht.bhs1.Tvar contains either the temperature upside or downside the boundary.

The following list includes existing boundary temperature variables that are available
depending on the model configuration:

• T: general temperature variable that coincides with the wall temperature in most
cases
• TWall_u: upside wall temperature defined by a Wall or an Interior Wall feature with
turbulence only if a Fluid feature is defined on the upside of the wall.
• TWall_d: downside wall temperature defined by a Wall or an Interior Wall feature
with turbulence only if a Fluid feature is defined on the downside of the wall.
• Tu: temperature on the upside of the boundary.
• Td: temperature on the downside of the boundary.
• TExtFace: external temperature of an external boundary defined by a thermally
thick boundary condition.
• TuWF: temperature of the fluid in the turbulent boundary layer near the wall only if
the Fluid feature is defined on the upside of the Wall feature.
• TdWF: temperature of the fluid in the turbulent boundary layer near the wall only if
the Fluid feature is defined on the downside of the Wall feature.

BOUNDARY WALL TEMPERATURE | 97

 The values of these variables depend on the selections where they are defined. Here are
some illustrated cases:

• Intersection between a Wall boundary feature selection and interface exterior

boundaries
• Interface between a fluid domain feature and a solid domain feature where a Wall
boundary feature is active
• Interface between two fluid domain features where an Interior Wall boundary
feature is active

Depending on the turbulence model selected for the flow, wall functions are used or
not:

• No turbulence model: no wall functions, and TuWF = Tu, TdWF = Td.

• Turbulence models: wall functions detected by the Single Phase Flow physics
interface. TuWF and TdWF have different definitions and a flux qwf is applied on the
wall boundaries. See Temperature Condition for Automatic Wall Treatment and
Wall functions in the CFD Module User’s Manual for details.
The following sections summarize the definitions of the temperature variables for the
abovementioned configurations.

INTERSECTION BETWEEN A WALL BOUNDARY FEATURE SELECTION AND

INTERFACE EXTERIOR BOUNDARIES
The following figure shows a configuration with a fluid domain, a thermally thick
boundary condition on the left boundary, and a Wall feature on the right boundary.
This example uses wall functions.

Fluid

Tu=TExtFace Td=TWall_d Tu=Td=TWall_d

TdWF=T TdWF=T
Thermally thick layer boundary

98 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

INTERFACE BETWEEN A FLUID DOMAIN FEATURE AND A SOLID DOMAIN
FEATURE WHERE A WALL BOUNDARY FEATURE IS ACTIVE

Solid in the domain downside the wall

The following figures show configurations with a solid as downside domain and a fluid
as upside domain with either a thermally thick or thermally thin boundary condition
in between. This example uses wall functions.

Solid Fluid

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Td=down(T) Tu=TWall_u Tu=Td=TWall_d

TuWF=up(T) TdWF=T
Thermally thick layer boundary

Solid Fluid

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Tu=Td=down(T) Tu=Td=TWall_d

Thermally thin layer boundary

BOUNDARY WALL TEMPERATURE | 99

 Solid in the domain upside the wall
The following figures show configurations with a fluid as downside domain and a solid
as upside domain with either a thermally thick or thermally thin boundary condition
in between. This example uses wall functions.

Fluid Solid

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Tu=Td=Twall_d
Td=TWall_d Tu=up(T)
TdWF=down(T)
Thermally thick layer boundary

Fluid Solid

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Tu=Td=Twall_d Tu=Td=up(T)

Thermally thin layer boundary

100 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

INTERFACE BETWEEN TWO FLUID DOMAIN FEATURES WHERE AN
INTERIOR WALL BOUNDARY FEATURE IS ACTIVE
The following figure shows a configuration with two fluid domains with a thermally
thick boundary condition and an Interior Wall feature in between. This example uses
wall functions.
Fluid Fluid

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Tu=Td=TWall_d Tu=Td=TWall_d

Td=TWall_d Tu=TWall_u
TdWF=down(T) TuWF=up(T)

Thermally thick layer and Interior

Wall boundary

BOUNDARY WALL TEMPERATURE | 101

 Solver Settings
The information about default solvers given below is specific to the Heat Transfer and
Moisture Transport interfaces when the Stationary and Time-Dependent studies are
used. A comprehensive description of solver settings and corresponding theory is
available in the Study and Study Step Types section of the COMSOL Multiphysics
Reference Manual.

See also Studies and Solvers in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual

In this section:

• Linearity property of the temperature equation

• Linear Solver
• Nonlinear Solver
• Time-Dependent Study Step
• Guidelines for Solving Surface-to-Surface Radiation Problems
• Guidelines for Solving Multiphysics problems

Linearity property of the temperature equation

The Heat Transfer interfaces define an elliptic partial differential equation for the
temperature, T, of the form:

∂T
ρC p +∇⋅q = Q
∂t

q = – k ∇T

with Dirichlet and Neumann boundary conditions at some boundaries:

T = T0

–n ⋅ q = q0

In its basic form, the density, ρ, heat capacity, Cp, thermal conductivity, k, heat sources,
Q, constraint temperatures, T0, and heat fluxes, q0, are all constant, which leads to a

102 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

linear system. Here, linear solvers described in the next paragraphs are completely
suited for the resolution.

However, nonlinearities can appear in the equation in the following cases:

• The material properties, ρ, Cp, and k, have a temperature dependency.

• The heat sources are not linear in temperature.
• The Neumann boundary condition is not linear in temperature, hence
- A convective cooling condition of type −n ⋅ q = h(Text − T) keeps the linearity of
the problem when the heat transfer coefficient, h, is constant.
- A radiative condition of type −n ⋅ q = εσ(Tamb4 − T4) is strongly nonlinear.

Different nonlinear solvers are also provided for these kinds of problems.

Linear Solver

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES

The default linear solver is determined based on the number of degrees of freedom and
physics interface settings.

For small number of degrees of freedom, the direct PARDISO solver is used. It is
known to be robust and fast for small-sized problems.

For larger models, the linear iterative GMRES solver with multigrid preconditioner is
used. In most cases, SOR is the presmoother and postsmoother. This solver is memory
effective and fast for large models. When the heat transfer model contains settings that
lead to a system matrix with 0 on the diagonal (for example, Lagrange multipliers for
weak constraints), SOR cannot be used and is replaced by Vanka, which is usually
slower and uses more memory.

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACE

The linear iterative GMRES solver with geometric multigrid (GMG) acceleration is
used by default. In most cases, SOR is used as the presmoother and postsmoother for
better performance. When weak constraints are set, the use of Lagrange multipliers
leads to a system matrix with 0 on the diagonal, and SOR cannot be used. It is replaced
by Vanka, which is usually slower and uses more memory.

TUNING LINEAR SOLVER

Tuning the linear solver may be considered in case of nonconvergence or low
performance. When convergence fails you should first verify that this is not due to an

SOLVER SETTINGS | 103

 ill-posed model, or inappropriate settings in the Time-Dependent study or nonlinear
solver.

Several options are available to tune the linear solver settings. This paragraph focuses
only on the most commonly used ones.

Switch to PARDISO
When the GMRES solver with multigrid preconditioner is set by default, using
PARDISO instead can be considered provided that enough RAM is available. Indeed,
PARDISO usually converges easily but uses much more memory than the default
iterative solver. If PARDISO does not converge, it may indicate that there is an issue
in the model definition or with other solver settings.

Optimize GMRES/Multigrid for Memory

In order to optimize further the memory needed by the iterative solver, the number of
mesh elements on the coarser multigrid level can be reduced by, for instance,
increasing the Mesh coarsening factor or the Number of multigrid levels. The latter
strategy may also increase the resolution time.

Optimize GMRES/Multigrid for Convergence

When the linear solver has difficulties to converge, the following settings can be tuned:

• When the convergence graph of GMRES shows a slow down every 50 iterations, the
Number of iteration before restart parameter (default value of 50) should be
increased — doubled for example. This may also increase the memory consumption.
• Increasing the Number of iteration in the Multigrid settings, and in the presmoother
and postsmoother nodes improves the quality of the preconditioner and
convergence of GMRES.
• Since an excessive difference between two multigrid levels can affect the
convergence, lowering the Mesh coarsening factor in the Multigrid settings can help
convergence.
• Consider creating the multigrid level meshes manually if the automatic coarsening
method fails or leads to poor quality meshes.

Choosing the Right Linear System Solver in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual

104 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Nonlinear Solver

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES

Nonlinear solver settings depend on the heat transfer model and on the study type.

Fully Coupled Solver Attribute

Heat transfer models use a fully coupled nonlinear solver attribute by default. The
Jacobian update is set to minimal. A Newton nonlinear method is set by default with

• Automatic damping factor computation for stationary studies

• Constant damping factor for time-dependent studies

Segregated Solver Attribute

The segregated solver attribute is set by default in the following cases:

• Another physics interface is solved together with heat transfer. The dependent
variables of the heat transfer interface are placed in a separate segregated group.
• Radiation in participating media using the Discrete ordinates method defines a large
number of dependent variables (up to 80), which are placed in segregated groups.
The number of dependent variables per segregated group and the nonlinear method
settings depend on the Performance index parameter available in the heat transfer
interface settings in the Participating Media Settings section.
• The Thermal Damage subfeature (added under Biological Tissue feature) defines an
additional variable alpha that is placed in a dedicated segregated group.

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACES

A Newton nonlinear method is set by default with a constant damping factor (0.5).
The Jacobian update is set to On every iteration. The termination technique is Iterations,
with Number of iterations set to 2.

TUNING THE NONLINEAR SOLVER

Default solver settings are defined to handle efficiently classical configurations. For
particular applications, the default settings may need modifications to improve the
robustness and performance of the solver.

SOLVER SETTINGS | 105

 Optimize Nonlinear Solver for Robustness
When the nonlinear solver fails or converges erratically, different options can be
considered:

• Using the Automatic highly nonlinear (Newton) option forces to start the
computation with a very low damping factor and increases it carefully. Alternatively
a low constant damping factor can be used. The damping factor ranges between 0
and 1. A constant damping factor equal to 0.1 is a very low value and should be
robust but slow to converge. For low values of the damping factor, it is thus usually
needed to increase the number of nonlinear iterations. If the nonlinear solver is
unstable with such a damping factor then the automatic option should be used
because it makes it possible to start with a lower damping factor and gradually
increases it.
• A good initial value, as close as possible from the expected solution and consistent
with the boundary conditions, helps to guide the nonlinear solver to a stable
physical solution. To do that:
- Try to ramp the temperature on the boundary from the initial to the desired value
by using a auxiliary sweep — for stationary problems — or a time-dependent step
function — for time-dependent problems.
- Use results from a simplified problem, for instance with no temperature
dependency, or using a one-way multiphysics coupling, as initial value.
Note that it is sometimes easier to update the boundary conditions than the initial
condition to get consistent initial settings (see the Heat Conduction in a Finite
Slab model).
• When it is not possible to provide a good initial value, the segregated solver
associated with low damping factors in each segregated step helps to achieve
convergence.
• Forcing the Jacobian update at every iteration ensures that the nonlinear solver
iterates using optimal information from the equation system. This is needed when
nonlinearities are due to the temperature itself — for example, in case of strong
temperature dependency of material properties — or to another variable solved in
the same segregated group as the temperature — for example, in natural convection
models.

106 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Optimize Convergence Speed
Low convergence can be improved by following ways:

• Using a constant damping factor equal to 1 for linear problems. The linearity is
determined at the beginning of the resolution and indicated in the Log section of the
solver window.
• Providing a good initial value is an asset for computational speed.
• In the convergence area, the fully coupled solver has a better convergence rate than
the segregated solver.
• Using minimal Jacobian update option avoid to spend time in Jacobian
computation. This is suited for linear models and models with mild nonlinearities.

Time-Dependent Study Step

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES

The default time-stepping method for the Heat Transfer interfaces is BDF at second
order. It excludes algebraic variable from the error estimate.

When a Thermal Damage subfeature is present under Biological Tissue feature, particular
settings for the time-dependent solver are used to efficiently compute the damage
indicators:

• The Absolute Tolerance of the scaled damage indicator variable is set to 1, meaning
that these variable are neglected in the error estimate.
• The damaged tissue indicator, α, is solved with an iterative Jacobi method.
• If the Adaptive mesh refinement option is selected in the study settings, the error
indicator is set to ∇θ d, sm ⋅ ∇θ d, sm , where θd, sm is the smoothed indicator of
necrotic tissue (the fraction of necrotic tissue, θd, is discontinuous in general).
• If the Temperature threshold option is used in the Biological Tissue feature, the instant
necrosis indicator, alphanecr, is placed in the Previous Solution step. This setting
avoids wrong detection of irreversible damage due to nonlinear iterations that may
go through a state where the damage criteria is met and then converge to a solution
where the damage criteria is no longer met. It uses a direct linear solver. The default
nonlinear method is the Newton method with constant damping factor.

When the Irreversible Transformation feature is active, similar settings are used:

• The Absolute Tolerance of the scaled irreversible transformation indicator dependent

variable is set to 1.

SOLVER SETTINGS | 107

 • The irreversible transformation indicator α is solved with an iterative Jacobi method.

DEFAULT SETTINGS FOR MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACES

The default time-stepping method for the Moisture Transport interfaces is BDF at
second order.

TUNING THE TIME-DEPENDENT SOLVER

The quality of the time-stepping influences the nonlinear solver convergence. Tiny
time steps usually lead to mildly nonlinear problems at each time step whereas large
time steps can result in (fewer) highly nonlinear problems.

The default solver settings for transient heat transfer defines the maximal number of
nonlinear iterations to 5. If this is not sufficient, it is recommended to use smaller time
steps and to verify if the model definition does not contain discontinuities in time. If
so, consider using smooth step functions to model sharp variations in time.

There are several ways to control the time step size:

• An implicit way is to define a lower relative tolerance in the study settings. When the
relative tolerance is lowered, the absolute tolerance should be reduced in the same
proportion.
• The most explicit way is to define a maximum time step. This is an appropriate
option when the same maximum time step is relevant for the entire simulation.
Otherwise, it is possible to include times of interest in the Times field of the
time-dependent study and to use the Intermediate option in the Time Stepping
settings.
• Lastly you can control the time step by triggering an event when a particular
condition is meet (see the documentation about The Events Interface in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual). This advanced method can be
efficient when the other simpler methods are not applicable.

It is also recommended to inspect the solver log and check the default scaling of
dependent variables in case of convergence failure. In case of incorrect automatic
scaling, consider using Manual settings in the Dependent Variable attribute node.

Time-Dependent Solver in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual

108 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Guidelines for Solving Surface-to-Surface Radiation Problems
The following guidelines are helpful when selecting solver settings for models that
involve surface-to-surface radiation:

• Surface-to-surface radiation makes the Jacobian matrix of the discrete model partly
filled as opposed to the usual sparse matrix. The additional nonzero elements in the
matrix appear in the rows and columns corresponding to the radiosity degrees of
freedom. It is therefore common practice to keep the element order of the radiosity
variable, J, low. By default, linear Lagrange elements are used irrespective of the
shape-function order specified for the temperature. When you need to increase the
resolution of your temperature field, it might be worth considering raising the order
of the temperature elements instead of refining the mesh.
• The Assembly block size parameter (found in the Advanced solver feature) can have a
major influence on memory usage during the assembly of problems where
surface-to-surface radiation is enabled. When surface-to-surface is detected, the
solver sets the assembly block size at 100. Using a smaller block size also leads to
more frequent updates of the progress bar.

Introduction to Solvers and Studies and Advanced in the COMSOL

Multiphysics Reference Manual

Guidelines for Solving Multiphysics problems

MULTIPHYSICS MODELS
Unless the model contains a multiphysics node that defines a coupling between a Heat
Transfer interface and another interface (see Multiphysics Couplings below), each
physics interface defines default solver settings that are merged.

The Heat Transfer interfaces always define a dedicated segregated group that uses a
linear solver optimized for the heat transfer equations. For strongly coupled models, it
may be efficient to merge two (or more) segregated steps. In this case, a unique linear
solver must be chosen for the fully coupled solver or the new segregated group.

Time-dependent settings from different physics interfaces may compete. When the
different settings are merged the strictest one is kept.

SOLVER SETTINGS | 109

 MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS
When a Heat Transfer interface is coupled with another physics interface through a
multiphysics coupling feature, additional predefined default settings are loaded. The
next two paragraphs describes the subtleties of the Nonisothermal Flow,
Electromagnetic Heating, and Heat and Moisture Transport interfaces.

Nonisothermal Flow
The Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling controls the solver settings for the
flow and the temperature dependent variables.

When it assumes a weak coupling between the flow and the heat interfaces (typically
no Volume Force feature in the flow interface), the default solver contains dedicated
segregated groups for heat and flow dependent variables. Each uses the default linear
solver of the corresponding interface, except that the presmoother and postsmoother
in the GMRES iterative solver switches from SOR to SCGS.

When a strong coupling is assumed (at least one Volume Force feature in the flow
interface), the default solver merges the temperature, pressure, and velocity. In this
case, the linear solver corresponds to the default linear solver of the flow interface. The
Jacobian is updated once per time step.

Electromagnetic Heating
The Electromagnetic Heating multiphysics interfaces (Joule heating, Laser Heating,
Induction Heating, and Microwave Heating) define default settings that solve the
temperature and the electromagnetic fields using a coupled step. It can be the fully
coupled nonlinear solver if there is no additional variable to solve for, otherwise it is a
segregated step containing the temperature and the electromagnetic variables.
However when radiation in participating media or damage variable are solved they are
placed in a separate group as described above.

Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation

The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation multiphysics coupling forces a
strong coupling between temperature and radiosity variables solved by a Heat Transfer
interface and a Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface, respectively. The default solver
suggestion ensures that the temperature and the radiosity dependent variables are
solved together, either by a fully coupled nonlinear solver, or by placing them in a same
segregated group when other segregated groups are generated by some other physics
interfaces.

110 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium
The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling forces a strong coupling
between both the solid and the fluid temperature variables involved in the porous
medium model. The default solver suggestion ensures these two temperature
dependent variables are solved together, either by a fully coupled nonlinear solver, or
by placing them in a same segregated group when other segregated groups are
generated by some other physics interfaces.

Heat and Moisture Transport

The Heat and Moisture Transport interface defines dedicated segregated groups for
heat and moisture dependent variables. Each uses the default linear solver of the
corresponding interface. A Lower Limit node is added for the relative humidity to
enforce a positive value.

SOLVER SETTINGS | 111

 Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra
Dimensions
When modeling thin layers with extra dimensions — if the Layer type is set to General
in the Thin Layer, Thin Film, and Fracture features of the Heat Transfer interface, or
when using the Heat Transfer in Shells interface — the layer is not explicitly
represented in the geometry. Therefore, dedicated tools are available to plot the results
in the layer. There are two ways of plotting variables in the 1D extra dimension:

• Along the layer, for a fixed coordinate between 0 and ds (the layer thickness) in the
1D extra dimension.
• Through the thin layer, at one position on the boundary

See Layered Material, Layered Material Slice, and Through Thickness in

the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details about the
Layered Material dataset, and slice and through-thickness plots in layered
materials.

Using Extra Dimensions in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

Along the Layer

The extra dimension temperature T can be evaluated along the layer by using the
atxd1 operator on the extra dimension, with the expression xdimTag.atxd1(xd,
expr), where:

• xdimTag is the extra dimension tag. For example, it is ht_tl1_xdim5_xdim, in the

case of a thin layer (tl1) with five layers (xdim5) in a physics interface with tag ht.
This tag can be deduced from the Selection column of the Equation View subnode of
the node applied on the thin layer, by clicking the Show button ( ) on the Model
Builder tool bar and selecting Equation View.
• xd is the coordinate in the extra dimension. It varies from 0 to ds, which is the sum
of layer thicknesses. By convention, xd=0 corresponds to the downside of the
boundary where the thin layer is defined, whereas xd=ds corresponds to its upside.
Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global normal vector

112 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside. See Tangent and Normal
Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual. Note that the normal
vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented differently. The layer thickness
variables (ht.tl1.ds1 for example) can be retrieved from the Equation View
subnode of the node applied on the thin layer.
• expr is the quantity to be evaluated at the point xd. For example, it can be set to T
to evaluate the temperature. There are others postprocessing variables defined on
the extra dimension that can be found in the Equation View subnode of the node
applied on the thin layer.

In 2D and 2D axisymmetric geometries, the section is represented in a line graph

under a 1D plot group, whereas it is a surface plot for 3D geometries.

Extra
dimension

Computational
domain Along
the layer
xd

Thin Layer boundary

Figure 3-2: Schematic representation of a 2D geometry with a thin layer composed of three
layers, with an evaluation of the results along the layer at the coordinate xd.

Through the Thin Layer

The extra dimension temperature T can be evaluated through the thin layer, at a
specific point (x0, y0) or (x0, y0,z0), by using the operators atxd1 in 2D and 2D
axisymmetric geometries, and atxd2 in 3D geometries. Note that this time the
operators are used on the component and not on the extra dimension.

For all dimensions, the section is represented in a line graph under a 1D plot group.
In order to use this, the Data set selected in the Data section of the 1D plot group has
to select the extra dimension as component. One method is to duplicate the default
Solution node under the Data Sets node, set the Component of the new node to the extra
dimension, and use this new data set into the 1D plot group, with the domains of the
extra dimension selected.

PLOTTING RESULTS IN THIN LAYERS EXTRA DIMENSIONS | 113

 In 2D and 2D axisymmetric geometries, use compTag.atxd1(x0, y0, expr), where:

• compTag is the component tag. In most cases, this tag is comp1. It is possible to
check it in the Properties window of the component node (display it by
right-clicking on the node and selecting Properties).
• x0 and y0 are the coordinates of the point in the base geometry that belongs to the
boundary linked with the extra dimension. Note that these are 2D coordinates from
the global coordinate system and not curvilinear coordinates.
• expr is the quantity to be evaluated at the point (x0, y0). For example, it can be set
to T to evaluate the temperature.

In 3D geometries, use compTag.atxd2(x0, y0, z0, expr), where:

• compTag is the component tag. For example, it can be comp1.

• x0, y0, and z0 are the coordinates of the point in the base geometry that belongs
to the boundary linked with the extra dimension.
• expr is the quantity to be evaluated at the point (x0, y0, z0). For example, it can
be set to T to plot the temperature. Note that here too, these are 3D coordinates
from the global coordinate system and not curvilinear coordinates.
Extra
dimension
Computational
domain

( x0, y0)

Thin Layer boundary

Along the extra dimension

Figure 3-3: Schematic representation of a 2D geometry with a thin layer composed of three
layers, with an evaluation of the results through the layer at the point (x0,y0).

114 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Ambient Thermal Properties
The ambient data available under the Definitions branch come from the processing of
measured data from ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0 (©2013 ASHRAE,
www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.) and ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 6.0
(©2017 ASHRAE, www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.), given as frequencies of
observations, monthly and hourly averaged for several past years of observation. They
provide time-dependent weather conditions for more than 8000 stations worldwide in
terms of the dry bulb temperature, the dew point temperature, the relative humidity,
the wind speed, and the solar direct and diffuse irradiance.

In this section:

• Settings for the Ambient Thermal Properties

• Processing of ASHRAE Data
• Ambient Data Interpolation
• Ambient Variables and Conditions
• Use of Ambient Data From the Features

When no special mention is added, the term temperature stands for the
dry bulb temperature. See Moist Air Variables for the definition of the dry
bulb temperature, dew point temperature, and relative humidity.

Settings for the Ambient Thermal Properties

To add an Ambient Thermal Properties node to any Component, on the Physics toolbar
click Ambient Thermal Properties or right-click the Definitions node under the
Component and choose Ambient Thermal Properties.

In the Ambient Thermal Properties node ( ), you can define ambient variables to be
available as inputs from several features: the temperature Tamb, the absolute pressure

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 115

 pamb, the relative humidity φamb, the wind velocity vamb, and the direct and diffuse
solar irradiances Isn,amb and Ish,amb.

See Heat Flux, Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface),

Temperature, Initial Values, or External Radiation Source for examples of
features of the Heat Transfer interface that have ambient variables
available as inputs.

See Initial Values, Moisture Content, or Moisture Flux for examples of

features of the Moisture Transport interface that have ambient variables
available as inputs.

Three options are available for the definition of the Ambient data:

• When User defined (the default) is selected, the Ambient temperature Tamb, the
Ambient absolute pressure pamb, the Ambient relative humidity φamb, the Wind
velocity vamb, the Clear sky noon beam normal irradiance Isn,amb, and the Clear sky
noon diffuse horizontal irradiance Ish,amb should be specified directly.
• When either Meteorological data (ASHRAE 2013) or Meteorological data (ASHRAE 2017)
is selected, the ambient variables are computed from monthly and hourly averaged
measurements, made over several years at weather stations worldwide. See
Processing of ASHRAE Data for more information. Further settings for the choice
of the location, time, and ambient conditions are needed; and additional input fields
are displayed underneath.

Location
In this section you can set the location by choosing among more than 8000 weather
stations worldwide. Two options are available for the selection of the Weather station:

• When From list is selected, click on the Set Weather Station... button to open the
Weather Station browser that allows you to select a Region, a Country, and a Station.

116 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 The station details (World Meteorological Organization reference, location, and
geographical coordinates) are displayed underneath.
• It is also possible to select a station From reference by entering the corresponding
World Meteorological Organization reference, which is a 6-digit number.

A single country may be available for more than one region selection if it
has stations spread over different regions. For example, United States of
America is available in the Country list when either North America,
Eurasia, or Oceania is selected in the Region list.

When a station is selected From list, its World Meteorological

Organization (WMO) reference is displayed in the user interface. The
WMO references can also be retrieved from maps offered by third parties
like the one available as of this product release on
http://ashrae-meteo.info/.

Time
The Date and Local time should be set by entering values or expressions in the Day,
Month, Hour, Minute, and Second fields of the two tables.

If On is selected in the Specify year list, a value or expression for the Year should also be
set. As the data are given as averages over several past years, this input is only used for
the detection of leap years, in order to interpolate the data over the months.

For temporal studies, these inputs define the starting time of the simulation. By
default, the Update time from solver check box is selected, and the time is then
automatically updated with the time from the solver to evaluate the variables by
interpolation of the measured data. Clear this check box to manually set the time
update.

See Ambient Data Interpolation for more information about the

interpolation of data over months and hours.

See Processing of ASHRAE Data for more information about the data.

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 117

 A time unit suitable for simulations over a day or a year may be set in the
Study Settings section of the Time Dependent node, by using for example
h for hour, d for day, or a for a year. See Using Units in the COMSOL
Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

Ambient conditions
Based on the measured data, several conditions are available for the Temperature, the
Dew point temperature, and the Wind speed. The formula for each condition is recalled
in Table 3-8, Table 3-9, and Table 3-10. The Average conditions correspond to
weighted means of the measured data, whereas the other conditions are obtained by
applying standard or modified deviations (Low, High, and User defined coefficient for
deviation conditions), user defined corrections, or wind correlations to the average
conditions; or by taking the minimum or maximum of the measured data (Lowest and
Highest conditions). More information about these definitions can be found in
Ambient Variables and Conditions.
TABLE 3-8: TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS

CONDITION DEFINITION

Average T amb =  T station

Low T amb =  T station – σ T, station
High T amb =  T station + σ T, station
Lowest T amb = min ( T station )
Highest T amb = max ( T station )
User defined coefficient for deviation T amb =  T station + c σ ⋅ σ T, station
User defined correction T amb =  T station + ΔT
Heating wind correlation(1) T amb =  T station + ΔT wind
(1)
Cooling wind correlation T amb =  T station – ΔT wind
(1)
These correlations are not related to the wind speed conditions described in
Table 3-10.

TABLE 3-9: DEW POINT TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS

CONDITION DEFINITION

Average DPT amb =  DPT station

Low DPT amb =  DPT station – σ DPT, station
High DPT amb =  DPT station + σ DPT, station
Lowest DPT amb = min ( DPT station )
Highest DPT amb = max ( DPT station )

118 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-10: WIND SPEED CONDITIONS

CONDITION DEFINITION

Average v amb =  v station

Low v amb =  v station – σ v, station
High v amb =  v station + σ v, station
Lowest v amb = min ( v station )
Highest v amb = max ( v station )

The conditions set for Temperature and Dew point temperature should be
consistent in order to keep the temperature larger than the dew point
temperature. However, all settings combinations are available, and the
relative humidity is majored by 1 when necessary.

The sum of the Clear sky noon beam normal irradiance and the Clear sky
noon diffuse horizontal irradiance is available through the postprocessing
variable ht.Is_amb, defined as the Ambient solar irradiance.

Processing of ASHRAE Data

From frequencies of measured values, a weighted mean of the data and a standard
deviation from the weighted mean are computed for each month. For the temperature,
more data are available and the weighted mean and standard deviation are also
computed at each hour. Figure 3-4 shows an example of weighted mean computation
for the diurnal temperature fluctuations from the initial data given as frequencies of
observations.

Figure 3-4: Computation of weighted mean from frequencies of observations for the
diurnal fluctuations of temperature.

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 119

 These values are used for the definition of different conditions, as detailed in Ambient
Variables and Conditions.

All the monthly averaged observations except the solar irradiance are supposed to be
made at the middle of each month. This time depends on the number of days in the
month:

• Months with 31 days (January, March, May, July, August, October, December):
data at the 16th at noon
• Months with 30 days (April, June, September, November): data at the 16th at
midnight
• Months with 29 days (February, leap years): data at the 15th at noon
• Months with 28 days (February, other years): data at the 15th at midnight

In addition, the temperature observations are supposed to be made at the beginning

of each hour (00:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.).

Finally, the solar irradiance observations are made at the 21st of each month at noon.
Depending on the number of days in the month, this date corresponds to 68% (for
months with 31 days), 70% (for months with 30 days), or 75% (for February) of the
month. The leap years are not considered and the 21st of February always corresponds
to 75% of this month.

Ambient Data Interpolation

The temperature is the only variable for which hourly data are available in addition to
monthly averages. So for the temperature a double interpolation is performed to get a
temperature profile for every time in a year depending on the date and the hour. For
other data the interpolation is based on date only. This interpolation provides:

• The annual fluctuation of the dew point temperature, the relative humidity, the
wind speed, and the direct and diffuse solar irradiances.
• The annual and diurnal fluctuation of the temperature.
In all cases, the interpolation is of second order, with continuous first-order derivative.

Ambient Variables and Conditions

The observed values are processed by computing weighted means, standard deviations,
maximum, and minimum, to define different conditions for the temperature, dew
point temperature, and wind speed.

120 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

CONDITIONS OF TEMPERATURE
• Average:
T amb =  T station

• Low:
T amb =  T station – σ T, station

• High:
T amb =  T station + σ T, station

• Lowest:
T amb = min ( T station )

• Highest:

T amb = max ( T station )

• User defined coefficient for deviation:

T amb =  T station + c σ ⋅ σ T, station

• User defined correction:

T amb =  T station + ΔT

where:

• <Tstation> (SI unit: K) is the weighted mean of the observed values of temperature
at the station.
• σT,station (SI unit: K) is the standard deviation of the observed values of
temperature at the station.
• Tstation (SI unit: K) is the set of the observed values of temperature at the station.
• cσ (dimensionless) is a user-defined multiplicative coefficient applied to σT,station.
• ΔT (SI unit: K) is a user-defined additive correction applied to <Tstation>.

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 121

 All these conditions are illustrated on Figure 3-5 for the variation of temperature over
1 day at New York/John F. Ke, on the 1st of June.

Figure 3-5: Comparison of ambient conditions for the temperature at New York/John F.
Ke, on the 1st of June, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0 (©2013 ASHRAE,
www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.)

Additional conditions are defined from observed couples of temperature and wind
speed and direction values:

• Heating wind correlation:

T amb =  T station + ΔT wind

• Cooling wind correlation:

T amb =  T station – ΔT wind

where ΔTwind (SI unit: K) is an additive correction applied to <Tstation>, defined as

1
ΔT wind = --- max ( ΔT ws, station, ΔT wd, station )
2

where ΔTws,station (SI unit: K) and ΔTwd,station (SI unit: K) are respectively the
maximal variations of observed values of temperature correlated with a set of wind
speed and direction observed values.

122 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The heating and cooling wind correlations are illustrated on Figure 3-6 for the
variation of temperature over 1 day, at New York/John F. Ke, on the 1st of June.

Figure 3-6: Comparison of heating and cooling wind correlations for the temperature at
New York/John F. Ke, on the 1st of June, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0
(©2013 ASHRAE, www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.)

CONDITIONS OF DEW POINT TEMPERATURE

• Average:
DPT amb =  DPT station

• Low:
DPT amb =  DPT station – σ DPT, station

• High:
DPT amb =  DPT station + σ DPT, station

• Lowest:
DPT amb = min ( DPT station )

• Highest:

DPT amb = max ( DPT station )

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 123

 where:

• <DPTstation> (SI unit: K) is the weighted mean of the observed values of dew point
temperature at the station.
• σDPT,station (SI unit: K) is the standard deviation of the observed values of dew
point temperature at the station.
• DPTstation (SI unit: K) is the set of the observed values of dew point temperature
at the station.

All these conditions are illustrated on Figure 3-7 for the variation of the dew point
temperature over 1 year at New York/John F. Ke.

Figure 3-7: Comparison of the ambient conditions for the dew point temperature at New
York/John F. Ke, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0 (©2013 ASHRAE,
www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.)

CONDITIONS OF WIND SPEED

• Average:
v amb =  v station

• Low:
v amb =  v station – σ v, station

• High:
v amb =  v station + σ v, station

124 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• Lowest:
v amb = min ( v station )

• Highest:

v amb = max ( v station )

where:

• <vstation> (SI unit: m/s) is the weighted mean of the observed values of wind
velocity at the station.
• σv,station (SI unit: m/s) is the standard deviation of the observed values of wind
velocity at the station.
• vstation (SI unit: m/s) is the set of the observed values of wind velocity at the
station.

All these conditions are illustrated on Figure 3-8 for the variation of the wind speed
over 1 year at New York/John F. Ke.

Figure 3-8: Comparison of the ambient conditions for the wind speed at New York/John
F. Ke, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0 (©2013 ASHRAE, www.ashrae.org.
Used with permission.)

PRESSURE
p amb = p station

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 125

 where pstation (SI unit: Pa) is the observed value of absolute pressure at the station.
Only a single value is available, so this data does not vary with time.

RELATIVE HUMIDITY
The relative humidity φ amb (dimensionless) is computed from the temperature Tamb
and the dew point temperature DPTamb with the following relation:

p sat ( DPT amb )

φ amb = ---------------------------------------
p sat ( T amb )

where psat(Tamb) is the saturation pressure of vapor at Tamb.

See Relative Humidity for more details.

As the diurnal variation of temperature is available, the diurnal fluctuations of relative

humidity can be computed, as illustrated on Figure 3-9 for New York/John F. Ke, on
the 1st of June, for different ambient conditions.

Figure 3-9: Diurnal fluctuations of relative humidity for different ambient conditions at
New York/John F. Ke, on the 1st of June, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0
(©2013 ASHRAE, www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.)

Several conditions of relative humidity can be obtained from the selection of

conditions for the temperature and dew point temperature. For consistency, the
relative humidity is majored by 1, as shown on the red curve of Figure 3-9.

126 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

MOISTURE CONTENT
The moisture content xvap,amb (dimensionless) is computed from the temperature
Tamb, the absolute pressure pamb, and the relative humidity φ amb with the following
relation:

φ amb ⋅ p sat ( T amb ) Mv

x vap, amb = -------------------------------------------------------------------- ⋅ --------
p amb – φ amb ⋅ p sat ( T amb ) M a

where psat(Tamb) is the saturation pressure of vapor at Tamb, and Mv and Ma are the
molar masses of water vapor and dry air.

See Moisture Content for more details.

DIRECT AND DIFFUSE SOLAR IRRADIANCES

With clear sky conditions, the noon solar irradiance is essentially provided by the beam
normal irradiance, coming directly from the sun. However, the diffuse horizontal
irradiance may be also considered. The sum of direct and diffuse solar irradiances is the
ambient solar irradiance Is, amb (SI unit: W/m3), defined by:

I s, amb = I sn, station + I sh, station

where Isn,station (SI unit: W/m3) and Ish,station (SI unit: W/m3) are respectively the
observed values of the clear sky noon beam normal and horizontal diffuse solar
irradiances.

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 127

 Figure 3-10 illustrates the evolution of ambient solar irradiance for New York/John F.
Ke, over the year.

Figure 3-10: Decomposition of solar irradiance into normal and horizontal irradiance at
New York/John F. Ke, with ASHRAE Weather Data Viewer 5.0 (©2013 ASHRAE,
www.ashrae.org. Used with permission.)

Use of Ambient Data From the Features

The ambient variables defined in the Ambient Thermal Properties node are available as
inputs for several boundary and initial conditions. For example, when defining the heat
transfer coefficient for a Heat Flux boundary condition by using a correlation for

128 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

external forced convection, the wind velocity vamb, the ambient absolute pressure
pamb, and the ambient temperature Tamb can be selected as inputs:

Figure 3-11: Use of ambient data from Heat Flux feature

For an example of the use of user-defined ambient data, see:

Temperature Field in a Cooling Flange: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Processing/cooling_flange

For an example of the use of meteorological ambient data, see:

Condensation Detection in an Electronic Device with Transport and

Diffusion: Application Library path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/condensati
on_electronic_device_transport_diffusion

Condensation Detection in an Electronic Device: Application Library

path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/condensati
on_electronic_device

AMBIENT THERMAL PROPERTIES | 129

 Modeling Heat Transfer by Radiation
This section summarizes the functionalities available within the Heat Transfer Module
for the modeling of heat transfer by radiation.

Radiation is a heat transfer mode that should be considered in addition to conduction

and convection in the following cases:

• In a transparent or semi-transparent medium.

• For a surface with a large emissivity (close to 1). Whereas most polished metals have
an emissivity below 0.1, other materials such as concrete, black painting, glass,
plastic, skin, paper, and ceramic have an emissivity over 0.8 for infrared radiation.
• When the temperature difference between a surface and the surrounding surfaces or
the ambient is large.
• When conduction and convection are small, as radiation becomes the predominant
transfer mode.
• At small time scales, for which conduction and convection effects are too slow and
have a less significant effect.

As an example, consider a plate of concrete with a cold bottom wall at temperature T0,
placed in a hot environment with an air flux at temperature Tamb:

130 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The figures below illustrate the relative importance of heat transfer by radiation and by
convection (due to the air flux), when the emissivity ε is 0.1 (left) and 0.9 (right).

Figure 3-12: Integral of convective and radiative heat fluxes (W/m) along the top
boundary, for two values of emissivity, as a function of the temperature difference.

Whereas the boundary radiative and convective heat fluxes are of the same order for
temperature difference up to 500K when the emissivity is low (ε=0.1), radiation
becomes the dominant mode of heat transfer even for a small temperature difference
when the emissivity is high (ε=0.9). Note that the convective heat flux decrease
observed for high temperature gradients is related to the fact that the velocity, not the
mass flow rate, is prescribed at the air inlet.

See Heat Transfer Variables for the definition of the variables q0 and
rflux giving access to the convective and radiative heat fluxes on
boundaries.

Two configurations are considered regarding the functionalities available for the
modeling of radiative heat transfer:

• Radiation in transparent media

• Radiation in participating media

MODELING HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION | 131

 Interfaces and Features for Radiation in Transparent Media
The following table recalls the functionalities available for the modeling of radiative
heat transfer in transparent media.
TABLE 3-11: MODELING OF HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION IN TRANSPARENT MEDIA

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT SURFACE-TO-SURFACE

Description

Physical and modeling assumptions

Refractive index of n=1 Any, uniform
domain
Diffuse reflection Yes Yes
Specular reflection No With Ray shooting
Refraction No With Ray shooting
Shadowing effects in No With Hemicube or Ray shooting
view factor
computation
Wavelength No Yes (Solar and ambient / Multiple
dependency of spectral bands)
emissivity No (Constant)
Dimension of the 3D, 2D axi, 2D, 1D axi, 3D, 2D axi, 2D, 1D axi, 1D
domain 1D
Example in Application Continuous Casting Chip Cooling
Library
License, interfaces and features
License requirement COMSOL Multiphysics / Heat Transfer Module
Heat Transfer Module
Interfaces Heat Transfer (ht) Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Heat Transfer in Shells (rad)
(htlsh)
Domain features Out-of-Plane Radiation Opacity
(1)(2)

132 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-11: MODELING OF HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION IN TRANSPARENT MEDIA

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT SURFACE-TO-SURFACE

Boundary features Surface-to-Ambient Diffuse Mirror

Radiation Diffuse Surface
Opaque Surface
Semi-Transparent Surface
Initial Values
Prescribed Radiosity
Radiation Group
Edges/Point features Surface-to-Ambient N/A
Radiation(1)
Global features N/A External Radiation Source (3)
Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface
Radiation (4)
Multiphysics features N/A Heat Transfer with
Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Numerical aspects
Numerical cost Low Medium to high
Radiation variables None Surface radiosity J (if constant
wavelength), J1,J2 (if solar and
ambient wavelengths),
J1,...,Jn (if multiple wavelengths)
(1)
Only with the Heat Transfer Module
(2)
Only in 2D and 1D components
(3) Only in 3D and 2D components
(4)
Only in 3D, 2D axi, and 2D components
(5)
Only with Rosseland approximation and P1 method

MODELING HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION | 133

 Interfaces and Features for Radiation in Participating Media
The following table recalls the functionalities available for the modeling of radiative
heat transfer in participating media.
TABLE 3-12: MODELING OF HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION

ABSORBING MEDIA ABSORBING-SCATTERING PARTICIPATING MEDIA

MEDIA

Description

Physical and modeling assumptions

Refractive Any, uniform Any, uniform Any, uniform
index of
domain
Scattering in N/A Isotropic (P1 method, Isotropic (Rosseland
domain DOM) approximation,P1
Linear anisotropic (P1 method, DOM)
method, DOM) Linear anisotropic (P1
Anisotropic (DOM) method, DOM)
Henyey-Greenstein Anisotropic (DOM)
(DOM) Henyey-Greenstein
(DOM)
Wavelength No No No
dependency
of emissivity
Dimension of 3D, 2D axi(5), 3D, 2D axi(5), 2D 3D, 2D axi(5), 2D
the domain 2D
Example N/A N/A Glass Plate
model
License, interfaces and features
License Heat Transfer Heat Transfer Module Heat Transfer Module
requirement Module
Interfaces Radiative Beam Radiation in Radiation in
in Absorbing Absorbing-Scattering Participating Media
Media (rbam) Media (rasm) (rpm)
Heat Transfer (ht):
Rosseland
approximation

134 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

TABLE 3-12: MODELING OF HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION

ABSORBING MEDIA ABSORBING-SCATTERING PARTICIPATING MEDIA

MEDIA

Domain Absorbing Absorbing-Scattering Participating Medium

features Medium, Initial Medium (rpm interface)
Values Optically Thick
Participating Medium
(ht interface)
Boundary Opaque Surface Opaque Surface Opaque Surface
features Incident Incident Intensity Incident Intensity
Intensity Continuity of Interior Continuity of Interior
Transparent Boundary (DOM) Boundary (DOM)
Surface Periodic Condition Periodic Condition
Symmetry (P1 Symmetry (P1
method) method)
Multiphysics Heat Transfer Heat Transfer with Heat Transfer with
features with Radiative Radiation in Radiation in
Beam in Absorbing-Scattering Participating Media
Absorbing Media (htrasm) (htrpm)
Media (htrbam)
Numerical aspects
Numerical Medium Medium (P1 method) Low (Rosseland
cost High (DOM) approximation)
Medium (P1 method)
High (DOM)
Radiation Incident Incident radiation G None (Rosseland
variables intensities Ii (P1 method) approximation)
Radiative intensity Incident radiation G
I=I1,..., In, with n up (P1 method)
to 168(DOM) Radiative intensity
I=I1,..., In, with n up
to 168(DOM)
(1)
Only with the Heat Transfer Module
(2) Only in 2D and 1D components
(3)
Only in 3D and 2D components
(4)
Only in 3D, 2D axi, and 2D components
(5) Only with Rosseland approximation and P1 method

MODELING HEAT TRANSFER BY RADIATION | 135

 S pe c i f y i ng the t emp erat u re at a fl ow
inlet
When modeling a nonisothermal flow, a Temperature condition can be used at a flow
inlet where the temperature of the fluid is a known quantity. However, there are some
other situations where this is not the case, and an Inflow boundary condition can
improve the model accuracy and reduce the computational cost of the simulation.

In this section:

• Using the Temperature condition

• Using the Inflow condition
• Temperature contribution to the Inflow boundary condition
• Pressure contribution to the Inflow boundary condition
• Choosing between the Temperature and the Inflow conditions

Using the Temperature condition

The Temperature condition is available at exterior and interior boundaries of any type
of domain and is equivalent to set the temperature to a known value on the selected
boundary.

Using the Inflow condition

The Inflow condition is available at boundaries that are exterior to a fluid domain and
is equivalent to having a virtual channel “upstream”. It is used to define a heat flux at
the inlet boundary that brings the same energy to the fluid domain as if you had
modeled the virtual channel as a real CFD domain. The virtual channel can be seen as

136 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

a long insulated channel with given thermal properties at the inlet, and with the same
velocity profile as defined in the settings for the Inflow boundary condition.

Figure 3-13: Representation of the virtual domain corresponding to an Inflow boundary

condition.

This is of particular interest when the geometry contains inlets that are fed by channels
that are not represented in the geometry.

From a mathematical point of view, the boundary condition is formulated as a flux

condition:

– n ⋅ q = ρΔHu ⋅ n

where the enthalpy variation ΔH depends on temperature and pressure difference:

T p
1
ΔH = Tustr C p dT + pustr --ρ- ( 1 – αp T ) dp = ΔHT + ΔHp (3-1)

where:

T
ΔH T = Tustr Cp dT (3-2)

and

p
1
ΔH p = pustr --ρ- ( 1 – αp T ) dp (3-3)

SPECIFYING THE TEMPERATURE AT A FLOW INLET | 137

 Equation 3-1 expresses the fact that the normal conductive heat flux at the inflow
boundary is proportional to the flow rate and enthalpy variation between the upstream
conditions and inlet conditions.

Temperature contribution to the Inflow boundary condition

As shown in Equation 3-1, the enthalpy variation depends in general both on the
difference in temperature and in pressure. However, the pressure contribution to the
enthalpy, ΔHp, can be neglected when the work due to pressure changes is not
included in the energy equation. This is controlled in the Nonisothermal Flow
multiphysics coupling using the Include work done by pressure changes check box.

There is another classical case where this term cancels out: when the fluid is modeled
as an ideal gas. Indeed, in this case,

1
α p = ----
T

When the pressure contribution to the enthalpy is neglected, the boundary condition
reads:

 T 
k∇T ⋅ n = ρ 
 Tustr Cp dT u ⋅ n (3-4)

When advective heat transfer dominates at the inlet (large flow rates), the temperature
gradient, and hence the heat transfer by conduction, in the normal direction to the
inlet boundary is very small. So in this case, Equation 3-4 imposes that the enthalpy
variation is close to zero. As Cp is positive, the Inflow boundary condition requires
T=Tustr to be fulfilled. So, when advective heat transfer dominates at the inlet, the
Inflow boundary condition is almost equivalent to a Dirichlet boundary condition that
prescribes the upstream temperature at the inlet.

Conversely, when the flow rate is low or in the presence of large heat sources or sinks
next to the inlet, the conductive heat flux cannot be neglected. In addition, the inlet
temperature has to be adjusted to balance the energy brought by the flow at the inlet
and the energy transferred by conduction from the interior, as described by
Equation 3-4. This makes it possible to observe a realistic upstream feedback due to
thermal conduction from the inlet surroundings.

138 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Pressure contribution to the Inflow boundary condition
In the general case, the enthalpy variation depends both on the difference in
temperature and in pressure.

Considering that the Inflow boundary condition models a virtual channel feeding the
inlet, pressure losses are expected between the virtual channel inlet and the boundary
where the condition is defined. This explains why the upstream pressure is different
from the inlet pressure. While the fluid flows through the channel, it is subject to
pressure work that results in a temperature change between the virtual channel inlet
and the boundary where the Inflow boundary condition is defined. This is what is
described by the pressure-dependent term in Equation 3-1. Note that the viscous
dissipation in the virtual channel is not accounted for.

Choosing between the Temperature and the Inflow conditions

While in many configurations, the Temperature and Inflow features describe similar
conditions and lead to similar simulation results, there are a number of configurations
(especially for slow flow and small dimensions) where the conductive effects are not
dominated by the advective effects and where the Inflow boundary condition usually
leads to a temperature profile that is closer to the reality than a Temperature boundary
condition. In these cases, a Temperature boundary condition may enforce an erroneous
temperature value that induces large heat fluxes that are not realistic.

SPECIFYING THE TEMPERATURE AT A FLOW INLET | 139

 Heat Part Library
The Part Libraries can be used to store and access a set of standard geometric entities.
It is possible to create custom user-defined geometry libraries or to use built-in
collections of geometric entities that are available with many add-on modules for
COMSOL Multiphysics.

Part Libraries in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual

In this section:

• Heat Part Library Contents

• Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types Part
• Heat Sink - Dissimilar Border Pins Part
• Heat Sink - Pin Fins Part
• Heat Sink - Straight Fins Part

Heat Part Library Contents

The part library included with the Heat Transfer Module contains typical heat sink
geometries. When accessing the library, the parts are sorted as in the figure below:

The heat sinks are composed of a rectangular base and an array of pin or straight fins,
as shown on Figure 3-14.

140 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 fins

border offset

base

Figure 3-14: Heat sinks components

All entities are fully parameterized, making them easy to use as parts in industrial
models where heat sinks are used for cooling. For example, you can control the
number, the shape, the dimensions, and the placement of the fins on the base. In
addition, fillet, chamfer, and notch transformations can be applied to the fins, and
parameter checks are applied to ensure that the values set in the Input Parameters
section are valid. Finally, the fins can be defined as solids or as boundaries for
computational efficiency.

HEAT PART LIBRARY | 141

 The library includes four parts. The Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types part is the most
general part. It supports multiple parameterization, while a reduced number of
parameters is available in the three other parts, as shown in Table 3-13.
TABLE 3-13: OVERVIEW OF HEAT SINK PARTS

Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types

fin_type =1,2,3 (editable)

Heat Sink - Pin Fins Heat Sink - Dissimilar Heat Sink - Straight Fins
Border Pins

fin_type = 1 (not editable) fin_type = 2 (not editable) fin_type = 3 (not editable)

In the Heat Sink - Pin Fins part, all the fins are pins with the same dimension, whereas
the outer and inner fins (in y-direction) can have distinct dimensions in the Heat Sink
- Dissimilar Border Pins part. You may use the Heat Sink - Straight Fins part to define a
heat sink made of only straight fins.

By default, the base of the heat sink is positioned at the origin of the x-y plane. You
can apply a Displacement and a Rotation to this configuration in the Position and
Orientation of Output section.

142 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Finally, each fin is a separate domain and can be easily deleted, and selections can be
defined, for example for the base bottom face (Boundary Selections section) or the array
of fins (Domain Selections section).

Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types Part

The dimensions of the base and the fins can be parameterized, as shown on
Figure 3-15. In addition, an offset from the base border can be added.

n_fins_x=3
n_fins_y=4 Y_fins_top_2
Y_fins_top
X_fins_top

Z_fins

Z_base o_y
o_x
Y_fins_bottom_2

Y_fins_bottom X_fins_bottom

Y_base X_base

Figure 3-15: Fins and base parameters in Heat Sink - Parameterized part

3D AND SHELL FINS

When the thickness of the fins is small in the x-direction, the fins can be defined as
boundaries instead of solids in order to reduce the size of the model. Indeed, small
elements are required to mesh the fins across their thickness in this case. It is done by
setting the shell parameter to 1. The default meshes obtained with shell = 0 (left)

HEAT PART LIBRARY | 143

 and shell=1 (right) are shown in Table 3-14 for an example configuration. Setting
shell to 1 significantly reduces the number of mesh elements, as shown below.

TABLE 3-14: DEFAULT TETRAHEDRAL MESH WITH 3D FINS AND SHELL FINS

SHELL=0 SHELL=1

Mesh statistics: Mesh statistics:

8003 tetrahedra 906 tetrahedra
5900 triangles 1058 triangles
1220 edge elements 312 edge elements
104 vertex elements 56 vertex elements

Note that when shell=1, the X_fins_bottom, Y_fins_bottom, X_fins_top, and

Y_fins_top parameters are not used.

STEP
A step can be defined in the x-direction at the center on the base. The parameter
step_width specifies the number of filled gaps from middle to border by the step, as
shown on Figure 3-16. This option is not available for shell fins (shell=1).

144 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 step=1

step_height step_height
step_width=1 step_width=1

(odd number of fins in x-direction) (even number of fins in x-direction)

Figure 3-16: Step parameters in Heat Sink - Parameterized part

FILLET
Finally, a fillet transformation can be applied at the top and bottom of the fins, as
shown on Figure 3-17. The fillet transformation at the bottom of the fins is not
available for shell fins (shell=1).

fillet_top=1

fillet_bottom=1

Figure 3-17: Fillet parameters in Heat Sink - Parameterized part

HEAT PART LIBRARY | 145

 Heat Sink - Dissimilar Border Pins Part
This part inherits all the functionalities of the Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types part,
but different dimensions are set by default for the inner and outer fins in the
y-direction:

• Y_fins_bottom = 3 mm (outer fins) and Y_fins_bottom_2 = 6 mm (inner fins)

• Y_fins_top = 3 mm (outer fins) and Y_fins_top_2 = 6 mm (inner fins)

Heat Sink - Pin Fins Part

This part inherits all the functionalities of the Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types part,
but identical dimensions are enforced for the inner and outer fins in the y-direction:

• Y_fins_bottom = 3 mm (all fins)

• Y_fins_top = 3 mm (all fins)

Heat Sink - Straight Fins Part

This part inherits all the functionalities of the Heat Sink - Parameterized Fin Types part,
but the y-direction parameters are enforced to define straight fins.

In addition, notch and chamfer transformations can be applied to the fins, as shown
on Figure 3-18.

notch=1 chamfer=1

notch_height chamfer_height
notch_width chamfer_width

Figure 3-18: Notch and chamfer parameters in Heat Sink - Straight Fins part

146 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

R e f e r e nc e s
1. J.L. Monteith and M.H. Unsworth, Principles of Environmental Physics, Edward
Arnold, London, 290 pp., 1990.

REFERENCES | 147
148 | CHAPTER 3: MODELING WITH THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE
 4

Theory for the Heat Transfer Module

This chapter details the theory of the physics interfaces, multiphysics couplings,
and features found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ).

In this chapter:

• Foundations of the General Heat Transfer Equation

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids
• Theory for Bioheat Transfer
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous Media
• Theory for Heat Transfer with Phase Change
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Building Materials
• Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer
• Theory for Lumped Isothermal Domain
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures
• Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media
• Theory for Moisture Transport

149
 • Theory for the Heat Transfer Multiphysics Couplings
• Theory for Thermal Contact
• Moist Air Fluid Type
• Temperature Dependence of Surface Tension
• Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer
• The Heat Transfer Coefficients
• Equivalent Thermal Conductivity Correlations
• Heat Flux and Heat Balance
• Frames for the Heat Transfer Equations
• References

150 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Foundations of the General Heat
T r a ns f e r E qua ti on
This section presents basic results leading to the heat transfer equations solved in
COMSOL Multiphysics. Starting by a presentation of heat as another mode of energy
transfer different from work, the energy conservation laws that apply lead to the
establishment of The Heat Balance Equation. The latter is further derived to give the
different versions of the heat transfer equations in various media.

In this section:

• Thermodynamic Description of Heat Transfer

• The Physical Mechanisms under Heat Transfer
• The Heat Balance Equation
• Consistency with Mass and Momentum Conservation Laws

Thermodynamic Description of Heat Transfer

In continuum mechanics, a domain Ω is submitted to variations of its kinetic energy
due to some external forces according to an equation of motion. The study of such
phenomena is covered by solid mechanics and fluid mechanics and the theories behind
can be found in the Structural Mechanics Module User’s Guide and CFD Module
User’s Guide. From an energy point of view, the aforementioned description is
incomplete because it does not include heat as another form of energy transfer due to
microscopic vibration and interactions of particles. The laws of thermodynamics
introduce several concepts to define heat transfer consistently with mechanical energy.
In the next paragraphs, a concise presentation of the theory adapted to the use of
COMSOL Multiphysics is given. More materials and details are provided in the
references listed in the References section.

EXTENSIVE PARAMETERS CHARACTERIZING A SYSTEM

A homogeneous fluid taking place in a domain Ω is characterized by the knowledge of
three extensive parameters:

• The entropy, SΩ (SI unit: J),

FOUNDATIONS OF THE GENERAL HEAT TRANSFER EQUATION | 151

 • The volume, VΩ (SI unit: m3),
• The mass, MΩ (SI unit: kg).

The internal energy, EΩ (SI unit: J), is an extensive state function of these three
variables. It measures the amount of energy in the system excluding kinetic energy and
potential energy from external applied forces and is the subject of conservation laws
more detailed in The Heat Balance Equation section. To fit with the finite element
method solved by COMSOL Multiphysics, specific quantities per unit mass are
preferred:

SΩ VΩ
S = --------- ν = ---------
MΩ MΩ

The specific internal energy, E (SI unit: J/kg), is then a function of specific entropy,
S, and specific volume, ν, related to EΩ by:

1
E ( S, ν ) = --------- E Ω ( S Ω, V Ω, M Ω )
MΩ

For a solid, the specific internal energy, E(S, F), is a function of entropy and
deformation gradient, F.

Internal energy is related to the enthalpy, H, via the following for a fluid:

p
H = E + ---
ρ

or the following for a solid (7.33 in Ref. 1):

1
H = E – --------------------- P:F
det(F)ρ

Compared to the internal energy, the enthalpy also includes the pressure-volume
potential energy, p ⁄ ρ, necessary for instance in volume expansion after an isobaric
transformation.

FIRST-ORDER PARAMETERS
The variations of internal energy correspond to variations of entropy and volume
according to:

∂E ∂E
dE =   dS +   dν
 ∂ S ν ∂ν  S

152 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

First-order parameters are partial derivatives of the specific internal energy. They
correspond to the thermodynamic definitions of temperature and pressure:

∂E ∂E
T =   p = –  (4-1)
 ∂ S ν ∂ν  S

These lead to the fundamental thermodynamic relation:

dE = T dS – p dν

Temperature is the measurable quantity that gives a phenomenological

description of heat transfer. When expressed in kelvin (K), the Second
Law of Thermodynamics ensures that T can only take positive values.

Similar relations as those of Equation 4-1 hold for solids:

∂E ∂E
T =   P = det(F)ρ   (4-2)
∂S F ∂F S

1
dE = T dS + --------------------- P: dF
det(F)ρ

Here, the counterpart of the fluid pressure is the first Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor, P.

SECOND ORDER PARAMETERS

Second order parameters correspond to second partial derivatives of the specific
internal energy and provide a various number of thermodynamic coefficients. These
are usually given as material properties of the domain material. Among them, the heat
capacity at constant pressure and the coefficient of thermal expansion are most often
provided. For a fluid, these are

T 1
C p = --------------- α p = ------------------- (4-3)
 ∂T ν  ∂T
 ∂ S ν ∂ν S

and for a solid, the definitions become:

–1
– 1 ∂T
α = F  
T
C p = ---------------- (4-4)
∂T  ∂ F S
 
 ∂ S F

FOUNDATIONS OF THE GENERAL HEAT TRANSFER EQUATION | 153

 Specific heat capacity at constant pressure is the amount of energy required to raise one
unit of mass of a substance by one degree while maintained at constant pressure. This
quantity is also commonly referred to as specific heat or specific heat capacity.

The heat capacity at constant pressure and coefficient of thermal expansion are related
to the enthalpy, seen as a function of T and p (or P), according to:

 ∂H = C  ∂H = ν ( 1 – α T )
∂T p p ∂p  T p

 ∂H = C  ∂H = --------------------

1 -
F ( – I + αT )
 ∂T P p  ∂ P T det(F)ρ

The enthalpy can then be retrieved from Cp and αp (or α) by:

r1
H = H ref + r ∇r H ( r ) ⋅ dr
0
(4-5)

where r is the integration vector variable, containing temperature and pressure or

stress tensor components:

P
 11
P 
 22
P 
 33
r =  p or r = P 
 T  12
P 
 23
P 
 13
 T 

The starting point, r0, is the value of r at reference conditions, that is, pref (1 atm) and
Tref (293.15 K) for a fluid. The ending point, r1, is the solution returned after
simulation. In theory any value can be assigned to the enthalpy at reference conditions,
Href (Ref. 2), and COMSOL Multiphysics sets it to 0 J/kg by default. The integral in

154 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Equation 4-5 is sometimes referred to as the sensible enthalpy (Ref. 2) and is evaluated
by numerical integration.

For the evaluation of H to work, it is important that the dependencies of

Cp, ρ, and γ on the temperature are prescribed either via Model Inputs or
as functions of the temperature variable. If Cp, ρ, or γ depends on the
pressure, that dependency must be prescribed either via a model input or
by using the variable pA, which is the variable for the absolute pressure in
COMSOL Multiphysics.

The Physical Mechanisms under Heat Transfer

The amount of heat transferred per unit time (heat transfer rate) depends on the
underlying physical mechanisms that define the mode of transfer. These are:

• Conduction — Heat conduction (or diffusion) occurs as a consequence of different

mechanisms in different media. Theoretically, it takes place in a gas through
collisions of molecules; in a fluid through oscillations of each molecule in a “cage”
formed by its nearest neighbors; in metals mainly by electrons carrying heat and in
other solids by molecular motion, which in crystals take the form of lattice vibrations
known as phonons.
In a continuous medium, Fourier’s law of heat conduction states that the
conductive heat flux, q, is proportional to the temperature gradient:
q = – k∇T (4-6)

The coefficient of proportionality, k, is the thermal conductivity (SI unit: W/(m·K))

and takes a positive value meaning that heat flows from regions of high temperature
to low temperature. More generally, the thermal conductivity can take the form of
a symmetric positive-definite second-order tensor (matrix) in anisotropic media
such as composite materials:

k xx k xy k xz
k = k xy k yy k yz
k xz k yz k zz

Thermal conductivity tensors that do not respect the symmetric

positive-definite property lead to unphysical results (Ref. 3).

FOUNDATIONS OF THE GENERAL HEAT TRANSFER EQUATION | 155

 • Convection — Heat convection (sometimes called heat advection) takes place
through the net displacement of a fluid that transports the heat content with its
velocity. The term convection (especially convective cooling and convective heating)
also refers to the heat dissipation from a solid surface to a fluid, typically described
by a heat transfer coefficient.
• Radiation — Heat transfer by radiation takes place through the transport of
photons. Participating (or semitransparent) media absorb, emit, and scatter
photons. Opaque surfaces absorb or reflect them.

The Heat Balance Equation

The equations of heat transfer in continua are derived from the first law of
thermodynamics, commonly referred to as the principle of conservation of energy. The
present part establishes the heat balance equation in its integral and localized forms
that stand as a root for deriving the different heat transfer equations solved in
COMSOL Multiphysics.

INTEGRAL FORM
The first law of thermodynamics states that the variations of macroscopic kinetic
energy, KΩ, and internal energy, EΩ, of a domain Ω are caused either by the mechanical
power of forces applied to the system, Pext, or by exchanged heat rate, Qexch (2.3.53
in Ref. 4):

dE Ω dK Ω
----------- + ----------- = P ext + Q exch (4-7)
dt dt

Mass and momentum balance are needed to complete the description of the system.
The mechanical laws, either for solids or fluids, generate the following balance
equation between variation of kinetic energy, KΩ, stress power, Pstr, and power of
applied forces, Pext (2.3.64 in Ref. 4):

dK Ω
----------- + P str = P ext (4-8)
dt

This equation involves quantities of the macroscopic level where the variation of the
kinetic energy due to some forces applied to it reflects a sensible displacement. In
COMSOL Multiphysics, the Solid Mechanics or Single-Phase Flow interfaces are
examples of physics interfaces that simulate the macroscopic level described by
Equation 4-8.

156 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Combining Equation 4-7 and Equation 4-8 yields the so-called heat balance equation
(2.3.65 in Ref. 4):

dE Ω
----------- = P str + Q exch (4-9)
dt

This time, the equation involves quantities of the microscopic level (exchanged heat
rate, Qexch, and internal energy, EΩ) more concerned with the atomic vibrations and
similar microscopic phenomena that are felt as heat. The presence of the stress power,
Pstr, in both Equation 4-8 and Equation 4-9 stands for the fact that such power is
converted into heat by dissipation. The Heat Transfer interfaces, described in the next
sections, simulate the heat exchanges described by Equation 4-9.

LOCALIZED FORM
In this paragraph, the different terms of Equation 4-9 are more detailed to obtain the
localized form of the heat balance equation.

Variation of Internal Energy

The equations given in the previous paragraph holds for a given macroscopic
continuous domain Ω where the internal energy is defined using the specific internal
energy (per unit mass), E, as:

EΩ = Ω E dm
Note that by conservation of mass, the variation of internal energy in time is:

dE Ω dE dE
----------- =
dt Ω d t dm = Ω ρ d t dv
In these last relations, ρ is the density, and dv denotes an elementary volume of Ω.
Contrary to the constant elementary mass, dm, the elementary volume changes by
expansion or contraction of the domain. Recall that the derivation operator d ⁄ dt
under the integrals is in the material frame (see Time Derivative in the Frames for the
Heat Transfer Equations section).

Stress Power
The stress power, derived from the Continuum Mechanics theory, is defined by
(2.3.59 in Ref. 4):

P str = Ω ( σ:D ) dv

FOUNDATIONS OF THE GENERAL HEAT TRANSFER EQUATION | 157

 where σ is the Cauchy stress tensor and D is the strain rate tensor. The operation “:”
is a contraction and can in this case be written on the following form:

a:b =   anm bnm

n m

Note that in fluid mechanics, the Cauchy stress tensor is divided into a static part for
the pressure, p, and a symmetric deviatoric part, τ, as in:

σ = – pI + τ (4-10)

so that Pstr becomes the following sum of pressure-volume work and viscous
dissipation:

P str = Ω p ( ∇ ⋅ u ) dv – Ω ( τ: ∇u ) dv
Equivalently, the stress power can also be expressed as:

1  P:  dv
dF
P str = Ω -----------------
det(F)  d t 

Exchanged Heat
Finally, the exchanged heat rates, Qexch, account for thermal conduction (see Fourier’s
Law at Equation 4-6), radiation and potentially additional heat sources. Joule heating
and exothermic chemical reactions are such examples of domain heat source. The
different kinds of exchanged heat are summarized by the equality below:

Q exch = – ∂Ω ( q ⋅ n ) ds – ∂Ω ( qr ⋅ n ) ds + Ω Q dv

Recall the following notations used above: q for the heat flux by conduction, qr for
the heat flux by radiation, Q for additional heat sources, and n for the external normal
vector to the boundary ∂Ω.

Localized Heat Balance Equation

With all these elements, the heat balance equation (Equation 4-9) becomes:

dE
Ω ρ d t dv + ∂Ω ( q ⋅ n ) ds + ∂Ω ( qr ⋅ n ) ds = Ω ( σ:D ) dv + Ω Q dv (4-11)

which leads to the following localized form in the material frame:

158 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 dE
ρ + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = σ:D + Q (4-12)
dt

or equivalently in the spatial frame:

∂E
ρ + ρu ⋅ ∇E + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = σ:D + Q (4-13)
∂t

This verbally means that variations of internal energy in time are balanced by
convection of internal energy, thermal conduction, radiation, dissipation of mechanical
stress and additional volumetric heat sources. In the next sections, Equation 4-13 will
be derived to obtain the heat transfer equations in different media.

See Frames for the Heat Transfer Equations for more details about the use
of material and spatial frames in the Heat Transfer interfaces.

Consistency with Mass and Momentum Conservation Laws

Although the heat transfer interfaces only solve for the energy equation, the context
leading to Equation 4-13 does account for the three additional conservation laws that
complete the Continuum Mechanics theory:

• Conservation of mass
• Conservation of linear momentum
• Conservation of angular momentum

The equations corresponding to each of them are recalled below in Table 4-1. For
more details about the theory of Solid and Fluid Mechanics, see the Structural
Mechanics Module User’s Guide and CFD Module User’s Guide.
TABLE 4-1: CONSERVATION OF MASS AND MOMENTUM

CONSERVATION LAW MATHEMATICAL MATHEMATICAL EXPRESSION IN SPATIAL

EXPRESSION IN FRAME
MATERIAL FRAME

Conservation of ρ 0 = ρdet(F) ∂ρ
Mass + ∇ ⋅ ( ρu ) = 0
∂t
Conservation of du ∂u
Linear Momentum ρ = ∇ ⋅ σ + Fv ρ + ρ ( u ⋅ ∇ )u = ∇ ⋅ σ + F v
dt ∂t
Conservation of T T
σ = σ σ = σ
Angular Momentum

FOUNDATIONS OF THE GENERAL HEAT TRANSFER EQUATION | 159

 When modeling a heat transfer problem with one of the Heat Transfer interfaces, the
aforementioned laws needs to be respected. For example, the velocity field, u,
provided in the energy equation and responsible for convection in a fluid, should
satisfy the continuity equation here below in order to avoid unphysical results.

∂ρ
+ ∇ ⋅ ( ρu ) = 0
∂t

This is especially true when the velocity field is not computed from an additional
physics interface — such as Single-Phase Flow that solves for the continuity equation
— but instead defined by a custom expression in a Heat Transfer interface.

160 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids
The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface solves for the following equation derived from
Equation 4-13:

∂T
ρC p  ------- + u trans ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = – αT: + Q
dS
(4-14)
 ∂t  dt

The different quantities involved here are recalled below:

• ρ is the density (SI unit: kg/m3)

• Cp is the specific heat capacity at constant stress (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• T is the absolute temperature (SI unit: K)
• utrans is the velocity vector of translational motion (SI unit: m/s)
• q is the heat flux by conduction (SI unit: W/m2)
• qr is the heat flux by radiation (SI unit: W/m2)
• α is the coefficient of thermal expansion (SI unit: 1/K)
• S is the second Piola-Kirchhoff stress tensor (SI unit: Pa)
• Q contains additional heat sources (SI unit: W/m3)

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the terms
with time derivatives disappear.

The first term on the right-hand side of Equation 4-14 is the thermoelastic damping
and accounts for thermoelastic effects in solids:

dS
Q ted = – αT: (4-15)
dt

It should be noted that the d ⁄ dt operator is the material derivative, as described in the
Time Derivative subsection of Material and Spatial Frames.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS | 161

 Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids
The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface solves for the following equation (11.2-5 in
Ref. 5):

∂T ∂p
ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p + τ: ∇u + Q (4-16)
 ∂t  ∂t 

which is derived from Equation 4-13, considering that:

• the Cauchy stress tensor, σ, is split into static and deviatoric parts as in:
σ = – pI + τ

• the dependent variables are the temperature, T, and pressure, p.

The different quantities involved here are recalled below:

• ρ is the density (SI unit: kg/m3)

• Cp is the specific heat capacity at constant pressure (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• T is the absolute temperature (SI unit: K)
• u is the velocity vector (SI unit: m/s)
• q is the heat flux by conduction (SI unit: W/m2)
• qr is the heat flux by radiation (SI unit: W/m2)
• αp is the coefficient of thermal expansion (SI unit: 1/K):

1 ∂ρ
α p = – ---
ρ ∂T

for ideal gases, the thermal expansion coefficient takes the simpler form αp = 1 ⁄ T
• p is the pressure (SI unit: Pa)
• τ is the viscous stress tensor (SI unit: Pa)
• Q contains heat sources other than viscous dissipation (SI unit: W/m3)

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the terms
with time derivatives disappear.

The first term of the right-hand side of Equation 4-16 is the work done by pressure
changes and is the result of heating under adiabatic compression as well as some
thermoacoustic effects. It is generally small for low Mach number flows.

162 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 ∂p
Q p = α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p (4-17)
∂t

The second term represents viscous dissipation in the fluid:

Q vd = τ: ∇u (4-18)

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS | 163

 Theory for Bioheat Transfer
The Bioheat Equation
The Bioheat Transfer Interface solves for the bioheat equation using Pennes’
approximation (Ref. 6). This is used to model heat transfer within biological tissue. It
accounts for heat sources from blood perfusion and metabolism in the classical heat
transfer equation:

∂T
ρCp + ∇ ⋅ q = ρ b C p, b ω b ( T b – T ) + Q met (4-19)
∂t

The different quantities involved here are recalled below:

• ρ is the density of the tissue (SI unit: kg/m3)

• Cp is the specific heat capacity at constant pressure of the tissue (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• T is the absolute temperature of the tissue (SI unit: K)
• q is the heat flux by conduction in the tissue (SI unit: W/m2)
• ρb is the blood density (SI unit: kg/m3)
• Cp, b is the blood specific heat capacity at constant pressure (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• ωb is the blood perfusion rate (SI unit: 1/s)
• Tb is the arterial blood temperature (SI unit: K)
• Qmet is the metabolic heat source (SI unit: W/m3)

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the terms
with time derivatives disappear.

There are specific predefined materials available in the Bioheat material

database. See Materials Overview and Bioheat Materials Database in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Damaged Tissue
Add a Thermal Damage subnode under the Biological Tissue node to calculate tissue
damage.

164 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

In hyperthermia and cryogenic processes, tissue necrosis (permanent damage or death
of living tissue) occurs when one of the two following phenomenas happens:

• an excessive thermal energy is absorbed (hyperthermia process) or released

(cryogenic process),
• a critical high (hyperthermia process) or low (cryogenic process) temperature is
exceeded.

Correspondingly, COMSOL Multiphysics has two ways to model energy absorption

— computing the period of time the tissue remained in the necrotic temperature
interval and direct time integration of the energy.

Temperature Threshold
In the first form of damage integral, tissue necrosis occurs in four cases:

• When the temperature exceeds the hyperthermia damage temperature Td, h for
more than a certain time period td, h,
• When the temperature falls below the cryogenic damage temperature Td, c for more
than a certain time period td, c,
• Instantly after the temperature exceeds the hyperthermia necrosis temperature
Tn, h,
• Instantly after the temperature falls below the cryogenic necrosis temperature Tn, c.

For the first two cases, the damaged tissue indicator, α, defined either by

t
1
α = ----------
t d, h 0 ϕd, h dt
for hyperthermia analysis, or by

t
1
α = ---------
t d, c 0 ϕd, c dt
for cryogenic analysis, with

1 if T > T d, h 1 if T < T d, c
ϕ d, h ( t ) =  ϕ d, c ( t ) = 
0 otherwise 0 otherwise

is the ratio of the period of time when T > Td, h to the time limit td, h, or the ratio of
the period of time when T < Td, c to the time limit td, c. It gives an indication of

THEORY FOR BIOHEAT TRANSFER | 165

 damage state of the tissue. When it reaches 1, the tissue is necrotic. The fraction of
necrotic tissue corresponds to the quantity min(α, 1).

For the last two cases, the necrosis time indicator, αnecr, defined either by

t
α necr =  0 ϕ n, h d t
for hyperthermia analysis, or by

t
α necr = 0 ϕn, c dt
for cryogenic analysis, with

1 if T > T n, h 1 if T < T n, c
ϕ n, h ( t ) =  ϕ n, c ( t ) = 
0 otherwise 0 otherwise

evaluates the period of time when T > Tn, h or the period of time when T < Tn, c. If
αnecr > 0, the tissue is necrotic because it already reached the necrosis temperatures
Tn, h or Tn, c at some time step of the simulation. Hence, the fraction of necrotic tissue
due to immediate necrosis is equal to 1 if αnecr > 0 and 0 otherwise.

Combining all cases, the overall fraction of necrotic tissue, θd, is equal to:

 1 if α necr > 0
θd =  (4-20)
 min(α, 1) otherwise

Arrhenius Kinetics
The second form of damage integral is applicable only for hyperthermia processes and
provides the degree of tissue injury, α, based on the polynomial Arrhenius equation:

– ΔE
∂α -----------
------- = ( 1 – α ) n Ae RT
∂t

Here, A is the frequency factor (SI unit: 1/s), and ΔE is the activation energy for the
irreversible damage reaction (SI unit: J/mol). The parameters A and ΔE are dependent
on the type of tissue and have been characterized for liver tissues by Jacques et others
(Ref. 7) to be A = 7.39 ⋅ 1039 s–1 and ΔE = 2.577 ⋅ 105 J/mol. See Ref. 8, Ref. 9, and
Ref. 10 for the characterization of these parameters for prostate, skin, and fat. See also
Ref. 11 and Ref. 12 for more references on biological tissues material properties.

166 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The fraction of necrotic tissue is then expressed by:

θ d = min(max ( α, 0 ), 1) (4-21)

Thermal Properties
The material properties of the damaged tissue are redefined to take into account the
influence of tissue injury. If ρd, Cp, d, and kd denote the density, heat capacity at
constant pressure, and thermal conductivity of the necrotic tissue, respectively, then
two effective quantities are defined:

• The effective thermal conductivity, keff = θdkd + (1 − θd)k

• The effective heat capacity at constant pressure, (ρCp)eff = θdρdCp, d + (1 − θd)ρCp

In these equalities, θd takes one of the two definitions given above in Equation 4-20
or Equation 4-21 according to the integral form chosen.

Heat Source
A cooling or heating source is associated with the reaction leading to damage of tissue.
Depending on the damage integral model, this source is expressed as follows:

• Temperature threshold for hyperthermia analysis:

∂θ d
Q = – ρL d, h --------- ( T > T d, h )
∂t

• Temperature threshold for cryogenic analysis:

∂θ d
Q = ρL d, c --------- ( T < T d, c )
∂t

• Energy absorption:
∂θ d
Q = – ρL ----------
∂t

THEORY FOR BIOHEAT TRANSFER | 167

 Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous
Media
The heat transfer equation for porous media is derived from the mixture rule on
energies appearing in solid and fluid heat transfer equations (see Ref. 13). For
undeformed immobile solids, Equation 4-14 simplifies into:

∂T s
ρ s C p, s --------- + ∇ ⋅ q s = Q s
∂t

and for a fluid domain where pressure work and viscous dissipation are neglected,
Equation 4-16 becomes:

∂T f
ρ f C p, f --------- + ρ f C p, f u f ⋅ ∇T f + ∇ ⋅ q f = Q f
∂t

The mixture rule applies by multiplying the first equation by the solid volume fraction,
θp, multiplying the second one by the porosity, 1−θp, and summing resulting
equations.

The local thermal equilibrium hypothesis assumes equality of temperature in both fluid
and solid phases:

Tf = Ts = T (4-22)

The theory for this hypothesis is detailed in the section Local Thermal Equilibrium
below. Otherwise, the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium section describes the theory
for modeling heat transfer in porous media using two temperatures.

When Should Local Thermal Equilibrium and Non-Equilibrium be

Considered?
The classical local equilibrium hypothesis in modeling heat transfer in porous media
considers pointwise equality of solid and fluid temperatures as said in Equation 4-22.
The Local Thermal Equilibrium section below details the derivation of the energy
equation considering such assumption that remains accurately sufficient for several
applications. Ref. 29 shows for instance that solid and fluid temperatures are equal in
steady conduction problems where only prescribed temperature conditions are

168 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

applied. Most slow motion problems can also assume equality of phase temperatures if
volumetric internal heating do not differ in both materials.

In the case of conduction in porous plates, Ref. 30 provides criteria based on the
dimensionless Sparrow number, Sp, to indicate if temperature equilibrium is still valid
or if a non-equilibrium point of view should be preferred. In Ref. 31, the influence of
the Darcy number, Da, and the ratio of phase conductivities is examined for transient
heat transfer in packed beds. The Sparrow and Darcy numbers are defined by:

2
h sf L κ
Sp = --------------- Da = -----2-
k eff r h d

where:

• hsf is the interstitial heat transfer coefficient between solid and fluid phases (SI unit:
W/(m2·K))
• L is the plate layer thickness (SI unit: m)
• keff is the equivalent thermal conductivity of the porous medium (SI unit:
W/(m·K))
• rh is the hydraulic radius (SI unit: m)
• κ is the permeability (SI unit: m2)
• d is the average particle diameter (SI unit: m)

In the situations described in Ref. 30 and Ref. 31, small values of Sp (less than 100 or
500) and large values of Da (from order of magnitude 10-7) indicate discrepancies of
temperature in each phase. However, in general, assessing the validity of local thermal
equilibrium assumption remains not straightforward in specific situations. The Local
Thermal Non-Equilibrium approach, described below, makes use of two energy
equations, one for each phase of the porous medium, that solve for two temperature
fields. It numerically doubles the number of freedom to solve but provides a general
frame for heat transfer in porous media where evaluating the validity of the equilibrium
hypothesis is not required anymore.

Local Thermal Equilibrium

The local thermal equilibrium hypothesis of Equation 4-22 implies a common
temperature, T, for both solid and fluid phase. The Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Interface solves for the following version of the heat equation (Ref. 16), reformulated
using T:

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA | 169

 ∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q (4-23)
∂t

q = – k eff ∇T (4-24)

The different quantities appearing here are:

• ρ is the fluid density.

• Cp is the fluid heat capacity at constant pressure.
• (ρCp)eff is the effective volumetric heat capacity at constant pressure, defined by
( ρC p ) eff = θ p ρ p C p, p + ( 1 – θ p )ρC p

• keff is the effective thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if the thermal

conductivity is anisotropic).
• q is the conductive heat flux.
• u is the velocity field, either an analytic expression or computed from a Fluid Flow
interface. It should be interpreted as the Darcy velocity, that is, the volume flow rate
per unit cross sectional area. The average linear velocity (the velocity within the
pores) can be calculated as uf = u/(1−θp), where (1−θp) is the fluid’s volume fraction,
or equivalently the porosity.
• Q is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as separate physics
features.

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time, and the terms
with time derivatives of Equation 4-23 disappear.

The effective thermal conductivity of the solid-fluid system, keff, is related to the
conductivity of the solid, kp, and to the conductivity of the fluid, k, and depends in a
complex way on the geometry of the medium. In Ref. 13, three models are proposed
for an isotropic medium:

• If the heat conduction occurs in parallel in the solid and the fluid, then the effective
thermal conductivity is the weighted arithmetic mean of the conductivities k and kp:
k eff = θ p k p + ( 1 – θ p )k

This volume average model provides an upper bound for the effective thermal
conductivity.

170 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• If the heat conduction takes place in series, with all of the heat flux passing through
both solid and fluid, then the effective thermal conductivity is the weighted
harmonic mean of the conductivities k and kp:

1- θp ( 1 – θp )
-------- = ------ + --------------------
k eff kp k

This reciprocal average model provides a lower bound for the effective thermal
conductivity.
• A last estimate is given by the weighted geometric mean of k and kp:

θ 1 – θp
k eff = k pp ⋅ k

This model provides a good estimate as long as k and kp are not too different from
each other.

When k and kp are equal the three models give the same effective thermal conductivity.

Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface implements heat transfer in porous
media for which the temperatures into the porous matrix and the fluid are not in
equilibrium.

EQUATIONS FOR LOCAL NON-EQUILIBRIUM HEAT TRANSFER

Non-equilibrium heat transfer in porous media for binary systems of rigid porous
matrix and fluid phase are governed by a set of two equations. These are the usual heat
equations for solids and fluids, multiplied by the volume fractions θp and (1 − θp)
respectively, and with an additional source term quantifying exchanged heat between
both phases (2.12 and 2.13 in Ref. 13):

∂T s
θ p ρ s C p, s --------- + ∇ ⋅ q s = q sf ( T f – T s ) + θ p Q s (4-25)
∂t

q s = – θ p k s ∇T s

∂T f
( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f -------- + ( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f u f ⋅ ∇T f + ∇ ⋅ q f = q sf ( T s – T f ) + ( 1 – θ p )Q f
∂t

q f = – ( 1 – θ p )k f ∇T f

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA | 171

 In these expressions:

• θp is the solid volume fraction (SI unit: 1)

• ρs and ρf are the solid and fluid densities (SI unit: kg/m3)
• Cp, s and Cp, f are the solid and fluid heat capacities at constant pressure (SI unit:
J/(kg·K))
• qs and qf are the solid and fluid conductive heat fluxes (SI unit: W/m2)
• ks and kf are the solid and fluid thermal conductivities (SI unit: W/(m·K))
• qsf is the interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient (SI unit: W/(m3·K))
• Qs and Qf are the solid and fluid heat sources (SI unit: W/m3)
• uf is the fluid velocity vector (SI unit: m/s)
The fluid velocity is often deduced from a porous velocity up, coming for example
from Darcy’s law or Brinkman equations, according to:

up
u f = ---------------
1 – θp

so that the heat equations in the fluid domain reduces to:

∂T f
( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f -------- + ρ f C p, f u p ⋅ ∇T f + ∇ ⋅ q f = q sf ( T s – T f ) + ( 1 – θ p )Q f (4-26)
∂t

q f = – ( 1 – θ p )k f ∇T f

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling adds the exchanged

opposite heat sources qsf(Tf − Ts) and qsf(Ts − Tf) that one phase receives from or
releases to the other when respective temperatures differ. The porous temperature, T,
has the following definition (Ref. 32):

θ p ρ s C p, s T s + ( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f T f
T = --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
θ p ρ s C p, s + ( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f

CORRELATION FOR THE INTERSTITIAL CONVECTIVE HEAT TRANSFER

COEFFICIENT
The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics feature provides a built-in
correlation for qsf in the spherical pellet bed configuration (2.14, 2.15, and 2.16 in
Ref. 13):

q sf = a sf h sf

172 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The specific surface area, asf (SI unit: 1/m), for a bed packed with spherical particles
of radius rp is:

6θ p
a sf = ---------
2r p

The interstitial heat transfer coefficient, hsf (SI unit: W/(m2·K)), satisfies the relation:

1 2r p 2r p
------- = -------------- + ---------
h sf k f Nu βk s

where β = 10 for spherical particles, and Nu is the fluid-to-solid Nusselt number

derived from following correlation (Ref. 14):

1⁄3 0.6
Nu = 2.0 + 1.1Pr Re p

The Prandtl number, Pr, and particle Reynolds number, Rep, are defined by:

μC p, f 2r p ρ f u f
Pr = -------------- Re p = --------------------------
kf μ

VOLUMETRIC AND SURFACE THERMAL CONDITIONS

Because the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling multiplies each
energy equation by its volume fraction, θp and (1 − θp) for solid and fluid phases
respectively, a heat source or heat flux defined in a couple heat transfer interface is also
accounted with that ratio. As shown in Equation 4-25 and Equation 4-26, the
volumetric heat sources θpQs and (1 − θp)Qf are applied to the energy equations while
the Heat Source features of each physics interface specify Qs and Qf.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA | 173

 Theory for Heat Transfer with Phase
Change
The Phase Change Material subnode is used to solve the heat equation after specifying
the properties of a phase change material according to the apparent heat capacity
formulation.

Instead of adding a latent heat L in the energy balance equation exactly when the
material reaches its phase change temperature Tpc, it is assumed that the
transformation occurs in a temperature interval between Tpc − ΔT ⁄ 2 and Tpc + ΔT ⁄ 2.
In this interval, the material phase is modeled by a smoothed function, θ, representing
the fraction of phase before transition, which is equal to 1 before Tpc − ΔT ⁄ 2 and to
0 after Tpc + ΔT ⁄ 2. The density, ρ, and the specific enthalpy, H, are expressed by:

ρ = θρ ph1 + ( 1 – θ )ρ ph2

1
H = --- ( θρ ph1 H ph1 + ( 1 – θ )ρ ph2 H ph2 )
ρ

where the indices ph1 and ph2 indicate a material in phase 1 or in phase 2, respectively.
Differentiating with respect to temperature, this equality provides the following
formula for the specific heat capacity:

∂H
Cp =
∂T

which becomes, after some formal transformations:

1 dα m
C p = --- ( θ 1 ρ ph1 C p, ph1 + θ 2 ρ ph2 C p, ph2 ) + ( H ph2 – H ph1 ) -----------
ρ dT

174 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Here, θ1 and θ2 are equal to θ and 1−θ, respectively. See Figure 4-1 for details.

Figure 4-1: Phase indicators, phase change temperature, and transition interval.

The mass fraction, αm, is defined from ρph1, ρph2 and θ according to:

1 θ 2 ρ ph2 – θ 1 ρ ph1
α m = --- -------------------------------------------
2 ρ

It is equal to −1 ⁄ 2 before transformation and 1 ⁄ 2 after transformation. The specific

heat capacity is the sum of an equivalent heat capacity Ceq:

1
C eq = --- ( θ 1 ρ ph1 C p, ph1 + θ 2 ρ ph2 C p, ph2 )
ρ

and the distribution of latent heat CL:

dα m
C L ( T ) = ( H ph2 – H ph1 ) -----------
dT

In the ideal case, when 1 − θ is the Heaviside function (equal to 0 before

Tpc and to 1 after Tpc), dαm ⁄ dT is the Dirac pulse.

Therefore, CL is the enthalpy jump, L, at temperature Tpc that is added

when you have a pure substance.

The latent heat distribution CL is approximated by

dα m
C L ( T ) = L -----------
dT

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER WITH PHASE CHANGE | 175

 so that the total heat per unit volume released during the phase transformation
coincides with the latent heat:

ΔT ΔT
T pc + -------- T pc + -------- dα
 
2 2 m
C ( T ) dT = L ----------- dT = L
ΔT L ΔT dT
T pc – -
------- T pc – -------
-
2 2

The latent heat, L, can depend on the absolute pressure but should not
depend on the temperature.

Finally, the apparent heat capacity, Cp, used in the heat equation, is given by:

1
C p = --- ( θ 1 ρ ph1 C p, ph1 + θ 2 ρ ph2 C p, ph2 ) + C L
ρ

The effective thermal conductivity reduces to:

k = θ 1 k ph1 + θ 2 k ph2

and the effective density is:

ρ = θ 1 ρ ph1 + θ 2 ρ ph2

To satisfy energy and mass conservation in phase change models, particular attention
should be paid to the density in time simulations. When the fluid density is not
constant over time, for example, dependent on the temperature, the transport velocity
field and the density must be defined so that mass is conserved locally.

The Moving Mesh Interface (described in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual) can be used to account for model deformation.

Phase change in solid materials

When phase change is considered in solid materials, the density is defined on the
material frame. Therefore a single density should be defined for the different phases to
ensure mass conservation on the material frame:

ρ = ρ ph1 = ρ ph2

The expression of the specific enthalpy, H, simplifies to:

176 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 H = θH ph1 + ( 1 – θ )H ph2

The apparent heat capacity, Cp, used in the heat equation, is given by:

dα m
C p = ( θ 1 C p, ph1 + θ 2 C p, ph2 ) + L -----------
dT

where the mass fraction is:

θ2 – θ1
α m = -----------------
2

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER WITH PHASE CHANGE | 177

 Theory for Heat Transfer in Building
Materials
The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface solves for the following equations
derived from Ref. 15:

∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ∇ ⋅ q = Q (4-27)
∂t

q = – ( k eff ∇T + L v δ p ∇( φp sat ) ) (4-28)

which is derived from Equation 4-13, considering the building material as a porous
medium in local thermal equilibrium in which the following mixing rules apply:

• (ρCp)eff (SI unit: J/(m3·K)) is the effective volumetric heat capacity at constant
pressure, defined to account for both solid matrix and moisture properties:
( ρC p ) eff = ρ s C p, s + wC p, w

where ρs (SI unit: kg/m3) is the dry solid density, Cp,s (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the dry
solid specific heat capacity, w (SI unit: kg/m3) is the water content given by a
moisture storage function, and Cp,w (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the water heat capacity at
constant pressure.
• keff (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the effective thermal conductivity, defined as a function
of the solid matrix and moisture properties:

k eff = k s  1 + --------
bw
 ρs 

where ks (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the dry solid thermal conductivity and b
(dimensionless) is the thermal conductivity supplement.
This definition neglects the contribution due to the volume fraction change of the
moist air.

The heat source due to moisture content variation is expressed as the vapor diffusion
flow multiplied by latent heat of evaporation:

L v δ p ∇( φp sat )

178 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

where Lv (SI unit: J/kg) is the latent heat of evaporation, δp (SI unit: s) is the vapor
permeability, φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity, and psat (SI unit: Pa) is the
vapor saturation pressure.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN BUILDING MATERIALS | 179

 Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer
When submitted to periodic sinusoidal heat loads at a given frequency, the temperature
response of a body can, in some cases, be assumed periodic, sinusoidal, and of same
frequency around an equilibrium temperature. If the temperature changes are small
enough or if the thermal properties are constant, this time-dependent periodic
problem may be replaced by an equivalent linear steady-state problem in the frequency
domain, which is far less computationally expensive. The Heat Transfer interfaces
support such frequency domain studies via the Thermal Perturbation, Frequency Domain
study sequence.

In complex notations, the aforementioned temperature decomposition is expressed as:

jωt
T ( t ) = T 0 + T'e (4-29)

where T0 is the equilibrium temperature that verifies the steady-state heat transfer
equation and may come from the solution of a previous study, T′ is the complex
amplitude of the harmonic perturbation around T0, and ω is the angular frequency,
related to the ordinary frequency, f, according to

ω = 2πf

Note: The amplitude, T′, is complex-valued since it includes the phase term ejϕ.

From the temperature decomposition in Equation 4-29, and according to the heat
transfer equation in Equation 4-14, heat transfer by conduction in solids is then
governed by:

jωt jωt jωt

jωρC p T'e + ∇ ⋅ ( – k∇T 0 ) + ∇ ⋅ ( – k∇T' )e = Q + Q'e

where Q′ejωt is the harmonic perturbation in domain around an average heat source,
Q. Removing the terms of the steady-state heat transfer equation satisfied by T0, and
simplifying by ejωt, this reduces to:

jωρC p T' + ∇ ⋅ ( – k∇T' ) = Q'

180 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

which is the governing equation for T′. For constant material properties, the linearized
form reads:

jωρ 0 C p, 0 T' + ∇ ⋅ ( – k 0 ∇T' ) = Q' (4-30)

and for nonlinear material properties:

∂k
jωρ 0 C p, 0 T' + ∇ ⋅  – k 0 ∇T' – T'   ∇T 0 = Q' (4-31)
∂ T T0

Here, ρ0, Cp, 0, and k0 denote the density, heat capacity at constant pressure, and
thermal conductivity, evaluated at T0, that is: ρ(T0), Cp(T0), and k(T0), respectively.

When the linearized heat transfer equation, such as Equation 4-30 or Equation 4-31,
can still describe the model accurately, the problem becomes steady-state in the
frequency domain, therefore computationally less expensive than a time-dependent
simulation. An automatic linearization process is performed by COMSOL
Multiphysics so that no additional action is needed from the user to get these
equations, even in the presence of temperature-dependent coefficients, in domains and
boundaries. Only the expressions of the material properties and other parameters, as
functions of the temperature, are required as for usual nonlinear modeling.

Harmonic loads can be prescribed through temperature harmonic constraints on

boundaries or heat sources on domains and boundaries.

THEORY FOR HARMONIC HEAT TRANSFER | 181

 Theory for Lumped Isothermal
Domain
The Isothermal Domain feature considers the temperature to be homogeneous in
space but not necessarily in time. This is an approximation adapted to situations where
a domain is nearly at the average temperature and with small fluctuations, for instance,
solid objects made of conductive material immersed in water, or global temperature of
a heated and well insulated room adjacent to a cold environment.

Recalling Equation 4-16 given previously in the Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids
section, without pressure-volume work and viscous dissipation, the equation to be
solved reduces to:

dT
ρC p +∇⋅q = Q
dt

Integrating this equation over the domain leads to:

dT
mC p
dt
+ S ( n ⋅ q ) ds = V Q dv (4-32)

where the domain mass and the heat capacity at constant pressure are

1
m = V ρ dv C p = -----
m V ρCp dv

182 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The exterior boundaries of each Isothermal Domain need the heat exchange to be
specified.

Isothermal domain 3

Isothermal domain 2

Isothermal domain 1

Isothermal domain interfaces

Figure 4-2: Interfaces at exterior boundaries of each Isothermal Domain.

COMSOL Multiphysics provides several types of interfaces: thermal insulation,

continuity, ventilation, convective heat flux, and thermal contact.

THERMAL INSULATION
The Thermal insulation condition prevents any heat transfer between both adjacent
domains.

CONTINUITY
The Continuity condition ensures equal temperature at both sides of the interface.

VENTILATION
The Ventilation condition is used for cases when an isothermal domain is considered
fluid and has an adjacent domain containing the same fluid. An opening lets the fluid
going from one domain to another with a determined mass flux, denoted by ϕ d → u
or ϕ u → d , respectively, along or opposite to the geometrical normal vector. The
Ventilation condition is written

THEORY FOR LUMPED ISOTHERMAL DOMAIN | 183

 –nd ⋅ qd = ϕd → u Hd – ϕu → d Hu (4-33)

CONVECTIVE HEAT FLUX

The Convective heat flux condition is adapted to cases when an isothermal domain is
considered solid and is adjacent to a fluid. Convection occurs at the interface with a
specified heat transfer coefficient, h. The interface condition reads

–nd ⋅ qd = –h ( Tu – Td ) (4-34)

THERMAL CONTACT
When an isothermal domain is considered solid and is adjacent to another solid,
thermal contact occurs and is characterized by a given thermal resistance, Rt. At the
interface, the condition Thermal contact reads

Tu – Td
– n d ⋅ q d = – -------------------- (4-35)
Rt

184 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin
Structures
In COMSOL Multiphysics, thin domains of solid, fluid or porous layered materials
have dedicated tools to model them with boundaries instead of full domains. This way,
simulations directly benefit from a reduced number of mesh elements. This section
presents the hypotheses needed for such approximations and the resulting heat transfer
equations that hold.

In this section:

• Modeling Layered Materials

• Theoretical Background of the Different Formulations
• Thin Layer
• Thin Film
• Fracture
• Thin Rod

Modeling Layered Materials

The Heat Transfer interfaces contain several lumped conditions for modeling heat
transfer in layered materials: Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Thin Rod.

In addition, standalone physics interface are available for the modeling of heat transfer
by conduction, convection and radiation in thin structures:

• The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

• The Heat Transfer in Films Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface

Either the Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface), Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface), or Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface) feature is available by default in each of these interfaces.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 185

 The features mentioned above are the counterparts of domain features for the
modeling of heat transfer in solid, fluid, and porous thin structures that can be
represented as boundaries or edges, as described in Table 4-2.
TABLE 4-2: EQUIVALENT DOMAIN AND THIN STRUCTURES FEATURES

TYPE OF MEDIUM DOMAIN FEATURE BOUNDARY FEATURE EDGE FEATURE

Solid Solid Thin Layer (ht) Thin Rod (ht)

Solid (htlsh)
Fluid Fluid Thin Film (ht) —
Fluid (htlsh)
Porous Porous Medium Fracture (ht) —
Porous Medium
(htlsh)

All these functionalities have in common the fact that the thin domains they model are
lumped into boundaries (for Thin Layer, Thin Film and Fracture) or 3D edges (for
Thin Rod).

REDUCED MESH ELEMENT NUMBER

A significant benefit is that a thin structure can be represented as a boundary instead
of a domain and a rod can be represented as a 3D edge. This simplifies the geometry
and reduces the required number of mesh elements. Figure 4-3 shows an example
where a thin structure significantly reduces the mesh density.

Copper wire modeled

with a mesh

Copper wire represented

as a thin structure

Figure 4-3: Modeling a copper wire as a domain (top) requires a denser mesh compared to
modeling it as a boundary with a conductive layer (bottom).

186 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

THIN STRUCTURE AS AN EXTRA DIMENSION
To model heat transfer through the thickness of a thin structure, or multiple
sandwiched layers with different material properties and thicknesses, COMSOL
Multiphysics gives the possibility to create a product space between the dimensions of
the boundary and an additional dimension. This is realized by the Extra Dimension
tool through either the General option of the Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and
Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells interface), Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid
(Heat Transfer in Shells interface), or Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous
Medium (Heat Transfer in Shells interface) features.

Adding Extra Dimensions to a Model and Using Extra Dimensions in the

COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra Dimensions

An additional 1D segmented line represents the thickness of the thin structure. The
number of mesh points for each interval of the extra dimension is set to 2 by default.

TANGENTIAL AND NORMAL GRADIENTS

In thin structures, the tangential gradient and the normal gradient can be more
appropriate to express the governing equations.

The normal gradient is the projection of the gradient operator onto the normal
vector, n, of the boundary representing the thin structure. This is mathematically
expressed for any scalar field T as:

∇ n T = ( ∇T ⋅ n )n

The tangential gradient removes the normal component from the gradient
operation, so that only tangential components remain. This is mathematically
expressed for any scalar field T as:

∇ t T = ∇T – ( ∇T ⋅ n )n

The gradient operator is then split into a tangential part and a normal part:

∇T = ∇ t T + ∇ n T (4-36)

This relation simplifies to:

∇T = ∇ t T or ∇T = ∇ n T

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 187

 when tangential heat transfer is dominant or negligible. These results will be useful in
the next sections describing heat transfer in the different thin structures.

It should be noted that when an extra dimension is used, the equations

are written from the point of view of the extra dimension. In particular,
the dtang() operator would correspond to ∇n since it performs the
derivation along the extra line. In the thin structure boundary, dtang()
would correspond to ∇t.

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY TENSOR IN LOCAL BOUNDARY SYSTEMS

The thermal conductivity k describes the relationship between the heat flux vector q
and the temperature gradient ∇T as in

q = – k ∇T

which is Fourier’s law of heat conduction (see also The Physical Mechanisms under
Heat Transfer).

The tensor components can be specified in the local coordinate system of the
boundary, which is defined from the geometric tangent and normal vectors. The local
x-direction, ex, loc, is the surface tangent vector t1, and the local z-direction, ez, loc, is
the normal vector n. Their cross product defines the third orthogonal direction such
that:

x, loc
e = t1
y, loc
e = n × t1
z, loc
e = n

From this, a transformation matrix between the local coordinate system and the global
coordinate system can be constructed in the following way:

x, loc y, loc z, loc

ex ex ex
A = e x, loc e y, loc e z, loc
y y y
x, loc y, loc z, loc
ez ez ez

The thermal conductivity tensor in the local coordinate system, kbnd, is then expressed
as

188 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 k bnd = AkA T

Theoretical Background of the Different Formulations

Three formulations are available for the modeling of heat transfer in thin structures
defined as boundaries:

• The general formulation, using the Extra Dimension tool to solve the equations
into the boundaries and through the thin structure’s thickness
• The thermally thin approximation, a lumped formulation assuming that heat
transfer mainly follows the tangential direction of the thin structure
• The thermally thick approximation, a lumped formulation assuming that heat
transfer is dominant in the direction normal to the thin structure

They all derive from the energy equation established in Equation 4-13, and recalled
here below:

∂E
ρ + ρu ⋅ ∇E + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = – ( σ:D ) + Q
∂t

where E is the variable for the internal energy.

GENERAL FORMULATION
The general formulation uses the Extra Dimension tool to solve the equations through
the thin structure’s thickness. The thin structure has its domain represented by the
product space between the lumped boundary and the additional dimension for the
thickness. Applying the split of the gradient operator given earlier at Equation 4-36,
the energy equation becomes

∂E s
ρ + ρu ⋅ ( ∇ t E s + ∇ n E s ) + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = – ( σ:D ) + Q (4-37)
∂t

The ∇t operator is the tangential derivative in the thin structure boundary, and the ∇n
operator is the derivation operator along the extra dimension which is normal to the
thin structure (see Tangential and Normal Gradients). The subscript s appended on E
(and T in the following) is here to recall that this variable lives in the product space of
the thin structure.

Equation 4-37 comes along with Fourier’s law of conduction:

q = –k ( ∇t Ts + ∇n Ts ) (4-38)

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 189

 and constraints on the temperature at the extremities of the extra dimension:

Td = ( Ts )L = 0 Tu = ( Ts )L = d (4-39)
s

Here, ds is the length of the extra dimension, or equivalently the thickness of the thin
structure, and Tu and Td are the temperature at the upside and the downside of the
thin structure.

THERMALLY THIN APPROXIMATION

This formulation applies to a thin structure where heat transfer mainly follows the
tangential direction. The gradient operator is then simplified to

∇T = ∇ t T

This assumption is often valid for thin structures that are good thermal conductors
compared to the adjacent domains, and/or with fast convection along the tangential
direction.

With these assumptions, Equation 4-13 becomes:

∂E
ds ρ + d s ρu ⋅ ∇ t E + ∇ t ⋅ ( q s + q r ) = – d s ( σ:D ) + d s Q + q 0 (4-40)
∂t

q s = – d s k∇ t T (4-41)

where ds is the layer thickness (SI unit: m). The heat source Q is a density distributed
in the layer while q0 is the received out-of-plane heat flux.

In 2D, Equation 4-40 and Equation 4-41 have an additional factor, dz,
to account for the out-of-plane thickness.

When Equation 4-40 is solved in a boundary adjacent to a domain modeling heat

transfer, the two entities exchange a certain amount of heat flux according to:

q0 = n ⋅ q

In this coupling relation, the outgoing heat flux n ⋅ q leaves the domain and is received
in the source term q0 by the adjacent thin layer modeled as a boundary. From the point
of view of the domain, and neglecting thermoelastic effects, the following heat source
is received from the thin structure:

190 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 ∂E
–n ⋅ q = ds Qs – ds ρ – ( d s ρu ⋅ ∇ t E ) – ∇ t ⋅ ( q s + q r ) (4-42)
∂t

Equations for all supported types of medium are presented in the next sections, Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Thin Rod.

THERMALLY THICK APPROXIMATION

This formulation applies to a thin structure where heat transfer mainly follows the
normal direction. The gradient operator is then simplified to

∇T = ∇ n T

This assumption is often valid for thin structures that are thermally resistive compared
to the adjacent domains.

With these assumptions, Equation 4-13 becomes:

∂E
ds ρ + d s ρu ⋅ ∇ n E + ∇ n ⋅ ( q s + q r ) = – d s ( σ:D ) + d s Q + q 0 (4-43)
∂t

q s = – d s k∇ n T (4-44)

where ds is the layer thickness (SI unit: m). The heat source Q is a density distributed
in the layer while q0 is the received out-of-plane heat flux.

In 2D, Equation 4-43 and Equation 4-44 have an additional factor, dz,
to account for the out-of-plane thickness.

When Equation 4-43 is solved in a boundary adjacent to a domain modeling heat

transfer, the two entities exchange a certain amount of heat flux according to:

q0 = n ⋅ q

In this coupling relation, the outgoing heat flux n ⋅ q leaves the domain and is received
in the source term q0 by the adjacent thin layer modeled as a boundary. From the point
of view of the domain, and neglecting thermoelastic effects, the following heat source
is received from the thin structure:

∂E
–n ⋅ q = ds Qs – ds ρ – ( d s ρu ⋅ ∇ n E ) – ∇ n ⋅ ( q s + q r ) (4-45)
∂t

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 191

 To evaluate the normal gradient operation, ∇n, temperatures Tu and Td are
introduced for the upside and downside of the thin structure boundary. They are
defined from the heat flux across the thin resistive structure. At the middle of the
thickness, the temperature, T1 ⁄ 2, is approximated by (1 ⁄ 2)(Tu + Td). The term
∇n ⋅ (−dsk∇nT) is then given by:

T d – 2T 1 ⁄ 2 + T u
∇ n ⋅ ( – d s k∇ n T ) ≈ – k s ------------------------------------------
ds

which can be seen as the sum of two contributive sources on the upside and on the
downside of the boundary that compensate:

Tu – Td Td – Tu
– k s -------------------- – k s --------------------
ds ds

Similarly, the time-dependent term can be expressed using Tu and Td by:

∂T ∂T 1 ⁄ 2 1 ∂T u 1 ∂T d
ρC p ------- ≈ ρC p --------------- = --- ρC p ---------- + --- ρC p ----------
∂t ∂t 2 ∂t 2 ∂t

leading to:

ds Q d s ∂T d Tu – Td
– n d ⋅ q d = ----------- – ρC p  ------ ---------- + u d ⋅ n d T d –  – k s -------------------- – ( q r, d ⋅ n d ) (4-46)
2  2 ∂t   ds 

ds Q d s ∂T u Td – Tu
– n u ⋅ q u = ----------- – ρC p  ------ ---------- + u u ⋅ n u T u –  – k s -------------------- – ( q r, u ⋅ n u ) (4-47)
2 2 ∂t ds

Equations for all supported types of medium are presented in the next sections, Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Thin Rod.

UPSIDE, DOWNSIDE, AND EXTERIOR TEMPERATURES

This formulation is provided by the Thermally thick approximation option of the Thin
Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells interface) feature.

192 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Figure 4-4 shows how Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface) splits the temperature into Tu and Td on interior boundaries:

Downside domain Upside domain

of the boundary of the boundary

Td Tu
Thin Layer boundary

Figure 4-4: Upside and downside temperatures at a thin layer applied on an interior
boundary. The thin layer is represented by the gray domain.

On exterior boundaries, it introduces a new degree of freedom represented by the

variable TextFace. Depending on whether the heat domain is on the upside or the
downside of the boundary, TextFace, is equal to Tu or Td and the same thing goes for
the dependent variable T. An example is illustrated in the figure below:

Downside domain
of the boundary

T = Td
Tu = TextFace

Thin Layer boundary

Figure 4-5: Upside and downside temperatures at a thin layer applied on an exterior
boundary.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 193

 FORMULATIONS AVAILABLE WITHIN THE FEATURES
Table 4-3 summarizes the formulations available within the thin structure features of
the Heat Transfer (ht) and Heat Transfer in Shells (htlsh) interfaces.
TABLE 4-3: FORMULATIONS AVAILABLE WITH THE THIN STRUCTURES FEATURES

FEATURE GENERAL THERMALLY THIN THERMALLY THICK

APPROXIMATION APPROXIMATION

Thin layer (ht) Yes Yes Yes

Solid (htlsh) Yes Yes No
Thin film (ht) Yes Yes No
Fluid (htlsh) Yes Yes No
Fracture (ht) Yes Yes No
Porous Medium (htlsh) Yes Yes No

Thin Layer
Thin layers of solid materials can be considered as boundaries when their thickness is
significantly smaller than the typical lengths of the adjacent domains.

GENERAL FORMULATION
With this formulation, multiple sandwiched layers with different material properties
and thicknesses can be modeled. An additional 1D segmented line represents the
multiple layers in the thin structure. In this extra dimension, the governing equation
is derived from Equation 4-37 to give:

∂T s
ρ si C p, si --------- + ∇ t ⋅ q si = Q si (4-48)
∂t

q si = – k si ( ∇tT s + ∇nT s ) (4-49)

Td = ( Ts )L = 0

Tu = ( Ts )L = d
s

where Ts is an auxiliary dependent variable defined on the product space. The

remaining quantities are recalled below:

• ρsi is the density of layer i (SI unit: kg/m3)

• Cp, si is the heat capacity of layer i (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• ksi is the thermal conductivity of layer i (SI unit: W/(m·K))

194 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• Qsi is the heat source applied to layer i (SI unit: W/m3)
• ds is the shell thickness (SI unit: m)

The constraint T = Ts is specified on each side of the extra dimension to connect T to

Ts.

See Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface) with Layer type set as General or more information about
the boundary feature solving Equation 4-48 and Equation 4-49.

THERMALLY THIN APPROXIMATION

The Heat Transfer Module supports heat transfer in thermally thin structures in 3D,
2D, and 2D axisymmetry. The material in the thin structure might be a good thermal
conductor for this approximation to be valid. For example, in a printed circuit with
copper traces, where the traces are often good thermal conductors compared to the
board’s substrate material.

The thermally thin approximation is derived from Equation 4-40 to Equation 4-42.
Inside the thin layer, the heat equation becomes:

∂T
d s ρC p, s + ∇t ⋅ qs = ds Qs + q0 (4-50)
∂t

q s = – d s k ∇tT (4-51)

where ds is the layer thickness (SI unit: m). The heat source Qs is a density distributed
in the layer while q0 is the received out-of-plane heat flux.

In 2D, Equation 4-50 and Equation 4-51 have an additional factor, dz,
to account for the out-of-plane thickness.

From the point of view of the domain, the following heat source, derived from
Equation 4-42, is received from the layer:

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 195

 ∂T
– n ⋅ q = d s Q s – d s ρC p, s ------- – ∇ t ⋅ q s (4-52)
∂t

See Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface) with Layer type set as Thermally thin approximation for
more information about the boundary feature solving Equation 4-52. See
The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface for more information about the
physics interface solving Equation 4-50.

• Heat Transfer in a Surface-Mount Package for a Silicon Chip:

Application Library path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/surface
_mount_package
• Silica Glass Block Coated with a Copper Layer: Application Library
path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/copper_layer

THERMALLY THICK APPROXIMATION

When a thin layer is formed of one or more thermally resistive materials, it can be
defined through its thermal resistance:

ds
R s = ------
ks

The heat flux across the thermally thick structure is derived from Equation 4-45 and
gives

1 ∂T d Tu – Td 1
– n d ⋅ q d = – --- d s ρ s C p, s ---------- – k s -------------------- + --- d s Q s (4-53)
2 ∂t ds 2

1 ∂T u Td – Tu 1
– n u ⋅ q u = – --- d s ρ s C p, s ---------- – k s -------------------- + --- d s Q s (4-54)
2 ∂t ds 2

where the u and d subscripts refer to the upside and downside of the layer, respectively.

When the material has a multilayer structure, ks and ds in the expressions above are
replaced by dtot and ktot, which are defined according to Equation 4-55 and
Equation 4-56:

196 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 n

d tot =  dsj (4-55)

j=1

d tot
k tot = -----------------
n
- (4-56)
d sj
 -------
k sj
j=1

where n is the number of layers.

See Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in
Shells interface) with Layer type set as Thermally thick approximation for
more information about the boundary feature solving Equation 4-53 and
Equation 4-54.

Thin Film
Thin films of fluid can be considered as boundaries of thickness significantly smaller
than the typical lengths of the overall model.

GENERAL FORMULATION
With this formulation, heat transfer is modeled in the whole film, including its
thickness. An additional 1D segmented line represents the thickness in the thin film.
In this extra dimension, the governing equation is derived from Equation 4-37 to give:

∂T s
ρC p --------- + ρC p u ⋅ ( ∇tT s + ∇nT s ) + ∇ t ⋅ q f = Q f (4-57)
∂t

q f = – k ( ∇t T s + ∇n T s ) (4-58)

Td = ( Ts )L = 0

Tu = ( Ts )L = d
f

where Ts is an auxiliary dependent variable defined on the product space. The

remaining quantities are recalled below:

• ρ is the density (SI unit: kg/m3)

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 197

 • Cp is the heat capacity (SI unit: J/(kg·K))
• k is the thermal conductivity (SI unit: W/(m·K))
• Qf is the heat source applied to the film (SI unit: W/m3)
• df is the film thickness (SI unit: m)

The constraint T = Ts is specified on each side of the extra dimension to connect T to

Ts.

See Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface) with Thin film model set as General for more information about
the boundary feature solving Equation 4-57 and Equation 4-58.

THERMALLY THIN APPROXIMATION

The thermally thin approximation is derived from Equation 4-40 to Equation 4-42.
Inside the thin layer, the heat equation becomes:

∂T
d f ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ t T + ∇ t ⋅ q f = d f Q f + q 0 (4-59)
 ∂t 

q f = – d f k∇ t T (4-60)

where df is the film thickness (SI unit: m). The heat source Qf is a density distributed
in the layer while q0 is the received out-of-plane heat flux.

In 2D, Equation 4-50 and Equation 4-51 have an additional factor, dz,
to account for the out-of-plane thickness.

From the point of view of the domain, the following heat source, derived from
Equation 4-42, is received from the layer:

∂T
– n ⋅ q = d f Q f – d f ρC p ------- – d f ρC p u ⋅ ∇ t T – ∇ t ⋅ q f (4-61)
∂t

See Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface) with Thin film model set as Thermally thin approximation for
more information about the boundary feature solving Equation 4-59. See
The Heat Transfer in Films Interface for more information about the
physics interface solving Equation 4-61.

198 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Fracture
When fractures occur in porous media, fluid flow tends to move faster than in the bulk
medium. The transport of heat occurs faster in the fractures that in the surrounding
medium, so in this sense, heat transfer in fractures filled with fluids is more similar to
a highly conductive layer than to a thin thermally resistive layer.

The mass transport in fractures can be modeled as Darcy’s law in a thin sheet of porous
medium:

κ
u = --- ∇ t p
μ

where u is the tangential Darcy’s velocity (SI unit: m/s), κ is the fracture permeability
(SI unit: m2), μ the fluid’s dynamic viscosity (SI unit: Pa⋅s), and ∇tp the tangential
gradient of the fluid’s pressure.

Typically, Darcy’s Law with tangential derivatives is solved to compute mass transport,
so in addition to the fluid properties, the fracture should define its own permeability
(or hydraulic conductivity in case the fluid is water), porosity, and fracture thickness.

For heat transfer in fractures, the fracture also needs to define the density of the porous
sheet, heat capacity, and thermal conductivity. The effective thermal conductivity of
the fracture must be adjusted to the fracture porosity and thermal conductivity of the
fluid. In rocks and geological formations, the fracture might also contain highly
conductive material, different than the bulk porous matrix.

The equation to solve for computing heat transfer in fractures is derived from
Equation 4-40 to Equation 4-42 and using the procedure detailed in Theory for Heat
Transfer in Porous Media to apply the mixture rule on solid and fluid internal energies.
The resulting equations are:

∂T
d fr ( ρC p ) eff + d fr ρC p u ⋅ ∇ t T + ∇ t ⋅ q fr = d fr Q + q 0 (4-62)
∂t

q fr = – d fr k eff ∇ t T (4-63)

Here (ρCp)eff is the effective heat capacity at constant pressure of the fracture-fluid
volume, ρ is the fluid’s density, Cp is the fluid’s heat capacity at constant pressure, qfr
is the conductive heat flux in the fracture-fluid volume, keff is the effective thermal
conductivity of the fluid-fracture mixture, and Q is a possible heat source.

THEORY FOR HEAT TRANSFER IN THIN STRUCTURES | 199

 From the point of view of the domain, the following heat source, derived from
Equation 4-42, is received from the fracture:

∂T
– n ⋅ q = d fr Q 0 – d fr ( ρC p ) eff – d fr ρC p u ⋅ ∇ t T – ∇ t ⋅ q fr (4-64)
∂t

See Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat

Transfer in Shells interface) for more information about the boundary
feature solving Equation 4-64. See The Heat Transfer in Fractures
Interface for more information about the physics interface solving
Equation 4-62.

Thin Rod
The Thin Rod feature is similar to Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid
(Heat Transfer in Shells interface) with Layer type set as Thermally thin approximation.
It provides a lumped heat transfer model to model thermally thin rods as edges.

The edge condition reads:

∂T
S ( R ) Q ds = Al Ql – Al ρl Cp, l + ∂ t – ∇t ⋅ ql (4-65)

ql = – Al kl ∇ t T (4-66)

with

2
A l = πr l

See Thin Rod for node information.

200 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Theory for Surface-to-Surface
Radiation
In addition to conduction and convection, the third mechanism for heat transfer is
radiation. Consider an environment with fully transparent or fully opaque objects.
Thermal radiation denotes the stream of electromagnetic waves emitted from a body
at a certain temperature.

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface theory is described in this section:

• Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Opaque Surfaces

• Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Semi-Transparent Surfaces
• Wavelength Dependence of Surface Emissivity and Absorptivity
• The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Gray Surfaces
• The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Spectral Surfaces
• View Factor Evaluation

Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Opaque Surfaces

In Figure 4-6, consider a point P located on a surface that has an emissivity ε, diffuse
reflectivity ρd, specular reflectivity ρs, absorptivity α, refractive index n, and
temperature T. The body is assumed opaque, which means that no radiation is
transmitted through the body. This is true for most solid bodies.

G ρsG J = ρdG + εn2σT

εn2σT4

ρdG

P P

Figure 4-6: Incoming irradiation (left), outgoing radiosity (right).

The total incoming radiative flux at P is called irradiation and denoted G. The total
outgoing radiative flux at P is called radiosity and denoted J. This radiosity is the sum
of diffusively reflected and emitted radiation:

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 201

 J = ρ d G + εe b ( T ) (4-67)

According to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, eb(T) is the power radiated across all
wavelengths and depends on the forth power of the temperature:

e b ( T ) = n 2 σT 4

The net inward radiative heat flux, q, is then given by the difference between the
irradiation and the radiosity:

q = ( 1 – ρ s )G – J (4-68)

Using Equation 4-67 and Equation 4-68, J can be eliminated and a general expression
is obtained for the net inward heat flux into the opaque body based on G and T.

q = ( 1 – ( ρ d + ρ s ) )G – εe b ( T ) (4-69)

Most opaque bodies also behave as ideal gray bodies, meaning that the absorptivity and
emissivity are equal, and the reflectivity ρd+ρs is therefore obtained from the following
relation:

α = ε = 1 – ( ρd + ρs ) (4-70)

Thus, for ideal gray bodies, q is given by:

q = ε ( G – eb ( T ) ) (4-71)

This is the expression used for the radiative boundary condition.

Deriving the Radiative Heat Flux for Semi-Transparent Surfaces

In Figure 4-6, consider a point P located on a semi-transparent surface that has an
emissivity εu, diffuse reflectivity ρd,u, specular reflectivity ρs,u, absorptivity αu,
refractive index nu, and temperature Tu on the upside, and an emissivity εd, diffuse
reflectivity ρd,d, specular reflectivity ρs,d, absorptivity αd, refractive index nd, and

202 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

temperature Td on the downside. As the surface is assumed semi-transparent, some
radiation is transmitted through the body.

Gu τdGd Ju = ρd,uGu + εunu2σT

ρs,uGu

εunu2σT4

ρd,uGu

P P

Gd

Figure 4-7: Upside and downside incoming irradiation (left), upside outgoing radiosity
(right). The downside outgoing radiosity is defined in a similar way.

The total incoming radiative flux at P is called irradiation, and is denoted Gu on the
upside and Gd on the downside. The total outgoing radiative flux at P is called
radiosity and denoted Ju on the upside and Jd on the downside. This radiosity is the
sum of diffusively reflected radiation, emitted radiation and transmitted radiation
coming from the other side of the semi-transparent layer:

J u = ρ d, u G u + ε u e b, u ( T u ) (4-72)

J d = ρ d, d G d + ε d e b, d ( T d ) (4-73)

The net inward radiative heat fluxes on the upside and downside, qu and qd, are then
given by the difference between the irradiation and the radiosity:

q u = ( 1 – ρ s, u – τ u )G u – J u (4-74)

q d = ( 1 – ρ s, d – τ d )G d – J d (4-75)

Bodies are considered to behave as ideal gray bodies, meaning that the absorptivity and
emissivity are equal, and the reflectivity ρs is therefore obtained from the following
relation:

ε u + ρ d , u = 1 – ρ s, u – τ u (4-76)

ε d + ρ d , d = 1 – ρ s, d – τ d (4-77)

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 203

 Using Equation 4-72 to Equation 4-77, Ju and Jd can be eliminated and a general
expression is obtained for the net inward heat fluxes into the semi-transparent body
based on Gu, Gd, Tu and Td:

q u = ε u ( G u – e b, u ( T u ) ) (4-78)

q d = ε d ( G d – e b, d ( T d ) ) (4-79)

Thus, for ideal gray bodies, q is given by:

q = ε u ( G u – e b, u ( T u ) ) + ε d ( G d – e b, d ( T d ) ) (4-80)

This is the expression used for the radiative boundary condition.

Incident rays which angle of incidence (measured between the ray and the normal to
the surface) is higher than the critical angle are not transmitted, regardless the
transmittance of the surface. They contribute to total reflection instead. Hence the
directional transmissivity coefficient can be defined as


 τ if θ ≤ θ c
τ(θ) = 
 0 if θ > θ c


where θc is the critical angle. Using the following relation

ρs ( θ ) + τ ( θ ) = 1 – ( ε + ρd )

we can establish


 ρ s if θ ≤ θ c
ρs ( θ ) = 
 ρ s + τ if θ > θ c


Wavelength Dependence of Surface Emissivity and Absorptivity

The surface properties for radiation, the emissivity, and absorptivity can be dependent
on the angle of emission or absorption, the surface temperature, or the radiation
wavelength. The emissivity and absorptivity are defined in Ref. 17.

204 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface in the Heat Transfer module implements
the radiosity method that enables arbitrary temperature dependence and assumes that
the emissivity and absorptivity are independent of the angle of emission and
absorption. It is also possible to account for wavelength dependence on the surface
emissivity and absorptivity.

PLANCK SPECTRAL DISTRIBUTION

The Planck’s distribution of emissive power for a blackbody in vacuum is given as a
function of surface temperature and wavelength.

The blackbody hemispherical emissive power (SI unit: W/(m3·sr)), is denoted

eb, λ(λ, T), and defined as (1-37 in Ref. 17):

2πn 2 C 1
e b, λ ( λ, T ) = ------------------------------ (4-81)
C2
 ------- 
λ  e – 1
5  λT

 

where:

• the two constants C1 (SI unit: W·m2/sr) and C2 (SI unit: m·K) are given by

2 hc 0
C 1 = hc 0 C 2 = ---------
kB

• h is the Planck constant (SI unit: J·s)

• kB is the Boltzmann constant (SI unit: J/K)
• c0 is the speed of the light in vacuum (SI unit: m/s)
• λ is the wavelength in vacuum (SI unit: m)
• n is the refractive index of the media (SI unit: 1), equal to 1 in vacuum

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 205

 Figure 4-8 and Figure 4-9 show the hemispherical spectral emissive power for a
blackbody at 5780 K (the Sun’s blackbody temperature) and for a blackbody at 300 K.
The dotted vertical lines delimit the visible spectrum (from 0.4 µm to 0.7 µm).

Figure 4-8: Planck distribution of a blackbody at 5780 K.

Figure 4-9: Planck distribution of a blackbody at 300 K.

The integral of eb, λ(λ, T) over a spectral band represents the power radiated on the
spectral band and is defined by

λ2 ∞
λ eb, λ ( λ, T ) dλ
1
= F λ1 T → λ2 T 0 eb, λ ( λ, T ) dλ
where F λ1 T → λ 2 T is the fractional blackbody emissive power,

206 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 λ2
λ eb, λ ( λ, T ) dλ
F λ 1 T → λ2 T = ----------------------------------------
∞
1
-

0 eb, λ ( λ, T ) dλ
Recall the Stefan-Boltzmann law that computes the power radiated across all
wavelengths:

∞
0 eb, λ ( λ, T ) dλ = e b ( T ) = n 2 σT 4

where n is the refractive index, and σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant equal to

5.67 ⋅ 10-8 W/(m2·K4). The power radiated in the spectral band [λ1, λ2] becomes:

λ2
 λ e b , λ ( λ , T ) dλ = F λ T → λ T e b ( T )
1
1 2

The function eb(T) is available as a predefined function via ht.feb(T) in

the Heat Transfer interfaces.

Notice that:

F λ 1 T → λ2 T = F 0 → λ2 T – F 0 → λ 1 T and F 0 → ∞ = 1

The figure below shows the value of F 0 → λT for different values of λT.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 207

 DIFFUSE-GRAY SURFACES
Diffuse-gray surfaces correspond to the hypothesis that surface properties are
independent of the radiation wavelength and angle between the surface normal and
the radiation direction.

The assumption that the surface emissivity is independent of the radiation wavelength
is often valid when most of the radiative power is concentrated on a relatively narrow
spectral band. This is likely the case when the radiation is emitted by a surface at
temperatures in limited range.

This setting is rarely applicable if there is solar radiation.

SOLAR AND AMBIENT SPECTRAL BANDS

When solar radiation is part of the model, it is possible to enhance a diffuse-gray
surface model by considering two spectral bands: one for short wavelengths and one
for large wavelengths.

It is interesting to notice that about 97% of the radiated power from a blackbody at
5800 K is at wavelengths of 2.5 µm or shorter, and 97% of the radiated power from a
blackbody at 700 K is at wavelengths of 2.5 µm or longer (see Figure 4-10).

Figure 4-10: Normalized Planck distribution of blackbodies at 700 K and 5800 K.

Many problems have a solar load, but the peak temperatures are below 700 K.

208 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

In such cases, it is appropriate to use a two-band approach with

• A solar band for wavelengths shorter than 2.5 µm

• An ambient band for wavelengths above 2.5 µm

For each surface, properties are then described in terms of a solar absorptivity and an
emissivity.

Solar irradiation,
λ < 2.5 µm

Reradiation to
surroundings,

λ > 2.5 µm

Figure 4-11: Absorption of solar radiation and emission to the surroundings.

By splitting the bands at the default of 2.5 μm, the fraction of absorbed solar radiation
on each surface is defined primarily by the solar absorptivity.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 209

 The reradiation at longer wavelengths (objects below ~700 K) and the reabsorption of
this radiation is defined primarily via the emissivity

Emissivity

Wavelength

Figure 4-12: Solar and ambient spectral band approximation of the surface emissivity by
a constant per band emissivity.

GENERAL DIFFUSE-SPECTRAL SURFACES

Diffuse-spectral surfaces correspond to the hypothesis that surface properties are
wavelength dependent but independent of the angle between the surface normal and
the radiation direction.

The heat transfer module enables to define constant surface properties per spectral
bands and to adjust spectral intervals endpoints.

Emissivity

λ1 λ2 λ3 Wavelength

The multiple spectral bands approach is used in cases when the surface emissivity varies
significantly over the bands of interest.

The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Gray Surfaces

The heat transfer by radiation is combined with convective and conductive heat
transfer through a source term added to the heat equation along with the other
contributions from the heat flux and boundary heat source boundary conditions.
Recalling Equation 4-68, this source account for the difference between incident
radiation, or irradiation, G, and radiation leaving the surface, or radiosity, J:

210 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 q = ( 1 – ρ s )G – J

The radiosity, J, is given in Equation 4-67. It is the sum of reflected and emitted
radiation. For diffuse-gray surfaces, J is defined by:

J = ρ d G + εe b ( T )

Here

• G is the incoming radiative heat flux, or irradiation (SI unit: W/m2)

• ε is the surface emissivity (SI unit: 1), a dimensionless number in the range 0 ≤ ε ≤ 1.
The diffuse-gray surface hypothesis corresponds to surfaces where ε is independent
of the radiation wavelength.
• eb(T) is the blackbody hemispherical total emissive power (SI unit: W/m2).
• T is the surface temperature (SI unit: K).

The irradiation, G, at a given point is split into three contributions according to:

G = G m + G ext + G amb (4-82)

where:

• Gm is the mutual irradiation, coming from other boundaries in the model

(SI unit: W/m2).
• Gext is the irradiation from external radiation sources (SI unit: W/m2). It is the sum
of the products, for each external source, of the external heat sources view factor
Fext by the corresponding source radiosity:

G ext =  Fext Ps +  Fext q0, s

The first term of the sum gathers radiation sources located on a point. The second
term stands for directional radiative sources.
• Gamb is the ambient irradiation (SI unit: W/m2), defined as:
G amb = F amb e b ( T amb )

• Famb is an ambient view factor; its value is equal to the fraction of the field of view
that is not covered by other boundaries. Therefore, by definition, 0 ≤ Famb ≤ 1 at
all points.
• Tamb is the assumed far-away temperature (SI unit: K) in the directions included in
Famb.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 211

 The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface includes the following radiation types:

• Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is the default radiation

type. It requires accurate evaluation of the mutual irradiation, Gm. The incident
radiation at one point on the boundary is a function of the radiosity, J, at every
other point in view. The radiosity, in turn, is a function of Gm, which leads to an
implicit radiation balance:
J = ρ d ( G m ( J ) + G ext + G amb ) + εe b ( T ) (4-83)

• Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is a variant of the Diffuse

Surface radiation type with ε = 0. Reradiation surfaces are common as an
approximation of a surface that is well insulated on one side and for which
convection effects can be neglected on the opposite (radiating) side (see Ref. 18).
It resembles a mirror that absorbs all irradiation and then radiates it back in all
directions.
• Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) makes it possible to
specify graybody radiation. The radiosity expression is then εeb(T). A user-defined
surface radiosity expression can also be defined.

• Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is available when the

surface-to-surface radiation method is Ray shooting. It accounts for specular
reflection. The conservation equation reads

ε + ρd + ρs = 1 ,

and the radiosity reads as in Equation 4-83.

• Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is available when

the surface-to-surface radiation method is Ray shooting. It accounts for reflection,
transmission and the conservation equation reads

ε + ρd + ρs + τ = 1 ,

and the radiosities read

J u = ( ρ d,u ( G m,u ( J u ) + G ext,u + G amb,u ) + ε u e b ( T ) )

(4-84)
+ τ d ( G m,d ( J d ) + G ext,d + G amb,d )

J d = ( ρ d,d ( G m,d ( J d ) + G ext,d + G amb,d ) + ε d e b ( T ) )

(4-85)
+ τ d ( G m,u ( J u ) + G ext,u + G amb,u )

212 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface handles the radiosity J as a shape function
unless J is prescribed.

Whereas diffuse and specular reflectivities are handled by the different

features of the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface, only diffuse
emissivity is considered.

The Radiosity Method for Diffuse-Spectral Surfaces

For a general diffuse-spectral surface:

J =  ( ρd ( λ, T )G ( λ ) + ε ( λ, T )eb, λ ( λ, T ) ) dλ
0

where

• ε(λ, T) and ρd(λ, T) are is the hemispherical spectral surface emissivity and diffuse
reflectivity, dimensionless quantities in the range [0,1]. Diffuse-spectral surface
corresponds to a surface properties are dependent on the radiation wavelength and
surface temperature.
• T is the surface temperature (SI unit: K).
• eb, λ(λ, T) is the blackbody hemispherical emissive power (SI unit: W/(m3·sr))
defined in Equation 4-81.

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface assumes that the surface emissivity and
opacity properties are constant per spectral band. It defines N spectral bands (N = 2
when solar and ambient radiation model is used),

 B i = [λ i – 1,λ i] for 1 ≤ i ≤ N

 λ0 = 0

 λN = ∞

so that the radiosity has a custom definition in each interval:

J =  Ji
i=1
J i = ρ d, i G i + ε i e b ( T )

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 213

 The surface properties can then be defined per spectral band:

• Surface emissivity on Bi: εi(T) = ε(λ, T) for λ in the interval Bi

• Surface diffuse reflectivity on Bi: ρd,i(T) = ρd(λ, T) for λ in the interval Bi
• Ambient irradiation on Bi, assuming that the ambient fractional emissive power
corresponds to the one of a blackbody at temperature Tamb:
λi
G amb, i = λ = λ i–1
G amb ( λ ) dλ = F λi – 1 T → λ i T F amb e b ( T amb )

• External radiation sources on Bi with q0, s, i and Ps, i the external radiation source
heat flux and heat rate, respectively, over Bi:
λi
G ext, i = λ = λ i–1
G ext ( λ ) dλ = F ext, i ( i s )q 0, s, i

or
λi
G ext, i = λ = λ i–1
G ext ( λ ) dλ = F ext, i ( i s )P s, i

When the external source fractional emissive power corresponds to the one of a
blackbody at Text, external radiation sources on Bi can be defined from the external
radiation source heat flux, q0, s, and heat rate, Ps, over all wavelengths:
G ext, i = F ext, i F λ i – 1 T → λ i T ( i s )q 0, s

or
G ext, i = F ext, i F λ i – 1 T → λi T ( i s )P s

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface includes the following radiation types:

• Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is the default radiation

type. The incident radiation over the Bi spectral band at one point of the boundary
is a function of the radiosity, Ji (SI unit: W/m2), at every other point in view. The
radiosity, in turn, is a function of Gm, i, which leads to an implicit radiation balance:
J i = ρ d, i ( G m, i ( J i ) + G ext, i + G amb, i ) + ε i e b ( T ) (4-86)

• Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is a variant of the Diffuse

Surface radiation type with εi = 0. Reradiation surfaces are common as an
approximation of a surface that is well insulated on one side and for which
convection effects can be neglected on the opposite (radiating) side (see Ref. 18).

214 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 It resembles a mirror that absorbs all irradiation and then radiates it back in all
directions.
• Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) makes it possible to
specify the surface radiation for each spectral band. Using the graybody radiation
definition, the radiosity is then F λ1 T → λ2 T e b ( T ) . A user-defined surface radiosity
expression can also be defined.

• Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is available with Ray

shooting as Surface-to-surface radiation method. It accounts for specular reflection.
The conservation equation reads

ε i + ρ d , i + ρ s, i = 1

and the radiosity reads as in Equation 4-86.

• Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) is available with

Ray shooting as Surface-to-surface radiation method. It accounts for reflection,
transmission and the conservation equation reads

ε i + ρ d , i + ρ s, i + τ i = 1

and the radiosities read

J u, i = ρ d, u, i ( G mu, i ( J u, i ) + G ext, u, i + G amb, u, i ) + ε u, i e b ( T )

(4-87)
+ τ d, i ( G md, i ( J d, i ) + G ext, d, i + G amb, d, i )

J d, i = ρ d, u, i ( G md, i ( J d, i ) + G ext, d, i + G amb, d, i ) + ε d, i e b ( T )

(4-88)
+ τ u, i ( G mu, i ( J u, i ) + G ext, u, i + G amb, u, i )

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface handles the radiosity Ji as a shape function

unless Ji is prescribed.

Whereas diffuse and specular reflectivities are handled by the different

features of the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface, only diffuse
emissivity is considered.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 215

 View Factor Evaluation
The strategy for evaluating view factors is central to any radiation simulation. Loosely
speaking, a view factor is a measure of how much influence the radiosity at a given part
of the boundary has on the irradiation at some other part.

The quantities Gm and Famb in Equation 4-83 are not strictly view factors in the
traditional sense. Instead, Famb is the view factor of the ambient portion of the field
of view, which is considered to be a single boundary with constant radiosity

J amb = e b ( T amb )

On the other hand, Gm is the integral over all visible points of a differential view factor,
multiplied by the radiosity of the corresponding source point. In the discrete model,
think of it as the product of a view factor matrix and a radiosity vector. This is, however,
not necessarily the way the calculation is performed.

Consider a point P on a surface as in Figure 4-13. It can be seen by points on other

surfaces such as S′ in the figure, as well as the ambient surrounding, Samb. Assume
that the points on S′ have a local radiosity, J′, while the ambient surrounding has a
constant temperature, Tamb.

Samb

S′

J′
P′

r
n′ n

Jamb
Samb

Figure 4-13: Example geometry for surface-to-surface radiation.

The mutual irradiation at point P is given by the following surface integral:

216 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 ( – n′ ⋅ r ) ( n ⋅ r )
Gm = S′ -------------------------------------
πr
4
- J′ ds

The heat flux that arrives from P′ depends on the local radiosity J′ projected onto P.
The projection is computed using the normal vectors n and n′ along with the vector
r, which points from P to P′.

The ambient view factor, Famb, is determined from the integral of the surrounding
surfaces S′, here denoted as F′:

( – n′ ⋅ r ) ( n ⋅ r )
F amb = 1 – F ′ = 1 – S′ -------------------------------------
πr
4
- ds

The two last equations plug into Equation 4-82 to yield the final equation for
irradiative flux.

The equations used so far apply to the general 3D case. 2D geometries result in simpler
integrals. For the 2D case, the resulting equations for the mutual irradiation and
ambient view factor are

( – n′ ⋅ r ⊥ ) ( n ⋅ r ⊥ )
Gm = S ′ --------------------------------------------
2r
3
- J′ ds (4-89)
⊥
⊥

( – n′ ⋅ r ⊥ ) ( n ⋅ r ⊥ )
F amb = 1 – S ' --------------------------------------------
2r
3
- ds
⊥
⊥

where the integral over S⊥′ denotes the line integral along the boundaries of the 2D
geometry.

In axisymmetric geometries or when a symmetry plane is defined, the irradiation and

ambient view factor cannot be computed directly from a closed-form expression.
Instead, a virtual geometry must be constructed, and the view factors evaluated
according to Equation 4-89. For cases with specularly reflective surfaces, specular view
factors depends also on specular reflectivities of surrounding surfaces, see Ref. 20.

A separate evaluation is performed for each unique point where Gm or Famb is

requested, typically for each quadrature point during solution. Differential view factors
are normally computed only once, the first time they are needed, and then stored in
memory until next time the model definition or the mesh is changed.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 217

 The Heat Transfer Module supports two surface-to-surface radiation methods, which
are selected in the Radiation Settings section in a Heat Transfer interface:

• Hemicube
• Discrete area integration
• Ray shooting

View factors are always calculated directly from the mesh, which is a
polygonal representation of the geometry. To improve the accuracy of the
radiative heat transfer simulation, the mesh must be refined rather than
raising the element order.

VIEW FACTOR FOR EXTERNAL RADIATION SOURCES

In 3D, the view factor for a point at finite distance is given by

cos θ
------------
2
4πr

where θ is the angle between the normal to the irradiated surface and the direction of
the source, and r is the distance from the source. For a source at infinity, the view factor
is given by cos θ.

In 2D the view factor for a point at finite distance is given by

cos θ-
-----------
2πr

and the view factor for a source at infinity is cos θ.

SOLAR POSITION
The Sun is the most common example of an external radiation source. The position of
the Sun is necessary to determine the direction of the corresponding external radiation
source. The direction of sunlight (zenith angle and the solar elevation) is automatically
computed from the latitude, longitude, time zone, date, and time using similar a
method as described in Ref. 17. The estimated solar position is accurate for a date
between year 2000 and 2199, due to an approximation used in the Julian Day calendar
calculation.

The zenith angle, θs, and azimuth angle, ϕ s , of the Sun are converted into a direction
vector is = (isx, isy, isz) in Cartesian coordinates assuming that the north, the west, and

218 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

the up directions correspond to the x, y, and z directions, respectively, in the model.
The relation between θs, ϕ s , and is is given by:

i sx = – cos ( ϕ s ) sin ( θ s )
i sy = sin ( ϕ s ) sin ( θ s )
i sz = – cos ( θ s )

RADIATION IN AXISYMMETRIC GEOMETRIES

For an axisymmetric geometry, Gm and Famb must be evaluated in a corresponding
3D geometry obtained by revolving the 2D boundaries around the axis. COMSOL
Multiphysics creates this virtual 3D geometry by revolving the 2D boundary mesh into
a 3D mesh. The resolution can be controlled in the azimuthal direction by setting the
number of azimuthal sectors, which is the same as the number of elements to a full
revolution. Try to balance this number against the mesh resolution in the rz-plane.
This number, the azimuthal sectors, is accessible from the Radiation Settings section
in physics interfaces for heat transfer.

Select between the hemicube and the direct area integration methods also in axial
symmetry. Their settings work the same way as in 3D.

While Gm and Famb are in fact evaluated in a full 3D, the number of
points where they are requested is limited to the quadrature points on the
boundary of a 2D geometry. The savings compared to a full 3D
simulation are therefore substantial despite the full 3D view factor code
being used.

THEORY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION | 219

 Theory for Radiation in Participating
Media
In this section:

• Radiation and Participating Media Interactions

• Radiative Transfer Equation
• Boundary Condition for the Radiative Transfer Equation
• Heat Transfer Equation in Participating Media
• Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM)
• Discrete Ordinates Method Implementation in 2D
• Rosseland Approximation Theory
• P1 Approximation Theory
• Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Theory
• Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory

Radiation and Participating Media Interactions

Figure 4-14: Example of interactions between participating media and radiation.

In some applications the medium is not completely transparent and the radiation rays
interact with the medium.

220 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Let I(Ω) denote the radiative intensity traveling in a given direction, Ω. Different kinds
of interactions are observed:

• Absorption: The medium absorbs a fraction of the incident radiation. The amount
of absorbed radiation is κI(Ω), where κ is the absorption coefficient.
• Emission: The medium emits radiation in all directions. The amount of emitted
radiative intensity is equal to κIb, where Ib is the blackbody radiation intensity.
• Scattering: Part of the radiation coming from a given direction is scattered in other
directions. The scattering properties of the medium are described by the scattering
phase function φ ( Ω′, Ω ) , which gives the probability that a ray coming from one
direction Ω′ is scattered into the direction Ω. The phase function φ ( Ω′, Ω ) satisfies:
1
------
4π 4π φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′ = 1

Radiative intensity in a given direction is attenuated and augmented by scattering:

- It is attenuated because a part of the incident radiation in this direction is
scattered into other directions. The amount of radiation attenuated by scattering
is σsI(Ω).
- It is augmented because a part of the radiative intensity coming from other
directions is scattered in all direction, including the direction we are looking at.
The amount of radiation augmented by scattering is obtained by integrating
scattering coming from all directions Ω′:
σ
------s
4π 4π I ( Ω′ )φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′

Radiative Transfer Equation

The balance of the radiative intensity including all contributions (propagation,
emission, absorption, and scattering) can now be formulated. The general radiative
transfer equation can be written as (see Ref. 20):

σs
Ω ⋅ ∇I ( Ω ) = κI b ( T ) – βI ( Ω ) + ------
4π 4π I ( Ω′ )φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′ (4-90)

where

• I(Ω) is the radiative intensity at a given position following the Ω direction (SI unit:
W/(m2·sr))

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 221

 • Ib(T) is the blackbody radiative intensity (SI unit: W/(m2·sr)), defined as
2 4
n r σT
I b ( T ) = ----------------- (4-91)
π

The quantity Ib(T) is available as a predefined function, ht.fIb(T), in

heat transfer interfaces.

• nr is the refractive index (SI unit: 1)

• σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (SI unit: W/(m2·K4))
• κ, β, σs are absorption, extinction, and scattering coefficients, respectively (SI unit:
1/m) and are related by:
β = κ + σs

• φ ( Ω′, Ω ) is the scattering phase function (SI unit: 1)

• T is the temperature (SI unit: K)

SCATTERING PHASE FUNCTION

The phase function, φ ( Ω′, Ω ) , gives the probability that a ray from the Ω′ direction is
scattered into the Ω direction. The phase function’s definition is material dependent
and its definition can be complicated. It is common to use approximate scattering
phase functions that are defined using the cosine of the scattering angle, μ0. The
current implementation handles:

• Isotropic phase functions:

φ ( Ω′, Ω ) = φ ( μ 0 ) = 1

• Linear anisotropic phase functions:

φ ( μ0 ) = 1 + a1 μ0

• Polynomial anisotropic up to the 12th order:

12

φ ( μ0 ) = 1 +  an Pn ( μ0 )
n=1

where Pn are the n-th order Legendre polynomials.

Legendre polynomials can be defined by the Rodriguez formula:

222 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 1 dk 2 k
P k ( x ) = -----------
k
((x – 1) )
k
2 k! d x

• Henyey-Greenstein phase function:

2
1 1–η
φ ( μ 0 ) = ---- ⋅ ------------------------------------------------
3⁄2
-
K 2
( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

where – 1 < η < 1 is the anisotropy parameter and K is defined as follows to produce
a normalized phase function:
2
1 1–η
K = ------ ⋅
4π  ------------------------------------------------
2 3⁄2
- dΩ
4π ( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

INCIDENT RADIATION
A quantity of interest is the incident radiation, denoted G, and defined by

G = 4π I ( Ω ) dΩ

Boundary Condition for the Radiative Transfer Equation

For gray walls, corresponding to opaque surfaces reflecting diffusively and emitting,
the radiative intensity I(Ω) entering participating media along the Ω direction is

1–ε
I ( Ω ) = εI b ( T ) + ----------- q r, out for all Ω such that n ⋅ Ω < 0
π

where

2 4
n r σT
I b ( T ) = -------------------- (4-92)
π

• Equation 4-91 is the blackbody radiation intensity and nr is the refractive index
• ε is the surface emissivity, which is in the range [0, 1]
• 1 − ε is the diffusive reflectivity
• n is the outward normal vector
• qr,out is the heat flux striking the wall:

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 223

 q r, out =  n ⋅ Ω > 0 I ( Ω ) ( n ⋅ Ω ) dΩ
For black walls ε = 1. Thus I(Ω) = Ib(T).

Heat Transfer Equation in Participating Media

Heat flux in gray media is defined by

qr = 4π I ( Ω )Ω dΩ
Heat flux divergence can be defined as a function of G and T (see Ref. 20):

Q r = ∇ ⋅ q r = κ ( G – 4πI b ( T ) )

In order to couple radiation in participating media, radiative heat flux is taken into
account in addition to conductive heat flux. Recalling Equation 4-16, the heat transfer
equation reads:

∂T ∂p
ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p + τ: ∇u + Q
 ∂t  ∂t 

and is implemented using following form:

∂T ∂p
ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ q = κ ( G – 4nσT 4 ) + α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p + τ: ∇u + Q
 ∂t  ∂t

Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM)

The discrete ordinates method is implemented for 3D and 2D

geometries.

Radiative intensity is defined for any direction Ω, because the angular space is
continuous. In order to handle the radiative intensity equation numerically, the angular
space is discretized.

The discrete ordinates method provides a discretization of angular space. The

quadrature sets Level Symmetric Even, Level Symmetric Hybrid and Equal Weight

224 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Odd are designed using moment-matching conditions (see Ref. 21) and yield SN
approximations with N(N + 2) directions in 3D or N(N + 2)/2 in 2D (see Ref. 20).
The quasi-uniform quadrature set yields TN approximations with 8N2 directions in 3D
or 4N2 in 2D (Ref. 42, Ref. 43). These approximations are not designed using
moment-matching conditions but allow for higher-order discretization compared with
SN approximations.

Thanks to angular space discretization, integrals over directions are replaced by

numerical quadratures of discrete directions:

4π I ( Ω ) dΩ ≈  wj Ij
j=1

Depending on the value of N, a set of n dependent variables has to be defined and

solved for I1, I2, …, In.

Each dependent variable satisfies the equation

n
σs
S i ⋅ ∇I i = κI b ( T ) – βI i + ------
4π  w j I j φ ( S j, S i )
j=1

where Si is the i-th discrete ordinate, with the following boundary condition

1–ε
I i, bnd = εI b ( T ) + ----------- q out for all S i such that n ⋅ S i < 0
π

with

q r, out =  wj Ij n ⋅ Ωj
n ⋅ Ωj > 0

Discrete Ordinates Method Implementation in 2D

For a given index i, define two indices, i+ and i−, so that

• Ω, Si+, and Si- have the same components in the xy–plane

• and Si+ and Si- have opposite components in the z direction.

Assuming that a model is invariant in the z direction, the radiative transfer equation in
two directions, Si+ and Si-, for the discrete ordinates method (DOM) reads:

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 225

 n
σs
S i + ⋅ ∇I i + = κI b ( T ) – βI i+ + ------
4π  w j I j φ ( S j, S i ) +

j=1

n
σs
S i- ⋅ ∇I i- = κI b ( T ) – βI i- + ------
4π  wj Ij φ ( Sj, Si ) -

j=1

Halving the sum of the two equations above and using I i+ = I i- = I˜i ( I i - = I i+ in
2D) yields

n
σs
S˜ i ⋅ ∇I˜i = κI b ( T ) – βI˜i + ------  wj Ij ( φ ( Sj, Si ) + φ ( Sj, Si ) )+ -
8π
j=1

which may recast

n⁄2
σs
S˜ i ⋅ ∇I˜i = κI b ( T ) – βI˜i + ------  wj Ij ( φ ( Sj , Si ) + φ ( Sj , Si ) )
+ + + + + -
8π
j=1
n⁄2
σs
+ ------
8π  wj Ij ( φ ( Sj , Si ) + φ ( Sj , Si ) )
- - - + - -

j=1

or

n⁄2
σs
S˜ i ⋅ ∇I˜i = κI b ( T ) – βI˜i + ------  wj Ij φ ( Sj , Si ) + wj Ij φ ( Sj , Si )
+ + + + - - - -
8π
j=1
n⁄2
σs
+ ------
8π  wj Ij φ ( Sj , Si ) + wj Ij φ ( Sj , Si )
+ + + - - - - +

j=1

In addition if φ ( S i, S j ) can be rewritten as a function of Si ⋅ Sj, as it is in the

COMSOL Multiphysics implementation, then

φ ( S j+, S i+ ) = φ ( S j-, S i- ) and φ ( S j-, S i+ ) = φ ( S j+, S i- )

In addition

226 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 I j- φ ( S j-, S i+ ) + I j+ φ ( S j+, S i- ) = 2I˜j φ ( S j+, S i- ) = 2I˜j φ ( S j -, S i+ )

so the above equation can be simplified:

n⁄2
σs
S˜ i ⋅ ∇I˜i = κI b ( T ) – βI˜i + ------ ˜ ˜ ˜ ˜
 w j I j φ ( S j, S i ) (4-93)
4π
j=1

with

S i, 1
S˜ i = S
i, 2
0

since the third component of ∇I˜i is zero in 2D.

Also notice that

n n⁄2 n⁄2
˜ ˜
4π I ( Ω ) dΩ ≈  wj Ij =  wj Ij + wj Ij
- - + +
=  wi Ii (4-94)
j=1 j=1 j=1

with w˜ i = 2w i .

Using results from Equation 4-93 and Equation 4-94 the DOM is formulated in 2D
using only radiative intensities, I˜i , on half of the 3D DOM directions, S˜ i , except for
the scattering term. In other expressions than the scattering term, the z component of
the radiative intensities Ii and of the discrete directions Ωi can be ignored (or set to
zero) and the weight wi, multiplied by 2.

Rosseland Approximation Theory

The Rosseland approximation is available as a radiation discretization method as part
of the Optically Thick Participating Medium subnode.

Rosseland approximation relies on the hypotheses that the participating medium is

optically thick — that is, τ >>1 — where τ is the optical thickness defined by the integral
of absorption coefficient, κ, along a typical optical path:

s
τ = 0 κ ds

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 227

 From a computational point of view this approximation has a limited impact because
it does not introduce any extra degree of freedom to the heat equation. Instead it adds
nonlinear contribution to the thermal conductivity. This is why this method is popular
for some applications where the optical thickness is large. Nevertheless, because it gives
a simple approximation of heat transfer by radiation in a participating media, it should
be carefully validated.

In this case, the radiative heat flux can be evaluated by (Ref. 20):

4π
q r, λ = – ------ ∇i b, λ
βλ

For a gray media it leads to

4σ
q r = – ---------- ∇ ( n 2 T 4 )
3β R

Assuming a constant refractive index, this can be rewritten as qr = − kR ΔT with

16n 2 σT 3
k R = ------------------------
3β R

and

16n 2 σT 3
q r = – ------------------------ ∇T
3β R

Notice that the Rosseland approximation does not account at all for the scattering in
the participating media.

P1 Approximation Theory
The P1 approximation is available as a radiation discretization method in The Radiation
in Participating Media Interface.

The P1 approximation is the simplest approximation provided by the method of

spherical harmonics method (PN-method). This approximation provides additional
accuracy compared to a Rosseland approximation even if it remains a very simple
method. The P1 method relies on the following hypotheses:

• The media is optically thick media: τ >>1, where τ is the optical thickness defined by
the integral of absorption coefficient, κ, along a typical optical path:

228 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 s
τ = 0 κ ds
• The scattering is linear isotropic.

From a computational point of view this approximation has a limited impact because
it introduces only one additional degree of freedom for G, which is a scalar quantity
and adds a heat source or sink to the temperature equation to account for radiative heat
transfer contributions. This method, however, fails to accurately represent cases where
the radiative intensity propagation dominates over its diffusivity or where the
scattering effects cannot be described by a linear isotropic phase function.

The P1 approximation accounts for the radiation transfer equation

σs
Ω ⋅ ∇I ( Ω ) = κI b ( T ) – βI ( Ω ) + ------
4π 4π I ( Ω′ )φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′
by solving following equation for G = 4π I ( Ω ) dΩ (Ref. 20):
∇ ⋅ ( D P1 ∇G ) = Q r (4-95)

where

• DP1is the P1 diffusion coefficient, defined as

1
D P1 = ----------------------------------------
3κ + σ s ( 3 – a 1 )

• a1 is the linear Legendre coefficient of the scattering phase function

• Qr is the radiative heat source:

Q r = κ ( G – 4πI b ) (4-96)

When scattering is modeled as isotropic, a1=0 and the P1 diffusion coefficient reduces
to

1
D P1 = ----------------------
3κ + 3σ s

The following boundary condition applies (Ref. 20):

n ⋅ D P1 ∇G = – q r, net

where qr, net is the net radiative heat flux at the boundary.

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 229

 RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA
For the Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface) feature
node, the equation Equation 4-95 is implemented.

In addition Qr, defined by Equation 4-96, is added as an heat source in the heat
transfer equation:

∂T ∂p
ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q r + α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p + τ: ∇u + Q
 ∂t  ∂t

OPAQUE SURFACE
The Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) boundary condition defines a boundary
opaque to radiation and defines the incident intensity on a boundary:

n ⋅ D P1 ∇G = – q r, net

The Opaque Surface feature accounts for the net radiative heat flux, qr, net, in the heat
balance.

Two cases are considered, depending on surface emissivity value:

• Gray wall: ε is a number between 0 and 1

• Black wall: ε=1

Gray Wall
The radiative heat flux at the boundary depends on the surface emissivity, ε:

ε
q r, net = -------------------- ( 4πI b, w – G )
2(2 – ε)

with

n2 σT4
I b, w = I b = -----------------
π

Black Wall
The radiative heat flux at the boundary expression simplifies to

1
n ⋅ D P1 ∇G = --- ( 4πI b, w – G )
2

with

230 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 n 2 σT 4
I b, w = I b = -----------------
π

INCIDENT INTENSITY
The Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) node defines a boundary that receives
incident radiative intensity Iext and that is transparent for outgoing intensity. On these
boundaries, the relation between G, qr, net (net radiative heat flux) and Iext (incident
radiative intensity) is

G + 2q r, net = 4 Ω ⋅ n > 0 Iext ( Ω )Ω ⋅ n dΩ

by defining

I ext = Ω ⋅ n > 0 Iext ( Ω )Ω ⋅ n dΩ

there is

1
q r, net = --- ( 4πI ext – G )
2

which defines the heat radiative heat flux and also contributes to G boundary
condition:

n ⋅ D P1 ∇G = – q r, net

Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Theory

The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface is available in 2D, 2D
axisymmetric, and 3D components to model the propagation, attenuation, and
scattering of an incident light within a semitransparent material considered to be
non-emitting.

The radiative intensity I(Ω) at a given position following the Ω direction is the solution
of the radiative transfer equation with no emission term (see Ref. 20):

σs
Ω ⋅ ∇I ( Ω ) = – βI ( Ω ) + ------
4π 4π I ( Ω′ )φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′ (4-97)

where

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 231

 • κ, β, σs are absorption, extinction, and scattering coefficients, respectively (SI unit:
1/m) and are related by:
β = κ + σs

• φ ( Ω′, Ω ) is the scattering phase function (SI unit: 1)

See Radiative Transfer Equation for details about the phase function, φ ( Ω′, Ω ) .

The incident radiation, denoted G, is defined by

G = 4π I ( Ω ) dΩ
If the Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM) is used for the approximation of
Equation 4-97, G is computed as

G=  ωi Ii
i=1

and

N
σs
S i ⋅ ∇I i = κI b ( T ) – βI i + ------
4π  ω j I j φ ( S j, S i )
j=1

where

• Si is the i-th discrete ordinate.

• Ii is the i-th component of the radiative intensity.
• ωj is the i-th quadrature weight.
If the P1 Approximation Theory is used instead, G is the solution of the following
equation

∇ ⋅ ( D P1 ∇G ) – κ G = 0 (4-98)

with the following boundary condition

1
n ⋅ ( – D P1 ∇G ) = – --- G
2

where DP1 is the P1 diffusion coefficient.

232 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory
The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface is available in 2D, 2D axisymmetric,
and 3D components to model the propagation and the attenuation of an incident light
within a semitransparent material. The radiative intensity of the beam is described by
the Beer-Lambert Law, which corresponds to the radiative transport equation (RTE)
under the following hypothesis:

• The radiative beam in the absorbing medium is collimated and each beam
propagates always in the same direction.
• The light experiences no refraction, reflection, or scattering within the material
itself.
• There is no significant emission of the material in the wavelength range of the
incident light. This applies well to laser beams, whose wavelength is in general much
shorter than the one of the radiation emitted by the medium.
In these conditions, the radiative intensity Ii (SI unit: W/m2) of the ith beam through
the material decreases as the beam propagates and is absorbed by the medium. This is
described by the Beer-Lambert Law equation:

ei
--------- ⋅ ∇I i = – κI i
ei

where ei is the orientation of the ith beam, and κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit:
m–1) of the medium.

The radiative heat source Qr (SI unit: W/m3), corresponding to the energy deposited
by the radiative beam, is defined by:

Qr =
 κIi
i

THEORY FOR RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA | 233

 Theory for Moisture Transport
Theory for moisture transport in building materials
The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface solves for the following
equation derived from Ref. 15:

∂φ
ξ ------ + ∇ ⋅ ( – ξ D w ∇φ – δ p ∇ ( φp sat ( T ) ) ) = G (4-99)
∂t

This equation models the moisture transfer as the sum of the capillary moisture flux:

∂w
– D w ∇ ( w ( φ ) ) = – D w ------- ∇φ = – ξD w ∇φ
∂φ

and the vapor diffusion flux:

δ p ∇p v ( T ) = δ p ∇ ( φp sat ( T ) )

with the following material properties, fields, and source:

• ξ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the moisture storage capacity.

• δp (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability.
• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• psat (SI unit: Pa) is the vapor saturation pressure.
• T (SI unit: K) is the temperature.
• Dw (SI unit: m2/s) is the moisture diffusivity.
• G (SI unit: kg/m3·s) is the moisture source.

Theory for moisture transport in air

The Moisture Transport in Air Interface solves for the following equation, in which
the moisture content variation is expressed through the transport of vapor
concentration, which itself can be expressed as the product of molar mass of water,
relative humidity, and vapor saturation concentration:

∂c v
M v --------- + M v u ⋅ ∇c v + ∇ ⋅ g = G (4-100)
∂t

234 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 g = – M v D ∇c v (4-101)

c v = φc sat (4-102)

with the following material properties, fields, and source:

• Μv (SI unit: kg/mol) is the molar mass of water vapor.

• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• csat (SI unit: mol/m3) is the vapor saturation concentration.
• D (SI unit: m2/s) is the vapor diffusion coefficient in air.
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the air velocity field.
• G (SI unit: kg/(m3⋅s)) is the moisture source (or sink).
The transport of vapor concentration is done by convection and diffusion in moist air.

The moisture is supposed to be constituted only of vapor. In other terms the liquid
concentration is null.

THEORY FOR MOISTURE TRANSPORT | 235

 Theory for the Heat Transfer
Multiphysics Couplings
In this section:

• Theory for the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Interfaces
• Theory for the Moisture Flow Interface
• Theory for the Thermoelectric Effect Interface
• Theory for the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface
• Theory for the Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture Transport
Interface
• Theory for the Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Interface
• Theory for the Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces
• Theory for the Electromagnetic Heating Interfaces
• Theory for the Thermal Stress Interface

Theory for the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer

Interfaces
The following points of the theory of Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat
Transfer are discussed in this part:

• The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Equations

• Turbulent Nonisothermal Flow Theory
• Theory for the Nonisothermal Screen Boundary Condition
• Theory for the Interior Fan Boundary Condition

See Theory for the Single-Phase Flow Interfaces and Theory for the Turbulent Flow
Interfaces in the CFD Module User’s Guide for a description of the theory related to
laminar and turbulent single-phase flow interfaces.

THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW AND CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER

EQUATIONS
In industrial applications it is common that the density of a process fluid varies. These
variations can have a number of different sources but the most common one is the

236 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

presence of an inhomogeneous temperature field. This module includes the
Nonisothermal Flow predefined multiphysics coupling to simulate systems in which
the density varies with temperature.

Other situations where the density might vary includes chemical reactions, for instance
where reactants associate or dissociate.

The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer interfaces contain the fully
compressible formulation of the continuity and momentum equations:

∂ρ
------ + ∇ ⋅ ( ρu ) = 0
∂t
(4-103)
∂u
ρ ------- + ρu ⋅ ∇u = – ∇p + ∇ ⋅ τ + F
∂t

where

• ρ is the density (SI unit: kg/m3)

• u is the velocity vector (SI unit: m/s)
• p is the pressure (SI unit: Pa)
• τ is the viscous stress tensor (SI unit: Pa), equal for a compressible fluid to:
2
τ = μ ( ∇u + ( ∇u ) T ) – --- μ ( ∇ ⋅ u )I
3

• μ is the dynamic viscosity (SI unit: Pa·s)

• F is the body force vector (SI unit: N/m3)

It also solves the heat equation, which for a fluid is given in Equation 4-16 by

∂T ∂p
ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = α p T  + u ⋅ ∇p + τ: ∇u + Q
 ∂t  ∂t 

where in addition to the quantities above

• Cp is the specific heat capacity at constant pressure (SI unit: J/(kg·K))

• T is the absolute temperature (SI unit: K)
• q is the heat flux by conduction (SI unit: W/m2)
• qr is the heat flux by radiation (SI unit: W/m2)
• αp is the coefficient of thermal expansion (SI unit: 1/K):

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 237

 1 ∂ρ
α p = – ---
ρ ∂T

• Q contains heat sources other than viscous heating (SI unit: W/m3)

The work done by pressure changes term

∂p
Q p = α p T  ------ + u ⋅ ∇ p
 ∂t 

and the viscous heating term

Q vd = τ: ∇u

are not included by default because they are usually negligible. These terms can,
however, be added by selecting corresponding check boxes in the Nonisothermal Flow
feature.

The physics interface also supports heat transfer in solids (Equation 4-14):

∂T
ρC p  ------- + u trans ⋅ ∇ T + ∇ ⋅ ( q + q r ) = Q ted + Q
∂t

where Qted is the thermoelastic damping heat source (SI unit: W/(m3)). This term is
not included by default but must be added by selecting the corresponding check box.

• The Heat Balance Equation

• Turbulent Nonisothermal Flow Theory

TURBULENT NONISOTHERMAL FLOW THEORY

Turbulent energy transport is conceptually more complicated than energy transport in
laminar flows because the turbulence is also a form of energy.

Equations for compressible turbulence are derived using the Favre average. The Favre
˜
average of a variable T is denoted T and is defined by

˜ ρT
T = -------
ρ

where the bar denotes the usual Reynolds average. The full field is then decomposed as

˜
T = T + T″

238 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

With this notation the energy balance equation becomes

˜ ˜ u˜i u˜i ˜ ρu i ″u i ″
∂ ρE ˜ u i u i ρu i ″u i ″ ∂  ρu˜  ˜ + ----------
- + u j -------------------- =
  + ----------- + -------------------- +  jH (4-104)
∂ t  2  2  ∂ xj   2  2 

∂  q ρu j ″u i ″u i ″ ∂ u˜
 – j – ρu j ″H″ + τ ij u i ″ – ----------------------------- + ( ( τ – ρu i ″u j ″ ) )
∂ xj 2 ∂ x j i ij

where H is the enthalpy. The vector

∂T
q j = – λ ------- (4-105)
∂x j

is the laminar conductive heat flux and

∂u i ∂u j 2 ∂u k
τ ij = μ  -------- + -------- – --- μ --------- δ ij
 ∂x j ∂x i  3 ∂x k

is the laminar, viscous stress tensor. Notice that the thermal conductivity is denoted λ.

The modeling assumptions are in large part analogous to those for incompressible
turbulence modeling. The stress tensor

– ρu i''u'' j

is modeled using the Boussinesq approximation:

˜ ˜ ˜
T  ∂u i ∂u j 2 ∂u k 2
– ρu i ″u j ″ = ρτ ij = μ T  -------- + -------- – --- μ --------- δ ij – --- ρkδ ij (4-106)
∂
 j x ∂ x i 3 ∂ x k 3

where k is the turbulent kinetic energy, which in turn is defined by

1
ρk = --- ρu i ″u i ″ (4-107)
2

The correlation between uj″ and H″ in Equation 4-104 is the turbulent transport of
heat. It is modeled analogously to the laminar conductive heat flux

˜ μ T C p ∂T ˜
T ∂T
ρu j ″H″ = q j = – λ T ------- = – -------------- ------- (4-108)
∂x j Pr T ∂x j

The molecular diffusion term,

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 239

 τ ij u i ″

and turbulent transport term,

ρu j ″u i ″u i ″
----------------------------
-
2

are modeled by a generalization of the molecular diffusion and turbulent transport

terms found in the incompressible k equation

ρu j ″u i ″u i ″ μ T ∂k
τ ij u i ″ – ----------------------------- =  μ + ------ ------- (4-109)
2  σ k ∂x j

Inserting Equation 4-105, Equation 4-106, Equation 4-107, Equation 4-108 and
Equation 4-109 into Equation 4-104 gives

˜ ˜ u˜i u˜i
∂ ρ E
˜ ui ui
----------
-
 ∂  ρu˜  ˜ ---------- 
- + k  =
  + + k +  j H + (4-110)
∂t  2   ∂ xj   2 
∂  q μ T ∂k ∂ u˜
– j – q j +  μ + ------ ------- +
T T
( ( τ + ρτ ij ) )
∂ xj   σ k ∂x j ∂ x j i ij

The Favre average can also be applied to the momentum equation, which, using
Equation 4-106, can be written

∂ ρu˜ ∂p
∂ ρu˜ ˜ = ------ ∂ ( τ + ρτ T )
( i) + ( j ui ) – -+ (4-111)
∂t ∂ xj ∂x j ∂ x j ij ij

Taking the inner product between u˜ i and Equation 4-111 results in an equation for
the resolved kinetic energy, which can be subtracted from Equation 4-110 with the
following result:

∂ (ρ(E ˜ ˜
+ k ) ) + ∂ ( ρu˜ j ( E + k ) ) = (4-112)
∂t ∂ xj
∂ũ j ∂  μ T ∂k ∂ u˜
– q – q j +  μ + ------ ------- +
T T
–p + ( ( τ + ρτ ij ) )
∂ xj ∂ xj  j  σ k ∂x j ∂ x j i ij

where the relation

˜ ˜ p
H = E + ---
ρ

240 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

has been used.

According to Wilcox (Ref. 24), it is usually a good approximation to neglect the

contributions of k for flows with Mach numbers up to the supersonic range. This gives
the following approximation of Equation 4-112:

˜
∂ ( ρE ˜ ∂ũ j ∂
) + ∂ ( ρu˜ j E ) = – p
T ∂ u˜ T
+ ( – qj – qj ) + ( ( τ + ρτ ij ) ) (4-113)
∂t ∂ xj ∂ xj ∂ xj ∂ x j i ij

Larsson (Ref. 25) suggests to make the split

τ ij = τ˜ij + τ ij ″

Since

τ˜ij » τ ij ″

for all applications of engineering interest, it follows that

τ ij ≈ τ˜ij

and consequently

˜
˜
∂ ( ρE ˜ ∂ũ j ∂  ∂T 
) + ∂ ( ρu˜ j E ) = – p ∂ u˜ tot
+  ( λ + λ T ) ------- + ( τ̃ ) (4-114)
∂t ∂ xj ∂ xj ∂ xj  ∂x j ∂ x j i ij

where

tot  ∂u˜i ∂u˜ j 2 ∂u˜k 

τ̃ ij = ( μ + μ T )  -------- + -------- – --- --------- δ ij
 ∂x j ∂x i 3 ∂x k 

Equation 4-114 is completely analogous to the laminar energy equation of

Equation 4-13 and can be expanded using the same theory to get the temperature
equation similar to Equation 4-16 (see for example Ref. 25):

∂T
˜
∂T
˜  ∂T 
˜
1  ∂ρ  ˜ ∂p ∂p ∂u˜ i
ρC p ------- + ρC p u˜ j ------- + ∂  – ( λ + λ T ) ------- = – ---  ------- T  ------ + u˜ j ------- + τ˜ij --------
∂t ∂x j ∂ x j  ∂x j ρ  ∂T ˜ ∂t ∂x j ∂x j
p

which is the temperature equation solved in the turbulent Nonisothermal Flow and
Conjugate Heat Transfer interfaces.

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 241

 Turbulent Conductivity

Kays-Crawford This is a relatively exact model for PrT, while still quite simple. In
Ref. 26, it is compared to other models for PrT and found to be a good approximation
for most kinds of turbulent wall bounded flows except for turbulent flow of liquid
metals. The model is given by

 1 0.3C p μ T 0.3C p μ T 2 λ  –1
Pr T =  ----------------- + ----------------------- –  -----------------------  1 – exp  – ------------------------------------------   (4-115)
 2Pr T∞ λ Pr T∞  λ    0.3C μ Pr   
p T T∞

where the Prandtl number at infinity is PrT∞ = 0.85 and λ is the conductivity.

Extended Kays-Crawford Weigand et al. (Ref. 27) suggested an extension of

Equation 4-115 to liquid metals by introducing

100λ
Pr T∞ = 0.85 + -------------------------------
-
C p μRe ∞0.888

where Re∞, the Reynolds number at infinity must be provided either as a constant or
as a function of the flow field. This is entered in the Model Inputs section of the Fluid
feature.

Temperature Wall Functions

Analogous to the single-phase flow wall functions (see Wall Functions described for the
Wall boundary condition), there is a theoretical gap between the solid wall and the
computational domain for the fluid and temperature fields. This gap is often ignored
when the computational geometry is drawn.

The heat flux between the fluid with temperature Tf and a wall with temperature Tw, is:

ρC p u τ ( T w – T f )
q wf = -----------------------------------------
+
-
T

where ρ is the fluid density, Cp is the fluid heat capacity, and uτ is the friction velocity.
T+ is the dimensionless temperature and is given by (Ref. 28):

242 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

  + + +
 Prδ w for δ w < δ w1

 2 / 3 – 500 + + +
---------- for δ w1 ≤ δ w < δ w2
T =  15Pr
+
δw +2

 Pr T
 ---------- ln δ +w + β +
for δ w2 ≤ δ w
+
 κ

where in turn

+ δ w ρ C μ1 / 2 k + 10
δ w = ------------------------------- δ w1 = --------------
μ Pr 1 / 3
+ κ Cp μ
δ w2 = 10 10 ---------- Pr = -----------
Pr T λ
Pr T κ
β = 15Pr 2 / 3 – ----------  1 + ln  1000 ---------- 
2κ   Pr T 

λ is the thermal conductivity, and κ is the von Karman constant equal to 0.41.

The distance between the computational fluid domain and the wall, δw, is always hw/2
for automatic wall treatment where hw is the hight of the mesh cell adjacent to the wall.
hw/2 is almost always very small compared to any geometrical quantity of interest, at
least if a boundary layer mesh is used. For wall function, δw is at least hw/2 and can be
bigger if necessary to keep δw+ higher than 11.06. The computational results should
be checked so that the distance between the computational fluid domain and the wall,
δw, is everywhere small compared to any geometrical quantity of interest. The distance
δw is available for evaluation on boundaries.

THEORY FOR THE NONISOTHERMAL SCREEN BOUNDARY CONDITION

When the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling feature is active, the conditions
that apply across a screen in isothermal flow are complemented by:

+
[ H0 ]- = 0 (4-116)

where H0 is the total enthalpy.

• See Screen for the feature node details.

• Also see Screen boundary condition described for the single-phase flow
interfaces.

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 243

 THEORY FOR THE INTERIOR FAN BOUNDARY CONDITION
When the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling feature is active, the conditions
that apply across an interior fan are complemented by:

• If direction is Along normal vector, the outlet temperature Tavg is defined by:

 

 down ( u ⋅ nρC p ) dS T avg =
   down ( u ⋅ nρCp T ) dS
Γ Γ

• If the direction is opposite to normal vector, the outlet temperature Tavg is defined
by:

 

 up ( u ⋅ nρC p ) dS T avg =
   up ( u ⋅ nρCp T ) dS
Γ Γ

Theory for the Moisture Flow Interface

The following points of the theory of Moisture Flow are discussed in this part:

• The Moisture Flow Equations

• Turbulent Moisture Flow Theory
• Theory for the Screen Boundary Condition in Moisture Flow
• Theory for the Interior Fan Boundary Condition in Moisture Flow

See Theory for the Single-Phase Flow Interfaces and Theory for the Turbulent Flow
Interfaces in the CFD Module User’s Guide for a description of the theory related to
laminar and turbulent single-phase flow interfaces.

THE MOISTURE FLOW EQUATIONS

The density and viscosity of moist air depend on its moisture content. This module
includes the Moisture Flow predefined multiphysics coupling to simulate systems in
which the airflow depends on moisture content through its density and viscosity.

The density and viscosity of air might also vary due to temperature variations. See
Theory for the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Interfaces for details
on this other kind of dependency.

The Moisture Flow interface contains the fully compressible formulation of the
continuity and momentum equations. For laminar flow they read:

244 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 ∂ρ
------ + ∇ ⋅ ( ρu ) = 0
∂t
(4-117)
∂u
ρ ------- + ρu ⋅ ∇u = – ∇p + ∇ ⋅ τ + F
∂t

where

• ρ is the density (SI unit: kg/m3)

• u is the velocity vector (SI unit: m/s)
• p is the pressure (SI unit: Pa)
• τ is the viscous stress tensor (SI unit: Pa), equal for a compressible fluid to:
2
τ = μ ( ∇u + ( ∇u ) T ) – --- μ ( ∇ ⋅ u )I
3

• μ is the dynamic viscosity (SI unit: Pa·s)

• F is the body force vector (SI unit: N/m3)

It also solves the equation for moisture transport in air, given in Equation 4-100 by

∂c v
M v --------- + M v u ⋅ ∇c v + ∇ ⋅ g = G
∂t

where in addition to the quantities above

• Mv is the molar mass of water vapor (SI unit: kg/mol)

• cv is the vapor concentration (SI unit: mol/m3)
• g is the moisture flux by diffusion (SI unit: kg/(m2·s)):
g = – M v D ∇c v

• D (SI unit: m2/s) is the vapor diffusion coefficient in air.

• G contains moisture sources (SI unit: kg/(m3·s))

TURBULENT MOISTURE FLOW THEORY

The Favre average c˜v of the vapor concentration cv is defined by

ρc v
c˜v = ---------
ρ

where the bar denotes the usual Reynolds average. The full field can be decomposed
as the sum of the Favre average and the Favre fluctuation:

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 245

 c v = c˜v + c v ″

By applying this decomposition and averaging the moisture transport equations,

unclosed terms are introduced in the equations. Among them, the turbulent moisture
transport flux contains the velocity and vapor concentration fluctuations:

∂c v ″
u j ″ -----------
∂x j

This flux is modeled using a gradient based assumption, where the additional transport
is related to the turbulent viscosity νT through the turbulent Schmidt number ScT.
The turbulent diffusivity DT is defined by

νT
D T = ----------
Sc T

The following moisture transport equation is solved:

∂c˜v ∂c˜v ∂  ∂c˜v

M v -------- + M v u˜ j -------- + M v  – ( D + D T ) -------- = G (4-118)
∂t ∂x j ∂ xj  ∂x j 

Kays-Crawford Model for Turbulent Diffusivity

By analogy with turbulent heat transfer, the turbulent Schmidt number ScT is given by
(Ref. 26)

 1 0.3μ T Sc μ T Sc 2 μ  –1
Sc T =  ----------------- + ----------------------- –  0.3 -------------  1 – exp  – -----------------------------------------   (4-119)
 2Sc T∞ μ Sc T∞  μ    0.3μ Sc Sc   
T T∞

where the Schmidt number at infinity is ScT∞ = 0.85 and the Schmidt number is
defined as

ν
Sc = ----
D

where ν is the kinematic viscosity.

Moisture Transport Wall Functions

Analogous to the single-phase flow wall functions (see Wall Functions described for the
Wall boundary condition), there is a theoretical gap between the solid wall and the
computational domain for the fluid and relative humidity fields. This gap is often
ignored when the computational geometry is drawn.

246 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Assuming that the turbulent heat and moisture transfer in the near-wall region are
analogous, the same type of wall functions used for the temperature (Ref. 28) is also
applicable for the moisture transport. The moisture transfer wall function is formulated
as a function of the turbulent Schmidt number, instead of the corresponding Prandtl
number.

The moisture flux at the lift-off position between the air with vapor concentration cv,a
and a wall with vapor concentration cv,w, is:

M v u τ ( c v, w – c v, a ) M v u τ c sat ( φ w – φ a )
g wf = -----------------------------------------------
+
- ≅ --------------------------------------------------
+
φ φ

where uτ is the friction velocity, csat is the saturation concentration at the lift-off
+
position, and φ is the dimensionless relative humidity given by (Ref. 28):

 + + +
 Scδ w for δ w < δ w1

 2 / 3 – 500 + + +
---------- for δ w1 ≤ δ w < δ w2
φ =  15Sc
+
δw +2

 Sc T
 ---------- ln δ +w + β +
for δ w2 ≤ δ w
+
 κ

where in turn

+ δ w ρ C μ1 / 2 k + 10 -
δ w = ------------------------------- δ w1 = -------------
μ Sc 1 / 3
+ κ μ
δ w2 = 10 10 ---------- Sc = --------
Sc T ρD
Sc T κ
β = 15Sc 2 / 3 – ----------  1 + ln  1000 ---------- 
2κ Sc T

where κ is the von Karman constant equal to 0.41, Cμ is a turbulence modeling

constant, and k is the turbulent kinetic energy.

The distance between the computational fluid domain and the wall, δw, is always hw/2
for automatic wall treatment where hw is the hight of the mesh cell adjacent to the wall.
hw/2 is almost always very small compared to any geometrical quantity of interest, at
least if a boundary layer mesh is used. For wall function, δw is at least hw/2 and can be
bigger if necessary to keep δw+ higher than 11.06. The computational results should
be checked so that the distance between the computational fluid domain and the wall,

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 247

 δw, is everywhere small compared to any geometrical quantity of interest. The distance
δw is available for evaluation on boundaries.

THEORY FOR THE SCREEN BOUNDARY CONDITION IN MOISTURE FLOW

When the Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling feature is active, the conditions that
apply across a screen in moisture flow are complemented by:

+
[ cv ]- = 0 (4-120)

to ensure mass conservation.

• See Screen for the feature node details.

• Also see Screen boundary condition described for the single-phase flow
interfaces.

THEORY FOR THE INTERIOR FAN BOUNDARY CONDITION IN MOISTURE

FLOW
When the Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling feature is active, the conditions that
apply across an interior fan are complemented by:

• If direction is Along normal vector, the outlet vapor concentration cavg is defined
by:

 

 down ( ρu ⋅ n ) dS c avg =
   down ( ρu ⋅ ncv ) dS
Γ Γ

• If the direction is opposite to normal vector, the outlet vapor concentration cavg is
defined by:

 

 up ( ρu ⋅ n ) dS c avg =
   up ( ρu ⋅ ncv ) dS
Γ Γ

Theory for the Thermoelectric Effect Interface

The Thermoelectric Effect Interface implements thermoelectric effect, which is the
direct conversion of temperature differences to electric voltage or vice versa. Devices
such as thermoelectric coolers for electronic cooling or portable refrigerators rely on
this effect. While Joule heating (resistive heating) is an irreversible phenomenon, the
thermoelectric effect is, in principle, reversible.

248 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Historically, the thermoelectric effect is known by three different names, reflecting its
discovery in experiments by Seebeck, Peltier, and Thomson. The Seebeck effect is the
conversion of temperature differences into electricity, the Peltier effect is the
conversion of electricity to temperature differences, and the Thomson effect is heat
produced by the product of current density and temperature gradients. These effects
are thermodynamically related by the Thomson relations:

P = ST

dS
μ Th = T
dT

where P is the Peltier coefficient (SI unit: V), S is the Seebeck coefficient
(SI unit: V/K), T is the temperature (SI unit: K), and μTh is the Thomson coefficient
(SI unit: V/K). These relations show that all coefficients can be considered different
descriptions of one and the same quantity. The COMSOL formulation primarily uses
the Seebeck coefficient. The Peltier coefficient is also used as an intermediate variable,
but the Thomson coefficient is not used.

When simulating the thermoelectric effect, the following fluxes are the quantities of
interest:

• Conductive heat flux q, defined by

q = – k∇T + PJ (4-121)

• Electric current density J, defined by

J = – σ ( ∇V + S∇T ) (4-122)

Thermoelectric efficiency is measured by the figure of merit Z (SI unit: 1/K), defined
as:

S2 σ
Z = ----------
k

where σ is the electrical conductivity and k the thermal conductivity.

Some other quantities of relevance are the electric field E and the Joule heat source Q:

E = – ∇V

Q = J⋅E

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 249

 From these definitions, conservation of heat energy and electrical current in an
immobile solid reads:

∂T
ρC p +∇⋅q = Q
∂t

∇ ⋅ J = Qj

where ρ is the density, Cp the heat capacity, and Qj is the current source.

HOW THE SEEBECK, PELTIER, AND THOMSON EFFECTS ARE INCLUDED

IN THE GENERAL FORMULATION
The general formulation of thermoelectric effect redefines the heat flux and the electric
current according to Equation 4-121 and Equation 4-122, respectively. This
formulation does not necessarily correspond to the formulation used when only a
particular aspect of thermoelectric effect is considered: Seebeck, Peltier, or Thomson.
This paragraph describes how these separated effects can be recognized in the general
formulation.

Seebeck Effect
The Seebeck effect is described as the conversion of temperature gradient into electric
current. The contribution of the Seebeck effect is defined as a current contribution

J Se = – σS∇T

This formulation corresponds directly to Equation 4-122 used in the general

formulation.

Peltier Effect
The Peltier effect is described as the conversion of t electric current in heat source or
sink. It is defined as an heat source contribution

Q Pe = – P∇ ⋅ J

This contribution is obtained by developing the divergence of q term in the heat

equation when q is defined following Equation 4-121.

Thomson Effect
The Thomson effect defines the heat source induced by a current in presence of a
temperature gradient in thermoelectric material. The heat source is defined by

Q Th = – μ Th J ⋅ ∇T

250 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

This contribution is obtained again by developing the divergence of the q term in the
heat equation when q is defined following Equation 4-121. This time consider the
term −TJ ⋅ ∇S. Assuming that S is function of T, then:

dS
– TJ ⋅ ∇S = – T J ⋅ ∇T = – μ Th J ⋅ ∇T
dT

Theory for the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface

The detailed theory leading to the equations of local thermal non-equilibrium heat
transfer in porous media is presented above in Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous
Media. This part only recalls the main results and describes how Local Thermal
Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling feature implements them.

The local thermal non-equilibrium hypothesis describes heat transfer in a porous

medium using two temperature fields to solve: Tf for the fluid phase and Ts for the
porous matrix. These should satisfy the following couple of partial differential
equations:

∂T s
θ p ρ s C p, s + ∇ ⋅ q s = q sf ( T f – T s ) + θ p Q s (4-123)
∂t

∂T f
( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f + ρ f C p, f u p ⋅ ∇T f + ∇ ⋅ q f = q sf ( T s – T f ) + ( 1 – θ p )Q f (4-124)
∂t

Recall the Fourier’s law of conduction adapted to the local thermal non-equilibrium
hypothesis:

q s = – θ p k s ∇T s

q f = – ( 1 – θ p )k f ∇T f

and the quantities used in this problem:

• θp is the solid volume fraction (SI unit: 1)

• ρs and ρf are the solid and fluid densities (SI unit: kg/m3)
• Cp, s and Cp, f are the solid and fluid heat capacities at constant pressure (SI unit:
J/(kg·K))
• qs and qf are the solid and fluid conductive heat fluxes (SI unit: W/m2)
• ks and kf are the solid and fluid thermal conductivities (SI unit: W/(m·K))

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 251

 • qsf is the interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient (SI unit: W/(m3·K))
• Qs and Qf are the solid and fluid heat sources (SI unit: W/m3)
• up is the porous velocity vector (SI unit: m/s)

PREDEFINED MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACE

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface is a predefined coupling between The
Heat Transfer in Solids Interface and The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface. These two
interfaces solve for Equation 4-123 and Equation 4-124, respectively, but without the
heat exchange term ±qsf(Tf − Ts).

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling feature combines two

actions in order to couple the two aforementioned physics interfaces. It first multiplies
each energy equation by its volume fraction: θp and (1 − θp) for solid and fluid phases,
respectively. Then it adds the heat exchange term ±qsf(Tf − Ts) in both equations.

VOLUMETRIC AND SURFACE THERMAL CONDITIONS

As shown in Equation 4-123 and Equation 4-124, the volumetric heat sources θpQs
and (1 − θp)Qf are applied to the energy equations. The Heat Source features of each
physics interface though specifies Qs and Qf. Special care is therefore needed when
defining a heat source for the whole porous medium. You would have to ensure that
the heat source densities, Qs and Qf, are both equal to the heat rate density that was
intended to the porous medium.

Theory for the Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture
Transport Interface
The Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling
implements the following equations for heat and moisture transport, derived from
Ref. 15:

∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ∇ ⋅ ( – k eff ∇T – L v δ p ∇( φp sat ) ) = Q (4-125)
∂t

∂φ
ξ ------ + ∇ ⋅ ( – ξ D w ∇φ – δ p ∇( φp sat ) ) = G (4-126)
∂t

where:

• (ρCp)eff (SI unit: J/(m3·K)) is the effective volumetric heat capacity at constant
pressure.

252 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• T (SI unit: K) is the temperature.
• keff (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the effective thermal conductivity.
• Lv (SI unit: J/kg) is the latent heat of evaporation.
• δp (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability.
• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• psat (SI unit: Pa) is the vapor saturation pressure.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source.
• ξ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the moisture storage capacity.
• Dw (SI unit: m2/s) is the moisture diffusivity.
• G (SI unit: W/m3) is the moisture source.

Theory for the Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport
Interface
The Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling implements the
following equations for heat and moisture transport:

∂T
ρC p ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q (4-127)
∂t

q = – k∇T (4-128)

∂c v
M v --------- + M v u ⋅ ∇c v + ∇ ⋅ g = G (4-129)
∂t

g = – M v D ∇c v (4-130)

c v = φc sat (4-131)

where:

• ρCp (SI unit: J/(m3·K)) is the volumetric heat capacity at constant pressure.
• T (SI unit: K) is the temperature.
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the air velocity field.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source.
• k (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the thermal conductivity.
• Μv (SI unit: kg/mol) is the molar mass of water vapor.

THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 253

 • φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• csat (SI unit: mol/m3) is the vapor saturation concentration.
• D (SI unit: m2/s) is the vapor diffusion coefficient in air.
• G (SI unit: kg/(m3⋅s)) is the moisture source (or sink).

Theory for the Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces

The theory for the equations of heat transfer and moisture transport by laminar and
turbulent air flows can be found in Theory for the Moisture Flow Interface and Theory
for the Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Interface.

Theory for the Electromagnetic Heating Interfaces

COMSOL Multiphysics provides four multiphysics interfaces for handling
electromagnetic heating in the Heat Transfer interfaces:

• The Joule Heating Interface

• The Laser Heating Interface (requires the Wave Optics Module)
• The Induction Heating Interface (requires the AC/DC Module for 3D models)
• The Microwave Heating Interface (requires the RF Module)

They all have in common the multiphysics coupling feature Electromagnetic Heating,
which adds weak contributions due to resistive losses in the domains and boundaries,
and shares the temperature variable with the electromagnetics interfaces. The
underlying theory can be found in the AC/DC Module User’s Guide, RF Module
User’s Guide, and Wave Optics Module User’s Guide.

Theory for the Thermal Stress Interface

In the Structural Mechanics interfaces, two multiphysics interfaces handle thermal
stress:

• The Thermal Stress Interface

• The Joule Heating and Thermal Expansion Interface

Both require the Structural Mechanics Module. They have in common the use of the
Thermal Expansion multiphysics coupling that models temperature dependence of the
strain tensor and thermoelastic damping. For more details about the underlying
theory, see the Structural Mechanics Module User’s Guide.

254 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Theory for Thermal Contact
Theory for the Thermal Contact Feature
The Thermal Contact feature node has correlations to evaluate the joint conductance
at two contacting surfaces.

The heat fluxes at the upside and downside boundaries depend on the temperature
difference according to the relations:

– n d ⋅ ( – k d ∇T d ) = – h ( T u – T d ) + rQ b

– n u ⋅ ( – k u ∇T u ) = – h ( T d – T u ) + ( 1 – r )Q b

At a microscopic level, contact is made at a finite number of spots as in Figure 4-15.

masp,u asp,u
Y

Figure 4-15: Contacting surfaces at the microscopic level.

The joint conductance h has three contributions: the constriction conductance, hc,
from the contact spots, the gap conductance, hg, due to the fluid at the interstitial
space, and the radiative conductance, hr:

h = hc + hg + hr

SURFACE ASPERITIES
The microscopic surface asperities are characterized by the average height σu, asp and
σd, asp and the average slope mu, asp and md, asp. The RMS values σasp and masp are
(4.16 in Ref. 1):

σ asp = σ u2, asp + σ d2, asp m asp = m u2, asp + m d2, asp

THEORY FOR THERMAL CONTACT | 255

 CONSTRICTION CONDUCTANCE

Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich (CMY) Correlation

The Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich (CMY) correlation is valid for isotropic rough surfaces
and has been formulated using a model assuming plastic deformation of the surface
asperities. However, this model does not compute nor store the plastic deformations
of the asperities. It means that, despite that a plastic deformation of the asperities is
assumed, this contact model has no memory. For example, if a load is applied twice the
thermal contact is identical in both cases. The Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich (CMY)
correlation relates hc to the asperities and pressure load at the contact interface:

m asp p 0.95
h c = 1.25k contact -------------  -------
σ asp  H c

Here, Hc is the microhardness of the softer material, p is the contact pressure, and
kcontact is the harmonic mean of the contacting surface conductivities:

2k u k d
k contact = -------------------
ku + kd

When ku (resp. kd) is not isotropic, it is replaced by its normal

conductivity nTkun (resp. nTkdn).

The relative pressure p ⁄ Hc can be evaluated by specifying Hc directly or using the

following relation (4.16.1 in Ref. 1) for the relative pressure using c1 and c2, the
Vickers correlation coefficient and size index:

  -----------------------------------
1
p  p  ( 1 + 0.071c 2 )
------- =  ------------------------------------------------------
Hc   σ asp c2
 c 1  1.62 ----------- - m asp 
σ 0


The coefficients c1 and c2 are the Vickers correlation coefficient and size index,
respectively, and σ0 is equal to 1 µm. For materials with Brinell hardness between 1.30
and 7.60 GPa, c1 and c2 are given by the correlation below (4.16.1 in Ref. 1):

c1 HB HB 2 HB 3
------- = 4.0 – 5.77 -------- + 4.0  -------- – 0.61  --------
H0 H0 H0 H0

256 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 HB
c 2 = – 0.37 + 0.442 --------
c1

The Brinell hardness is denoted by HB, and H0 is equal to 3.178 GPa.

Mikic Elastic Correlation

The Mikic correlation is valid for isotropic rough surfaces and assumes elastic
deformations of surface asperities. It gives hc by the following relation:

m asp 0.94
h c = 1.54k contact -------------  ------------------------
2p
σ asp  mE contact

Here, Econtact is an effective Young’s modulus for the contact interface, satisfying
(4.16.3 in Ref. 1):

1 - 1 – ν u2 1 – ν d2
------------------ = --------------- + ---------------
E contact Eu Ed

where Eu and Ed are the Young’s moduli of the two contacting surfaces and νu and νd
are the Poisson’s ratios.

GAP CONDUCTANCE
The gap conductance due to interstitial fluid cannot be neglected for high fluid
thermal conductivity or high contact pressure. The parallel-plate gap gas correlation
assumes that the interstitial fluid is a gas and defines hg by:

kg
h g = ------------------
Y + Mg

Here kg is the gas conductivity, Y denotes the mean separation thickness (see
Figure 4-15), and Mg is the gas parameter equal to:

kB Tg
M g = αβΛ Λ = ------------------------
2
-
2πD p g

In these relations, α is the contact thermal accommodation parameter, β is a gas

property parameter (equal to 1.7 for air), Λ is the gas mean free path, kB is the
Boltzmann constant, D is the average gas particle diameter, pg is the gas pressure
(often the atmospheric pressure), and Tg is the gap temperature equal to:

THEORY FOR THERMAL CONTACT | 257

 Tu + Td
T g = --------------------
2

The mean separation thickness, Y, is a function of the contact pressure, p. For low
values of p near 0 Pa, Y goes to infinity since no contact occur. For high values of p—
greater than Hc ⁄ 2 in the Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich model and greater than Hc ⁄ 4 in
the Mikic elastic model—Y reduces to 0 meaning that the contact is considered as
perfect.

RADIATIVE CONDUCTANCE
At high temperatures, above 600 °C, radiative conductance needs to be considered.
The gray-diffuse parallel plate model provides the following formula for hr:

εu εd
h r = ----------------------------------- σ ( T u3 + T u2 T d + T u T d2 + T d3 )
εu + εd – εu εd

which implies that:

εu εd
h r ( T u – T d ) = ----------------------------------- σ ( T u4 – T d4 )
εu + εd – εu εd

εu εd
h r ( T d – T u ) = ----------------------------------- σ ( T d4 – T u4 )
εu + εd – εu εd

THERMAL FRICTION
The friction heat, Qb, is partitioned into rQb and (1 − r)Qb at the contact interface. If
the two bodies are identical, r and (1 − r) would be 0.5 so that half of the friction heat
goes to each surface. However, in the general case where the two bodies are made of
different materials, the partition rate might not be 0.5. The Charron’s relation (Ref. 2)
defines r as:

1 ρ u C p, u k u
r = --------------- ξd = -------------------------
1 + ξd ρ d C p, d k d

and symmetrically, (1 − r) is:

1 ρ d C p, d k d
( 1 – r ) = --------------- ξu = -------------------------
1 + ξu ρ u C p, u k u

258 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

For anisotropic conductivities, nTkdn (resp. nTkun) replaces kd (resp. ku).

Thermal Contact

Contact Switch: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/contact_switch

REFERENCES
1. A. Bejan et al., Heat Transfer Handbook, John Wiley & Sons, 2003.

2. F. Charron, Partage de la chaleur entre deux corps frottants, Publication

Scientifique et Technique du Ministère de l’Air, no. 182, 1943.

THEORY FOR THERMAL CONTACT | 259

 Moist Air Fluid Type
For The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface, you can select moist air as the fluid type.
This is provided to calculate the relative humidity and to deduce if there is
condensation. The following theory assumes that moist air is an ideal gas.

Humidity
This part defines the different definitions of humidity in the moist air theory.

MOISTURE CONTENT
The moisture content (also called mixing ratio or humidity ratio) is defined as the
ratio of water vapor mass, mv, to dry air mass, ma:

mv pv Mv
x vap = -------- = --------------- (4-132)
ma pa Ma

where pv is the water vapor partial pressure, pa is the dry air partial pressure, and Ma
and Mv are the molar mass of dry air and water vapor, respectively. Without
condensation, the moisture content is not affected by temperature and pressure. The
moisture content represents a ratio of mass, and it is thus a dimensionless number.

RELATIVE HUMIDITY
The relative humidity of an air mixture is expressed as follows:

pv
φ = ---------- (4-133)
p sat

where pv is the water vapor partial pressure and psat is the saturation pressure of water
vapor.

According to Dalton’s law, the total pressure of a mixture of gases is the sum of all the
partial pressures of each individual gas; that is, p = pv + pa where pa is the dry air
partial pressure.

The relative humidity formulation is often used to quantify humidity. However, for the
same quantity of moisture content, the relative humidity changes with temperature
and pressure, so in order to compare different values of φ it has to be at the same

260 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

temperature and pressure conditions. Then the thermodynamical properties of moist
air can be deduced through the mixture formula described below.

The relative humidity is useful to study the condensation as it defines the boundary
between the liquid phase and the vapor phase. In fact, when the relative humidity φ
reaches unity, it means that the vapor is saturated and that water vapor condenses.

The Relative humidity cannot be greater than 1, above which value the
water vapor is condensing. If the value is greater than 1, the Relative
humidity value is forced to be 1. The condensation area cannot be
simulated.

SPECIFIC HUMIDITY
The specific humidity is defined as the ratio of water vapor, mv, to the total mass,
mtot = mv + ma:

mv
ω = ------------ (4-134)
m tot

When the water vapor only accounts for a few percent in the total mass,
the moisture content and the specific humidity are very close: xvap ≈ ω
(only for low values). For larger values of ω, the two quantities are more
precisely related by:

ω
x vap = -------------
1–ω

CONCENTRATION
The concentration is defined by:

nv
c v = ------ (4-135)
V

where nv is the amount of water vapor (SI unit: mol) and V is the total volume (SI unit:
m3). According to the ideal gas hypothesis, the saturation concentration is defined as
follows:

p sat ( T )
c sat = -------------------- (4-136)
RT

MOIST AIR FLUID TYPE | 261

 Saturation State
The saturation state is reached when the relative humidity reaches one. It means that
the partial pressure of the water vapor is equal to the saturation pressure (which also
depends on the temperature).

From Ref. 33, the saturation pressure can be defined using the following expression:

T – 273.15 [ K ]
7.5 --------------------------------------
T – 35.85 [ K ]
p sat ( T ) = 610.7 [ Pa ] ⋅ 10 (4-137)

Temperature and saturation pressure are deduced from this formulation.

Moist Air Properties

The thermodynamical properties of moist air can be found with some mixture laws.
These are defined in this paragraph.

PRELIMINARY DEFINITIONS

Molar Fraction
The molar fraction of dry air, Xa, and the molar fraction of water vapor, Xv, are defined
such as:

na pa p – φp sat
X a = ---------- = ------ = ----------------------- (4-138)
n tot p p

nv pv φp sat
X v = ---------- = ------ = -------------- (4-139)
n tot p p

where:

• na is amount of dry air

• nv is amount of water vapor
• ntot is the total amount of moist air in mol
• pa is the partial pressure of dry air
• pv is the partial pressure of water vapor
• p is the pressure

262 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• φ is the relative humidity, and
• psat is the saturation pressure.

From Equation 4-138 and Equation 4-139, the following relation holds:

Xa + Xv = 1

Relative Humidity and Moisture Content

Moisture content and relative humidity can be related with the following expression:

x vap p
φ = ------------------------------------------- (4-140)
Mv
p sat  -------- + x vap
Ma

MIXTURE PROPERTIES
The thermodynamical properties are built through a mixture formula. The expressions
depend on dry air properties and pure steam properties and are balanced by the mass
fraction.

Density
According to the ideal gas law, the mixture density ρm expression is defined as follows:

p
ρ m = -------- ( M a X a + M v X v ) (4-141)
RT

where Ma and Mv are the molar mass of dry air and water vapor, respectively, and Xa
and Xv are the molar fraction of dry air and water vapor, respectively.

The ideal gas assumption sets the compressibility factor and the
enhancement factor to unity. In fact, the accuracy lost by this assumption
is small as the pure steam represents a small fraction.

Heat Capacity at Constant Pressure

According to Ref. 34, the heat capacity at constant pressure of a mixture is:

Ma Mv
C p, m = ---------- X a C p, a + ---------- X v C p, v (4-142)
Mm Mm

where Mm represents the mixture molar fraction and is defined by

MOIST AIR FLUID TYPE | 263

 Mm = Xa Ma + Xv Mv

and where Cp, a and Cp, v are the heat capacity at constant pressure of dry air and
steam, respectively.

Dynamic Viscosity
According to Ref. 34 and Ref. 35, the dynamic viscosity is defined as:

Xi μi
μm =  ---------------------------- (4-143)
i = a, v  X j ϕ ij
j = a, v

where ϕ ij is given by

1 1 2
--- ---
μi 2 Mj 4
1 +  -----  -------
 μ j  M i
ϕ ij = -----------------------------------------------
1
-
---
Mi 2
8  1 + -------
 M j

Here, μa and μv are the dynamic viscosity of dry air and steam, respectively.

Thermal Conductivity
According to Ref. 35 and Ref. 34, the thermal conductivity of the mixture is defined
similarly:

Xi ki
km =  ---------------------------
- (4-144)
i = a, v  X j ϕ ij
j = a, v

where ka and kv are the thermal conductivity of dry air and steam, respectively.

PURE COMPONENT PROPERTIES

The dry air and steam properties used to define the mixture properties are
temperature-dependent high-order polynomials. The dry air properties are taken from
the Built-in materials database, and the polynomials have been computed according
Ref. 36 for pure steam properties. The steam properties are based on the Industrial
Formulation IAPWS-IF97.

The valid temperature range is 200 K < T < 1200 K for dry air properties and
273.15 K < T < 873.15 K for steam properties.

264 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS VARIABLES
These variables are provided to display the related quantities:

• Moisture content xvap.

• Vapor mass fraction omega_moist.
• Concentration of water vapor c.
• Relative humidity phi. This variable corresponds to the calculated φ with the system
temperature and pressure.
• Condensation indicator condInd; this indicator is set to 1 if condensation has been
detected (φ = 1) and 0 if not.

FUNCTIONS
The following functions are defined and can be used as feature parameters as well as in
postprocessing. Here, feature stands for fluid or porous, depending on whether the
function is defined in the Fluid or in the Porous Medium feature:

• ht.feature .fc(RH,T, pA), where RH is the relative humidity 0 ≤ φ ≤ 1 , T is the

temperature (SI unit: K), and pA is the pressure (SI unit: Pa). It returns the
corresponding water vapor concentration (SI unit: mol/m3) by deriving the
following relation from Equation 4-133, Equation 4-136, and Equation 4-140:
x vap p
c v = -----------------------------------------
x M
-------v-
 vap + M a RT

The concentration computation assumes that the ideal gas assumption is

valid.

• ht.feature .fxvap(RH, T, pA), where RH is the relative humidity 0 ≤ φ ≤ 1 , T is

the temperature (SI unit: K) and pA is the pressure (SI unit Pa). It returns the
moisture content (SI unit: 1) by using the following relation:
φp sat Mv
x vap = ----------------------- ⋅ --------
p – φp sat M a

• ht.feature .fpsat(T), where T is the temperature (SI unit: K). It returns the
saturation pressure (SI unit: Pa) by using Equation 4-137.
• ht.feature .Lv(T), where T is the temperature (SI unit: K). It returns the latent
heat of evaporation (SI unit: J/kg) as a linear interpolation of the data from Ref. 36,

MOIST AIR FLUID TYPE | 265

 which provides steam properties based on the Industrial Formulation IAPWS-IF97.
The temperature-dependency is as shown on Figure 4-16.

Figure 4-16: Latent heat of evaporation as a function of temperature.

266 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer
When the object to model in COMSOL Multiphysics is thin or slender enough along
one of its geometry dimensions, there is usually only a small variation in temperature
along the object’s thickness or cross section. For such objects, it is computationally
more efficient to reduce the model geometry to 2D or even 1D and to use the
out-of-plane heat transfer mechanism. Figure 4-17 shows examples of possible
situations in which this type of geometry reduction can be applied.

qup

qdown

Figure 4-17: Geometry reduction from 3D to 1D (top) and from 3D to 2D (bottom).

The reduced geometry does not include all the boundaries of the original 3D
geometry. For example, the reduced geometry does not represent the upside and
downside surfaces of the plate in Figure 4-17 as boundaries.

Out-of-Plane Radiation and Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

Equation Formulation

2D GEOMETRIES
In 2D geometries, the temperature is assumed to be constant in the out-of-plane
direction (z-direction with default spatial coordinate names). The equation for heat
transfer in solids, Equation 4-14, and in fluids, Equation 4-16, are replaced by:

OUT-OF-PLANE HEAT TRANSFER | 267

 ∂T
d z ρC p ------- + ∇ ⋅ q = d z Q + q 0 (4-145)
∂t

∂T
d z ρC p ------- + ρC p d z u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = d z Q + q 0 (4-146)
∂t

Here dz is the thickness of the domain in the out-of-plane direction. Here, the
conductive heat flux, q, becomes

q = – d z k∇T

1D AXISYMMETRIC GEOMETRIES
In 1D axisymmetric geometries, the temperature is assumed to be constant in the
out-of-plane direction (z-direction with default spatial coordinate names) in addition
to the axisymmetry ( φ -coordinate with default spatial coordinate names). The
equation for heat transfer in solids, Equation 6-12 is replaced by

∂T
( 2πrd z )ρC p ------- + ∇ ⋅ q = ( 2πrd z )Q + q 0 (4-147)
∂t

where dz is the thickness of the domain in the z-direction. The equation for heat
transfer in fluids, Equation 6-4, is replaced by

∂T
( 2πrd z )ρC p ------- + ( 2πrd z )ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = ( 2πrd z )Q + q 0 (4-148)
∂t

Here, the conductive heat flux, q, becomes

q = – ( 2πrd z )k∇T

1D GEOMETRIES
In 1D geometries, the temperature is assumed to be constant in the radial direction.
The equation for heat transfer in solids, Equation 6-12 is replaced by

∂T
A c ρC p ------- + ∇ ⋅ q = A c Q + q 0 (4-149)
∂t

where Ac is the cross section of the domain in the plane perpendicular to the 1D
geometry. The equation for heat transfer in fluids, Equation 6-4, is replaced by

∂T
A c ρC p ------- + A c ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = A c Q + q 0 (4-150)
∂t

Here, the conductive heat flux, q, becomes

268 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 q = – A c k∇T

Out-of-plane flux conditions would apply to the exterior boundaries of the domain if
the 1D geometry was seen as a cylinder. With the geometry reduction process, this
heat flux condition is mathematically expressed using the cross section perimeter, Pc,
as in:

q 0 = P c q 0, z

where q0, z is the heat flux density distributed along the cross section perimeter.

OUT-OF-PLANE HEAT TRANSFER | 269

 The Heat Transfer Coefficients
One of the most common boundary conditions when modeling heat transfer is
convective cooling or heating whereby a fluid cools or heats a surface by natural or
forced convection. In principle, it is possible to model this process in two ways:

• Using a heat transfer coefficient on the surfaces

• Extending the model to describe the flow and heat transfer in the surrounding fluid

The second approach is the most accurate if the geometry or the external flow is
complicated. The Heat Transfer Module includes the Conjugate Heat Transfer
predefined multiphysics coupling and the CFD Module includes the Nonisothermal
Flow predefined multiphysics coupling for this purpose. However, such a simulation
can become costly, both in terms of computational time and memory requirement.

The first method is simple, yet powerful and efficient. The convective heat flux on the
boundaries in contact with the fluid is then modeled as being proportional to the
temperature difference across a fictitious thermal boundary layer. Mathematically, the
heat flux is described by the equation

– n ⋅ q = h ( T ext – T )

where h is a heat transfer coefficient and Text the temperature of the external fluid far
from the boundary.

The main difficulty in using heat transfer coefficients is in calculating or specifying the
appropriate value of the h coefficient. That coefficient depends on the fluid’s material
properties, and the surface temperature — and, for forced convection, also on the
fluid’s flow rate. In addition, the geometrical configuration affects the coefficient. The
Heat Transfer interface has built-in functions for the heat transfer coefficients. For
most engineering purposes, the use of such coefficients is an accurate and numerically
efficient modeling approach.

In this section:

• Defining the Heat Transfer Coefficients

• Nature of the Flow — The Grashof Number
• Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Natural Convection
• Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Natural Convection
• Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Forced Convection

270 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

• Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Forced Convection
• Using the Heat and Mass Transfer Analogy for the Evaluation of Moisture Transfer
Coefficients

Defining the Heat Transfer Coefficients

It is possible to divide the convective heat flux into four main categories depending on
the type of convection condition (natural or forced) and on the type of geometry
(internal or external flow). In addition, these cases can all experience either laminar or
turbulent flow conditions, resulting in eight types of convection, as in Figure 4-18.
Natural Forced

External

Internal

Laminar Flow

Turbulent Flow

Figure 4-18: The eight categories of convective heat flux.

The difference between natural and forced convection is that in the forced convection
an external force such as a fan creates the flow. In natural convection, buoyancy forces
induced by temperature differences together with the thermal expansion of the fluid
drive the flow.

Heat transfer books generally contain a large set of empirical and theoretical
correlations for h coefficients. This module includes a subset of them. The expressions
are based on the following set of dimensionless numbers:

• The Nusselt number, NuL = hL ⁄ k

• The Reynolds number, ReL = ρUL ⁄ μ

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 271

 • The Prandtl number, Pr = μCp ⁄ k
• The Rayleigh number, RaL = GrLPr

where

• h is the heat transfer coefficient (SI unit: W/(m2·K))

• L is the characteristic length (SI unit: m)
• ΔT is the temperature difference between the surface and the external fluid bulk
(SI unit: K)
• g is the acceleration of gravity (SI unit: m/s2)
• k is the thermal conductivity of the fluid (SI unit: W/(m·K))
• ρ is the fluid density (SI unit: kg/m3)
• U is the bulk velocity (SI unit: m/s)
• μ is the dynamic viscosity (SI unit: Pa·s)
• Cp is the heat capacity at constant pressure of the fluid (SI unit: J/(kg·K))

Further, GrL refers to the Grashof number, which is the squared ratio of the viscous
time scale to the buoyancy time scale multiplied by the Reynolds number.

Nature of the Flow — The Grashof Number

In cases of externally driven flow, such as forced convection, the nature of the flow is
characterized by the Reynolds number, Re, which describes the ratio of the inertial
forces to the viscous forces. However, the velocity scale is initially unknown for
internally driven flows such as natural convection. In such cases the Grashof number,
Gr, characterizes the flow. It describes the ratio of the time scales for viscous diffusion
in the fluid and the internal driving force (the buoyancy force). Like the Reynolds
number it requires the definition of a length scale, the fluid’s physical properties, and
the density scale (densities difference).

The Grashof number, Gr, is defined as:

3
gρ ( ρ ext – ρ s )L
Gr L = -----------------------------------------
2
μ

where g is the acceleration of gravity, ρs denotes the density of the hot surface, ρext
equals the free stream density, L is the length scale, μ represents the fluid’s dynamic
viscosity, and ρ its density.

272 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

This expression of the Grashof number accounts for the all the density variations in the
fluid. This applies to moist air, for which the density depends on temperature and
vapor concentration.

When the density depends on temperature only, in dry air for example, the Grashof
number is well approximated by using the fluid’s coefficient of thermal expansion αp
(SI unit: 1/K):

3
gα p ( T s – T ext )L
Gr L = ----------------------------------------------
2
(μ ⁄ ρ)

where g is the acceleration of gravity, Ts denotes the temperature of the hot surface,
Text equals the free stream temperature, L is the length scale, μ represents the fluid’s
dynamic viscosity, and ρ its density.

In general, the coefficient of thermal expansion αp is given by

1 ∂ρ
α p = – ---  -------
ρ ∂T p

which for an ideal gas reduces to

1
α p = ----
T

The transition from laminar to turbulent flow occurs at a Gr value of 109; the flow is
turbulent for larger values.

The Rayleigh number, Ra, is another indicator of the regime. It is similar to the
Grashof number except that it accounts for the thermal diffusivity: Ra = Pr Gr. A small
value of the Ra number indicates that the conduction dominates. It such case using
heat transfer coefficients to model convective heat transfer is not relevant. Instead,
modeling the fluid as immobile is likely to be accurate.

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 273

 Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Natural Convection

VERTICAL WALL

Figure 4-19: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on a vertical wall.

The following correlations correspond to equations 9.26 and 9.27 in Ref. 18:


  1⁄4 
 --- k-  0.67Ra L 
 L  0.68 +  ---------------------------------------------------------- if Ra L ≤ 10 9
9 / 16 4 / 9
 1 +  -------------------  
0.492k
   μC p   
 
h =  (4-151)
  1⁄6 2
 k 0.387Ra L 
 ----  0.825 + ------------------------------------------------------------
/ /
- if Ra L > 10 9
 L  1 +  0.492k -------------------
9 16
 8 27

    μC p   


where the height of the wall, L, is a correlation input.

The Rayleigh number is defined as:

2
gα p ρ C p T – T ext L 3
Ra L = -------------------------------------------------------- (4-152)
kμ

if the density depends on temperature only, or as:

gρC p ρ ext – ρ s L 3
Ra L = ----------------------------------------------- (4-153)
kμ

if the density depends on other parameters.

274 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

All material properties are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρs, which is evaluated at
the wall temperature, T, and g is the acceleration of gravity equal to 9.81 m/s2. This
correlation is valid for 104≤ RaL ≤ 1013.

INCLINED WALL

Figure 4-20: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on an inclined wall.

The following correlations correspond to equations 9.26 and 9.27 in Ref. 18 (the
same as for a vertical wall):


  
 --- k-  0.67 ( cos ϕRa L ) 1 / 4 
 L  0.68 + ---------------------------------------------------------
   9 / 16 4 / 9

- if Ra L ≤ 10 9
  0.492k
------------------- 
   1 +  μC p   
h =  (4-154)
  1⁄6 2
 k 0.387Ra L 
 ----  0.825 + ------------------------------------------------------------
9 / 16 8 / 27
- if Ra L > 10 9
 L  1 +  0.492k -------------------   
    μC p   


where the length of the wall, L, is a correlation input and ϕ is the tilt angle (the angle
between the wall and the vertical direction; ϕ = 0 for vertical walls). These
correlations are valid for −60° < ϕ < 60° and 104≤ RaL ≤ 1013.

The definition of the Raleigh number, RaL, is analogous to the one for vertical walls
and is given by the following:

2
gα p ρ C p T – T ext L 3
Ra L = -------------------------------------------------------- (4-155)
kμ

if the density depends on temperature only, or as:

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 275

 gρC p ρ ext – ρ s L 3
Ra L = ----------------------------------------------- (4-156)
kμ

if the density depends on other parameters.

g denotes the gravitational acceleration, equal to 9.81 m/s2.

For turbulent flow, 1 is used instead of cos ϕ in the expression for h, because this gives
better accuracy (see Ref. 38).

According to Ref. 18, correlations for inclined walls are only satisfactory
for the top side of a cold plate or the down face of a hot plate. Hence,
these correlations are not recommended for the bottom side of a cold face
and for the top side of a hot plate.

The laminar-turbulent transition depends on ϕ (see Ref. 38). Unfortunately, little

data is available about transition. There is some data available in Ref. 38 but this data
is only approximate, according to the authors. In addition, data is only provided for
water (Pr around 6). For this reason, the flow is defined as turbulent, independently
of the ϕ value, when

Ra L > 10 9

All material properties are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρswhich is evaluated at the
wall temperature, T.

HORIZONTAL PLATE, UPSIDE

Figure 4-21: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on the top surface of an horizontal
plate.

The following correlations correspond to equations 9.30–9.32 in Ref. 18 but can also
be found as equations 7.77 and 7.78 in Ref. 38.

276 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

If ρ < ρext, then


 k-
---
1⁄4
0.54Ra L if 10 4 ≤ Ra L ≤ 10 7
 L
h =  (4-157)
 k-
--- 1⁄3
0.15Ra L if 10 7 ≤ Ra L ≤ 10 11
 L


while if ρ ≥ ρext, then

k 1⁄4
h = ---- 0.27Ra L if 10 5 ≤ Ra L ≤ 10 10 (4-158)
L

RaL is given by Equation 4-152 or Equation 4-153, and L, the characteristic length
(defined as area/perimeter, see Ref. 38) is a correlation input. The material data are
evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρswhich is evaluated at the wall temperature, T.

When the density depends only on temperature, the conditions ρ < ρext and ρ ≥ ρext
can be replaced by T > Text and T ≤ Text respectively.

HORIZONTAL PLATE, DOWNSIDE

Figure 4-22: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on the bottom surface of an
horizontal plate.

Equation 4-157 is used when ρ ≥ ρext (or T ≤ Text) and Equation 4-158 is used when
ρ < ρext (or T > Text). Otherwise it is the same implementation as for Horizontal Plate,
Upside.

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 277

 LONG HORIZONTAL CYLINDER

Figure 4-23: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on a long horizontal cylinder.

The following correlations correspond to equations 9.34 in Ref. 18. It is validated for
RaD ≤ 1012.

 1⁄6 2
k  0.387Ra D 
h = ----  0.6 + ---------------------------------------------------------
9 ⁄ 16 8 ⁄ 27
- (4-159)
D  1 +  ---------------
0.559  
   Pr   

Here D is the cylinder diameter and RaD is given by

2
gα p ρ C p T – T ext D 3
Ra D = ---------------------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on temperature only, or as:

gρC p ρ ext – ρ s D 3
Ra D = ------------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on other parameters.

The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρswhich is evaluated at the wall
temperature, T.

278 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

SPHERE

Figure 4-24: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on a sphere.

The following correlations correspond to equation 9.35 in Ref. 18. It is validated for
RaD ≤ 1011 and Pr ≥ 0.7.

 1⁄4 2
k  0.589Ra D 
h = ----  2 + ------------------------------------------------------
9 ⁄ 16 4 ⁄ 9
- (4-160)
D  1 +  ---------------
0.469  
   Pr   

Here D is the cylinder diameter and RaD is given by

2
gα p ρ C p T – T ext D 3
Ra D = ---------------------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on temperature only, or as:

gρC p ρ ext – ρ s D 3
Ra D = ------------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on other parameters.

The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρswhich is evaluated at the wall
temperature, T.

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 279

 VERTICAL THIN CYLINDER

Figure 4-25: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection on a vertical thin cylinder.

The following correlation corresponds to equation 7.83 in Ref. 38. It is validated only
for side walls of the thin cylinder (δT ≥ D), the horizontal disks (top and bottom)
should be treated as horizontal plates. If the boundary thin layer is much smaller than
D, vertical wall correlations should be used.

7Ra H Pr 1⁄4
4 ( 272 + 315Pr )H
h = -----  ---  ----------------------------------- + -----------------------------------------------
k 4
H  3  5 ( 20 + 21Pr ) 35 ( 64 + 63Pr )D 

where D is the cylinder diameter, H is the cylinder height, and RaH is given by

3
gα p T – T ext H
Ra H = -------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on temperature only, or as:

gρC p ρ ext – ρ s H 3
Ra H = ------------------------------------------------
kμ

if the density depends on other parameters.

The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2, except ρswhich is evaluated at the wall
temperature, T.

280 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Natural Convection

NARROW CHIMNEY, PARALLEL PLATES

Figure 4-26: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection in a parallel-plate narrow chimney.

If RaL < H ⁄ L, then

k 1
h = ----- ------ Ra L (4-161)
H 24

where the plate distance, L, and the chimney height, H, are correlation inputs
(equation 7.96 in Ref. 38). RaL is given by Equation 4-152 or Equation 4-153. The
material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2.

NARROW CHIMNEY, CIRCULAR TUBE

Figure 4-27: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the heat transfer
coefficient correlation applied to natural convection in a circular narrow chimney.

If RaD < H ⁄ D, then

k 1
h = ----- ---------- Ra D
H 128

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 281

 where the tube diameter, D, and the chimney height, H, are correlation inputs (table
7.2 in Ref. 38 with Dh = D). RaD is given by Equation 4-152 or Equation 4-153 with
L replaced by D. The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2.

Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Forced Convection

PLATE, AVERAGED TRANSFER COEFFICIENT

Figure 4-28: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the averaged heat
transfer coefficient correlation applied to forced convection on an horizontal plate.

This correlation is a combination of equations 7.33 and 7.41 in Ref. 18:

 1/3 1⁄2
 k- 0.3387Pr Re L
 2 --- ------------------------------------------------------
- if Re L ≤ 5 ⋅ 10 5
L 2/3 1/4
  0.0468
------------------
-  
h =
  1 +  Pr   (4-162)

 2 ---
k- 1 / 3 4⁄5
 L Pr ( 0.037Re L – 871 ) if Re L > 5 ⋅ 10
5

where Pr = μCp ⁄ k and ReL = ρUL ⁄ μ. The plate length, L, and the exterior velocity,
U, are correlation inputs. The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2.

282 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

PLATE, LOCAL TRANSFER COEFFICIENT

Figure 4-29: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the local heat
transfer coefficient correlation applied to forced convection on an horizontal plate.

This correlation corresponds to equations 5.79b and 5.131’ in Ref. 38:


 k
--- 0.332Pr 1 / 3 Re 1x ⁄ 2 if Re x ≤ 5 ⋅ 10 5
 x
h =  (4-163)
 k
--- 0.0296Pr 1 / 3 Re 4x ⁄ 5 if Re x > 5 ⋅ 10 5
 x


where Pr = μCp ⁄ k and Rex = ρUx ⁄ μ. The correlation inputs are x, the position along
the plate, and U, the exterior velocity. The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2.
To avoid division by zero when the position along the plate is located at the origin
point (x = 0), the implementation replaces k ⁄ x by k ⁄ max(x, √ε) where ε is the floating
point relative accuracy.

CYLINDER IN CROSS FLOW

Figure 4-30: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the averaged heat
transfer coefficient correlation applied to forced convection on a cylinder in cross flow.

This correlation is given by equation 7.54 in Ref. 18:

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 283

  1⁄2 
k 0.62Re D Pr 1 / 3  Re D  5 ⁄ 8 4 ⁄ 5
- 1 +  -------------------
h = ----  0.3 + ---------------------------------------------- -
D 0.4- 2 ⁄ 3 1 ⁄ 4   282000   if Re D Pr ≤ 0.2 (4-164)
 1 +  --------
   Pr   

where Pr = μCp ⁄ k and ReD = ρUD ⁄ μ. The cylinder diameter, D, and the exterior
velocity, U, are correlation inputs. The material data are evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2.

SPHERE

Figure 4-31: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the averaged heat
transfer coefficient correlation applied to forced convection on a sphere.

This correlation corresponds to equation 7.56 in Ref. 18:

0.4 μ 1 ⁄ 4
h = ----  2 + ( 0.4Re D + 0.06Re D )Pr  ----- 
k 1⁄2 2⁄3
(4-165)
D  μ s 


 3.5 ≤ Re D ≤ 7.6 ⋅ 10
4

if  0.71 ≤ P r ≤ 380
 μ
 1 ≤ ------------- ≤ 3.2
 μ(T )

where Pr = μCp ⁄ k and ReD = ρUD ⁄ μ. The sphere diameter, D, and the exterior
velocity, U, are correlation inputs. All material data are evaluated at Text except μs,
which is evaluated at the wall temperature, T.

284 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Forced Convection

ISOTHERMAL TUBE

Figure 4-32: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the averaged heat
transfer coefficient correlation applied to forced convection in an isothermal circular tube.

This correlation corresponds to equations 8.55 and 8.61 in Ref. 18:


 k-
--- 3.66 if Re D ≤ 2500
 D
h =  (4-166)
 ---
k- μ  0.14
4 / 5 Pr n  -----
0.027Re D if Re D > 2500
 D  μ s


where Pr = μCp ⁄ k, ReD = ρUextD ⁄ μ and n = 0.3 if T < Text and n = 0.4 if T ≥ Text.
D (the tube diameter) and the velocity U are correlation inputs. All material data are
evaluated at (T + Text) ⁄ 2 except μs, which is evaluated at the wall temperature, T.

Using the Heat and Mass Transfer Analogy for the Evaluation of
Moisture Transfer Coefficients
In the same way that the heat flux is described by the equation

– n ⋅ q = h ( T ext – T )

where h is a heat transfer coefficient and Text the temperature of the external fluid far
from the boundary, the moisture flux is described by the equation

– n ⋅ g = M v h m ( c v, ext – c v ) (4-167)

where Mv is the molar mass of water vapor, hm is a moisture transfer coefficient and
cv,ext the vapor concentration of the external fluid far from the boundary.

THE HEAT TRANSFER COEFFICIENTS | 285

 In Ref. 18, the heat and mass boundary layer analogy is used to express the moisture
transfer coefficient hm as a function of the heat transfer coefficient h:

n n
h m = --------------- h = ----  --------------- h
DLe D k
(4-168)
k k  ρC p D

where Le is the Lewis number, D is the vapor diffusion coefficient in air, k is the
thermal conductivity, ρ is the density, and Cp is the specific heat capacity of the external
fluid evaluated at the same conditions as those specified in the heat transfer correlation
used to compute h.

This relation is valid for laminar and turbulent external flows, and the value n=1/3 is
suggested as a reasonable assumption for most applications in Ref. 18.

Note that the analogy applies only when the density variations due to temperature and
vapor concentration have the same trend. In other words, if the hot air is heavier than
cold air due to the moisture, the correlations are not suitable. Else, all the correlations
described in Heat Transfer Coefficients — External Natural Convection, Heat Transfer
Coefficients — Internal Natural Convection, Heat Transfer Coefficients — External
Forced Convection, and Heat Transfer Coefficients — Internal Forced Convection
may be used to evaluate a moisture transfer coefficient hm to be used in
Equation 4-167.

286 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

E qui v a le nt T herm al Con d u c t i v i t y
Correlations
The Nusselt number Nu is the ratio of total heat flux to conductive heat flux. If the
fluid flow is not solved, the heat equation can still use an equivalent conductivity to
account for the convective heat flux in the conductive part. The conductivity is
increased according to Nu to account for the contribution of the convective heat flux.

See Convectively Enhanced Conductivity node.

Correlations giving Nu from various material properties for two configurations of

rectangular enclosures are described below. These correlations are based on the
Rayleigh number

2
ρ g αp Cp
Ra = --------------------------- ΔTL 3
μk

with αp the coefficient of thermal expansion defined as

1 ∂ρ
α p = – ---  -------
ρ  ∂T p

where ρ is the fluid density, g the gravitational acceleration, Cp the heat capacity, μ the
dynamic viscosity, k the thermal conductivity coefficient, ΔT the temperature
difference through the cavity, and L the characteristic dimension of the cavity. The
temperature difference through the cavity may be unknown a priori. In this case, ΔT
can be defined using the Automatic option. The Automatic option defines a minimum
and a maximum operator on the external boundaries of the domains where the
correlation is used. As this option is designed for fluid domains where no heat source
is defined, the difference between the maximum and the minimum of the temperature
corresponds to the temperature difference through the cavity.

Note that only thermally induced variations of the density are accounted for in this
definition. In moist air in particular, the natural convection due to vapor concentration
is neglected.

EQUIVALENT THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY CORRELATIONS | 287

 Horizontal Cavity With Bottom Heating

Figure 4-33: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the equivalent
thermal conductivity correlation applied to an horizontal cavity heated from below.

The following correlation corresponds to equation 9.49 in Ref. 18. It is validated for
3·105 ≤ RaH ≤ 7·109:

1 / 3 Pr 0.074
Nu = 0.069Ra H (4-169)

where RaH is computed from the height H of the cavity and the temperatures T1 and
T2 of the bottom and top walls, and Pr = μCp ⁄ k. The material data are evaluated at
(T1 + T2) ⁄ 2.

Vertical Cavity With Sidewall Heating

Figure 4-34: Schematic representation of geometry and parameters for the equivalent
thermal conductivity correlation applied to a vertical cavity with sidewall heating.

288 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

The following correlations correspond to equations 9.50, 9.51, and 9.52 in Ref. 18:
–3 5 3 PrRa L
• If 1 ≤ H ⁄ L ≤ 2, 10 ≤ Pr ≤ 10 , and 10 ≤ ---------------------- :
0.2 + Pr
0.29
Nu = 0.18  ---------------------- Ra L
Pr
(4-170)
0.2 + Pr

• If 2 ≤ H ⁄ L ≤ 10, Pr ≤ 105, and 103 ≤ RaL ≤ 1010:

0.28 H – 1 ⁄ 4
Nu = 0.22  ---------------------- Ra L  -----
Pr
 L (4-171)
0.2 + Pr

• If 10 ≤ H ⁄ L ≤ 40, 1 ≤ Pr ≤ 2 ⋅ 104, and 104 ≤ RaL ≤ 107:

1⁄4 0.012  H – 0.3

Nu = 0.42Ra L Pr ----- (4-172)
 L

where H is the height of the cavity, L is the distance between the side plates, RaL is
computed from L and the temperatures T1 and T2 of the side walls, and Pr = μCp ⁄ k.
The material data are evaluated at (T1 + T2) ⁄ 2.

EQUIVALENT THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY CORRELATIONS | 289

 Temperature Dependence of Surface
T e ns i o n
The variation of the surface tension σ (SI unit: N/m) with temperature at fluid
interfaces must be taken into account for the computation of phenomena such as
Marangoni effect. These temperature dependencies are available in the form of a
coefficient library for a set of liquid-gas interfaces.

For a liquid water-air interface, the following quadratic relation is used:

–7 2 –5 –2
σ = – 2.3519705 ⋅ 10 T – 1.63350014 ⋅ 10 T + 9.77001279 ⋅ 10

where T (SI unit: K) is the temperature.

In other cases, a linear relation is used instead:

σ = A ( T – T0 ) + B

where T0 is a reference temperature taken at 0°C (273.15 K) and the coefficients A (SI
unit: N/(m·K)) and B (SI unit: N/m) are given in the following table for some
liquid-gas interfaces:
TABLE 4-4: COEFFICIENTS OF SURFACE TENSION

INTERFACE A B REFERENCE

Acetone - Air −1.120 ⋅ 10-4 2.626 ⋅ 10-2 Ref. 39

Acetic Acid - Air −0.994 ⋅ 10-4 2.958 ⋅ 10-2 Ref. 39
-4
Ethanol - Air −0.832 ⋅ 10 2.405 ⋅ 10-2 Ref. 39
-4 -2
Toluene - Air −1.189 ⋅ 10 3.09 ⋅ 10 Ref. 39
-4 -2
Diethyl Ether - Air −0.908 ⋅ 10 1.892 ⋅ 10 Ref. 39
-4 -2
Glycerol - Air −0.885 ⋅ 10 6.517 ⋅ 10 Ref. 39
Heptane - Nitrogen −0.980 ⋅ 10-4 2.21 ⋅ 10-2 Ref. 40
-4 -2
Mercury - Mercury (Vapor) −2.049 ⋅ 10 49.06 ⋅ 10 Ref. 40
-4 -2
Ethylene Glycol - Ethylene −0.890 ⋅ 10 5.021 ⋅ 10 Ref. 40
Glycol (Vapor)

More data can be found in Ref. 39 and Ref. 40.

290 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Heat Flux and Heat Balance
The concept of heat flux is not as simple as it first might seem. The reason is that heat
is not a conserved quantity. Instead, the conserved quantity is the total energy. Hence,
there is both a heat flux and an energy flux that are similar but not identical.

This section briefly describes the theory for the variables for Total Heat Flux and
Energy Flux, used when computing Heat and Energy Balance. The definitions of these
postprocessing variables do not affect the computational results, only variables
available for results analysis and visualization.

In this section:

• Total Heat Flux and Energy Flux

• Heat and Energy Balance

Total Heat Flux and Energy Flux

TOTAL HEAT FLUX

The total heat flux vector is defined as (Ref. 5):

q tot = ρuE + q + q r (4-173)

where E is the internal energy. It is the sum of convective heat flux, ρuE, conductive
heat flux, q, and radiative heat flux, qr. Hence, the total heat flux accounts for all
three kinds of heat transfer described in The Physical Mechanisms under Heat
Transfer. Recall that the internal energy is related to the enthalpy, H, via the following
for a fluid (see Thermodynamic Description of Heat Transfer):

p
E = H – ---
ρ

or the following for a solid:

1
E = H + --- P:F
ρ

The total heat flux vector, qtot, is more suited to check the heat balance as described
in the next section Heat and Energy Balance.

HEAT FLUX AND HEAT BALANCE | 291

 TOTAL ENERGY FLUX
The total energy flux is equal to:

e tot = ρu  --- u ⋅ u + ρu ( E + Ψ ) + q + q r – σu

1
2

Again, convective heat flux, ρuE, conductive heat flux, q, and radiative heat flux, qr
are accounted in the sum. The additional terms that complete the total energy flux are
the convected kinetic energy, ρu(u ⋅ u ⁄ 2), force potential energy, ρuΨ, and stress,
−σu. For a fluid, this expression becomes (Ref. 5, chapter 3.5):

e tot = ρu  --- u ⋅ u + ρu ( E + Ψ ) + q + q r – ( – pI + τ )u

1
2

Introducing the total internal energy, E0, and total enthalpy, H0:

1 1
E 0 = E + --- u ⋅ u H 0 = H + --- u ⋅ u
2 2

leads to the following equivalent expression involving total enthalpy:

e tot = ρu ( H 0 + Ψ ) + q + q r – τu

The potential Ψ has a simple form in some special cases — for example, for
gravitational effects (Chapter 1.4 in Ref. 37) — but it is in general rather difficult to
derive. Potential energy is therefore often excluded and the total energy flux is
approximated by

e tot = ρuE 0 + q + q r – σu (4-174)

The total energy flux vector, etot, is more suited to check the energy balance as
described in the next section Heat and Energy Balance.

Heat and Energy Balance

HEAT BALANCE
This section assumes a heat transfer model that only solves for the temperature T. In
particular, for a fluid, the velocity field u and pressure field p are user defined or
computed from another physics interface. In this case, the heat balance in a domain
follows the identity below (chapter 11.2 in Ref. 5), derived from Equation 4-11. It
expresses the idea that internal energy variations in time and net heat flux are balanced
by external heat and work sources.

292 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 d
dt Ω ρE dv + ∂Ω ext
q tot ⋅ n ds = Q Int – W str, Int (4-175)

The different variables in this formula are defined in Total Heat Flux and Energy Flux.
For this equality to be true, the provided dependent variables (velocity field u and
pressure field p for the Navier-Stokes equations) must satisfy a mass and a momentum
conservation equation. The dissipation power, Wstr, Int, contains both pressure work
and viscous dissipation in fluids. The heat sources QInt include domain sources,
interior boundary, edge and point sources, and radiative source at interior boundaries.

In 2D and 3D components if isolated point or edge source is not adjacent

to a boundary, these are not included in QInt. In this case, these need to
be computed separately.

Equation 4-175 is more visually represented by the diagram of Figure 4-35 below.
Mechanical Losses: Wstr

Heat source: Q
∂E
Accumulated heat:
∂t

Net heat transfer: q tot = ρuE + q + q r

Figure 4-35: A heat balance diagram.

Several predefined variables are available in COMSOL Multiphysics to describe the

heat rates involved in the system heat balance. See Global Variables for their definition.

ENERGY BALANCE
When the temperature T is solved together with additional mass and momentum
equations, the total energy flux also becomes a conserved quantity and the following
equation holds (chapter 11.1 in Ref. 5):

d
dt Ω ρE0 dv + ∂Ω ext
e tot ⋅ n ds = Q Int + W Int (4-176)

HEAT FLUX AND HEAT BALANCE | 293

 The variables in this formula are defined in Total Heat Flux and Energy Flux.
Equation 4-176 is more visually represented by the diagram of Figure 4-36 below.

Heat source: Q

Work source: W
∂E 0
Accumulated energy:
∂t

Net energy transfer: e tot = ρuE 0 + q + q r – σu

Figure 4-36: An energy balance diagram.

Several predefined variables are available in COMSOL Multiphysics to describe the

energy rates involved in the system energy balance. See Global Variables for their
definition.

294 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

Frames for the Heat Transfer
Equations
In this section:

• Material and Spatial Frames

• Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames

Material and Spatial Frames

The heat equation can be formulated either in a spatial coordinate system, with
coordinate axes fixed in space, or in a material coordinate system, fixed to the material
in its reference configuration and following the material as it deforms. COMSOL
Multiphysics refers to these coordinate systems as the spatial frame and the material
frame. In the case of immobile and undeformed materials, these two frames coincide.

USE OF FRAMES
The spatial frame is well adapted to simulate heat transfer in liquids and gases, where
it is unreasonable to follow the state of individual material particles. The temperature
is computed at fixed positions in space.

In solids, the material frame is more convenient. The temperature is computed at

material particles uniquely identified by their position in some given reference
configuration. It makes in particular the anisotropic material properties (thermal
conductivity for example) independent of the current spatial orientation of the
material.

In the heat transfer interfaces, the variables and equations are all defined in the spatial
frame, and depending on the features, the user inputs may be defined in the material
or spatial frame. Hence, they must be internally converted into the spatial frame if
some deformation occurs.

POSITION VECTORS AND DEFORMATION GRADIENT

The position vector in the physical space is identified by the lowercase symbol x and
lowercase letters x, y, and z for each coordinate (or r, ϕ, and z in axisymmetric
components). After a given transformation, the position of an elementary volume is
modified in the spatial frame but not in the material frame. The position vector in the

FRAMES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER EQUATIONS | 295

 this material frame is denoted by the uppercase symbol X and uppercase letters X, Y,
and Z for each coordinate (or R, Φ, and Z in axisymmetric components).

The relation between x and X is carried by the deformation gradient:

∂x ∂x ∂x
∂X ∂Y ∂Z
F = ∂y ∂y ∂y (4-177)
∂X ∂Y ∂Z
∂z ∂z ∂z
∂X ∂Y ∂Z

It relates elementary distances dx and dX in the domain, expressed in material and

spatial frames, according to:

dx = FdX (4-178)

The determinant of the deformation gradient, det(F), is the volume ratio field. In
COMSOL Multiphysics, det(F) should always be strictly positive. Otherwise, the
negative value is likely to be caused by an inverted mesh during the resolution of the
model since it corresponds to a mathematical reflection operation.

The deformation gradient tensor and its determinant are essential in the conversion of
physical quantities presented in the next paragraphs between material and spatial
frames.

Note: In COMSOL Multiphysics, the variables spatial.F11, spatial.F12, …,

store the coefficient of the transpose of the deformation gradient tensor F.

• About Frames in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames

This section explains how the user inputs are converted between material and spatial
frames. The conversion depends on the dimension of the variables (scalars, vectors, or
tensors) and on the density order.

296 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

As described in the previous paragraph Material and Spatial Frames, lowercase letters
are used to denote the spatial frame coordinates while uppercase letters denote the
material frame coordinates. In the followings, a physical quantity A will be referred to
as A(x, y, z) in the spatial frame and to as A(X, Y, Z) in the material frame.

The equations solved by the heat transfer interfaces are written in the spatial frame.
When an input is specified in the material frame, conversion is necessary to deduce
A(x, y, z) from A(X, Y, Z).

DENSITY, HEAT SOURCE, HEAT FLUX

In heat transfer, the following variables are relative scalars of weight one (also called
scalar densities):

• Mass density, ρ (SI unit: kg/m3),

• Heat source, Q0 (SI unit: W/m3),
• Production/absorption coefficient, qs (SI unit: W/(m3·K)),
• Heat flux, q0 (SI unit: W/m2),
• Heat transfer coefficient, h (SI unit: W/(m2·K)).

For all these variables, the conversion between material and spatial frame follows the
relation:

A ( X, Y , Z )
A ( x, y, z ) = ----------------------
det(F)

This way, the integral of volumetric quantities over the domain, such as the mass
density, is invariant between frames:

Ω ρ( X, Y, Z ) dτ0 = Ω ρ( x, y, z ) det(F) dτ0 = Ω ρ( x, y, z ) dτ

0 0

In these equalities, Ω0 and Ω denote the same domain but represented in material or
in spatial frame, respectively. As expected, the same mass is found by integrating
ρ(X, Y, Z) over the domain in the material frame or by integrating ρ(x, y, z) over the
domain in the spatial frame. The same invariance principle applies to quantities per unit
area, in particular heat flux and heat transfer coefficient:

∂Ω h( X, Y, Z ) ds0 = ∂Ω h( x, y, z ) det(F) ds0 = ∂Ω h( x, y, z ) ds

0 0

Here, ∂Ω0 and ∂Ω are the boundaries of the same domain in material and spatial
frames, respectively.

FRAMES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER EQUATIONS | 297

 VELOCITY
The relationship between the velocity vectors in material and spatial frames, u(X, Y, Z)
and u(x, y, z), is

u ( x, y, z ) = Fu ( X, Y, Z )

This is directly deduced from the differential relation of Equation 4-178.

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY
Thermal conductivity, k, is a tensor density. The relationship between the value on the
spatial frame and the material frame is:

1 T
k ( x, y, z ) = ------------------- Fk ( X, Y, Z ) F
det ( F )

With this relation, and recalling that

T
n ( X, Y, Z ) = F n ( x, y, z )

T
∇ ( X, Y, Z ) T = F ∇ ( x, y, z ) T

the total conductive heat flux through a boundary, computed in both frames according
to the integrals below, gives the same result:

∂Ω –k( X, Y, Z ) ∇( X, Y, Z ) T ⋅ n( X, Y, Z ) ds0 = ∂Ω –k( x, y, z ) ∇( x, y, z ) T ⋅ n( x, yz ) ds

0

Here, ∂Ω0 and ∂Ω are the boundaries of the same domain in material and spatial
frames, respectively.

THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF A LAYER

The same transformations are applied to thermal conductivity but with different
transformation matrices. The deformation gradient tensor depends on the layer type:

• When the layer is resistive, the deformation gradient tensor Fxdim is equal to the
deformation gradient tensor F defined in Equation 4-177.
• When the layer is conductive, the deformation gradient tensor Ft is defined using
tangential derivatives as follows:

298 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

 xT X xT Y xT Z
F t = yT X yT Y yT Z
zT X zT Y zT Z

where xTX corresponds to the tangential derivative x with respect to X, and so on.
• When the layer is an extra dimension, the deformation gradient tensor Fxdim is
defined as follows:

xT X + n x n X xT Y + n x n Y xT Z + n x n Z
F xdim = yT X + n y n X yT Y + n y n Y yT Z + n y n Z
zT X + n z n X zT Y + n z n Y zT Z + n z n Z

where xTX corresponds to the tangential derivative x with respect to X, and so on.
The (nx, ny, nz) vector corresponds to the normal vector in the spatial frame, and
the (nX, nY, nZ) vector corresponds to the normal vector in the material frame.

TIME DERIVATIVE
Partial differential equations often involve time derivative of a physical quantity such
as temperature or internal energy in heat transfer. The variations of such state variables
during an elementary time step are studied for a same elementary volume that could
be subjected to spatial transformations. The material derivative, denoted d ⁄ dt, is the
derivation operator used in such cases. The following relation defines the material
derivative in the spatial frame.

d ∂
= + u ( x, y, z ) ⋅ ∇ ( x, y, z )
dt ∂t

The right-hand side of this relation shows a new term u ⋅ ∇ corresponding to

convection in the case of fluids, or convected quantity by translational motion of a
solid.

• About Frames in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

FRAMES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER EQUATIONS | 299

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37. M. Kaviany, Principles of Convective Heat Transfer, 2nd ed., Springer, 2001.

38. A. Bejan, Heat Transfer, John Wiley & Sons, 1993.

39. Tables of Physical & Chemical Constants (16th edition 1995). 2.2.5 Surface
tension. Kaye & Laby Online. Version 1.0 (2005), www.kayelaby.npl.co.uk

40. J.J. Jasper, “The Surface Tension of Pure Liquid Compounds”, J. Phys. Chem.
Ref. Data, vol. 1, pp. 841–1010, 1972.

302 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE

41. G.K. Batchelor, An Introduction to Fluid Dynamics, Cambridge University
Press, 2000.

42. C. P. Thurgood, A. Pollard and H. A. Becker, “The TN quadrature set for the
discrete ordinates method,” J. Heat Transfer, vol. 117, pp. 1068–1070, 1995.

43. M. A. Badri, P. Jolivet, B. Rousseau, S. Le Corre, H. Digonnet and Y. Favennec,

“Vectorial finite elements for solving the radiative transfer equation,” Journal of
Quantitative Spectroscopy and Radiative Transfer, vol. 212, pp. 59–74, 2018.

REFERENCES | 303
304 | CHAPTER 4: THEORY FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE
 5

The Heat Transfer Module Interfaces

The Heat Transfer Module includes several physics interfaces used to compute the
temperature field, the radiative intensity field, or the relative humidity field:
TABLE 5-1: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

INTERFACE TAG VERSIONS

Heat Transfer ht Heat Transfer in Solids

Heat Transfer in Fluids
Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids
Bioheat Transfer
Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Heat Transfer in Building Materials
Heat Transfer in Moist Air
Heat Transfer in Shells htlsh Heat Transfer in Shells
Heat Transfer in Films
Heat Transfer in Fractures
Surface-to-Surface rad Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Radiation
Radiation in rpm Radiation in Participating Media
Participating Media

305
 TABLE 5-1: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

INTERFACE TAG VERSIONS

Radiation in rasm Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media

Absorbing-Scattering
Media
Radiative Beam in rbam Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
Absorbing Media
Moisture Transport mt Moisture Transport in Air
Moisture Transport in Building Materials
See also The Heat Transfer in Pipes Interface (htp) in the Pipe Flow Module User’s
Guide.

In this chapter:

• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

• The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface
• The Bioheat Transfer Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Films Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface
• The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface
• The Radiation in Participating Media Interface
• The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface
• The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface
• The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface
• The Moisture Transport in Air Interface

See also the Multiphysics Interfaces.

306 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

About the Heat Transfer Interfaces
The Heat Transfer Module includes the following interfaces:

• Heat Transfer (with several versions)

• Heat Transfer in Shells (with several versions)
• Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Radiation in Participating Media
• Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
• Radiation with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
• Moisture Transport (with several versions)

They are used to compute the temperature field, the radiative intensity field, and the
relative humidity field.

The multiphysics interfaces also compute other physical fields like velocity, pressure, or
electromagnetic fields, depending on the available COMSOL products. See
Multiphysics Interfaces.

The main dependent variable is the temperature, T.

The various kinds of Heat Transfer interfaces and the thermal multiphysics couplings
can be used for modeling heat transfer by conduction, convection, or radiation, as well
as conjugate heat transfer, evaporation, and electromagnetic heating.

Space Dimensions
The physics interfaces are available in 1D, 2D, and 3D and for axisymmetric
components with cylindrical coordinates in 1D and 2D.

All the interfaces except Heat Transfer in Shells apply in domains, with features
available at each geometric level (volumes, surfaces, edges, and points).

Study Types
Stationary, time-dependent, and frequency domain studies are available with the Heat
Transfer interfaces.

You can consider a heat transfer problem as stationary if the temperature field is
independent of time at each point. The system is said to be at thermal equilibrium. It

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 307

 happens when the conditions are independent of time or vary on a time scale large
enough so that they can be approximated as constant. This type of study can be used
as an initial step for a time-dependent analysis.

For other cases, use a time-dependent or a frequency domain study.

Study and Study Step Types in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual

Versions of the Heat Transfer Physics Interface

The versions of the Heat Transfer physics interface (ht) are:

• The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface

• The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface
• The Bioheat Transfer Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface
After selecting a version, default nodes are added under the main node, which then
defines which version of the Heat Transfer interface is added. Depending on the
version of the physics interface selected, the default nodes vary. For example:

• If Heat Transfer in Solids ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Solids (ht) interface is

added with a default Solid model.
• If Heat Transfer in Fluids ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Fluids (ht) interface is
added with a default Fluid model.
• If Heat Transfer in Solids in Fluids ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids
(ht) interface is added with two default models: Solid (enabled by default) and Fluid
(empty selection by default).

Benefits of the Different Heat Transfer Interfaces

The benefit of the different versions of the Heat Transfer interface, with ht as the
common default name (see Heat Transfer Variables), is that it is easy to add the default

308 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

settings when selecting the physics interface. At any time, add a Fluid or Solid node from
the Physics toolbar — the functionality is always available.

Depending on the available COMSOL products, physics interface options

are also available from a Heat Transfer interface by selecting a specific
check box under the Physical Model section (for biological tissue, porous
media, shape memory alloy, or isothermal domain). See Table 5-2 and
Table 5-4 for a description of the interface options.

TABLE 5-2: THE HEAT TRANSFER (HT) INTERFACE OPTIONS

ICON NAME DEFAULT PHYSICAL MODEL

Heat Transfer in Solids No check box is selected.

Heat Transfer in Fluids No check box is selected.

Heat Transfer in Solids No check box is selected.

and Fluids
Bioheat Transfer The Heat transfer in biological tissue check box is
selected.
Heat Transfer in Porous The Heat Transfer in Porous Media check box is
Media selected (which enables the Porous matrix model
list).
Heat Transfer in Building The Heat Transfer in Porous Media check box is
Materials selected (which enables the Porous matrix model
list).
Also see The Heat Transfer in Pipes Interface in the Pipe Flow Module User’s Guide
for simulating heat transfer in pipe networks, including wall heat transfer to the
surroundings.

Versions of the Heat Transfer in Shells Physics Interface

The versions of the Heat Transfer in Shells physics interface (htlsh) are:

• The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

• The Heat Transfer in Films Interface
• The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 309

 After selecting a version, default nodes are added under the main node, which then
defines which version of the Heat Transfer in Shells interface is added. Depending on
the version of the physics interface selected, the default nodes vary:

• If Heat Transfer in Shells ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Shells (htlsh) interface is

added with a default Solid model.
• If Heat Transfer in Films ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Films (htlsh) interface is
added with a default Fluid model.

• If Heat Transfer in Fractures ( ) is selected, a Heat Transfer in Fractures (hltsh)

interface is added with a default Porous Medium model.

Benefits of the Different Heat Transfer in Shells Interfaces

The benefit of the different versions of the Heat Transfer in Shells interface, with
htlsh as the common default name (see Heat Transfer Variables), is that it is easy to
add the default settings when selecting the physics interface. At any time, add a Solid
node from the Physics toolbar — the functionality is always available.
TABLE 5-3: THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS (HTLSH) INTERFACE OPTIONS

ICON NAME DEFAULT PHYSICAL MODEL

Heat Transfer in Shells No check box is selected.

Heat Transfer in Films No check box is selected.

Heat Transfer in Fractures The Heat transfer in porous media check box is
selected.

The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections

Almost all physics nodes that you add in the Heat Transfer in Shells interface have
either a section named Layer Selection, or a section named Interface Selection. Selections
there interact with the standard selections of geometrical objects (boundaries and
edges) in order to provide a complete specification of where a material property or
boundary condition is to be applied.

The physics features can be of two, fundamentally different, types: those who act on
the layers themselves, and those who act on the interfaces between layers. The settings
for these two types of features are slightly different.

310 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Several selections are available in the Layer Selection and Interface Selection sections,
depending on the physics features. In the Layer drop-down list, you can select

• All layered materials.

• Any Layered Material Link defined under Materials in the current component.
• Any Layered Material Stack defined under Materials in the current component.
• Any Single Layer Material defined under Materials in the current component.

If you select All layered materials, you cannot control individual layers; the contribution
is given to all layers. All information is taken from the definitions made in the layered
material features (Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack, or Single Layer Material)
under Materials in the current component. This means that a single physics node can
accommodate several different stacking sequences. As geometrical selection, you can
use any object selected in any of the layered material features.

If you select an individual Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack, or Single Layer
Material, then you can only select geometrical objects which are part of the selections
of that feature. In most cases, you will get access to a list of check boxes where you can
further limit the contributions to individually selected layers or interfaces to which this
contribution is to be added.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

LAYER SELECTIONS
When a physics feature acts on layers, the interpretation of layer selections are:

• A boundary selection in the geometry corresponds to a domain contribution in the

selected layers.
• An edge selection in the geometry corresponds to boundary contributions on the
faces of the layers exposed to that edge.
This is illustrated by Figure 5-1 and Figure 5-2, where the patch at the lower left is the
actual shell, and the 3D sketch shows an expanded view of what it would represent in
the physical world.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 311

 Figure 5-1: Boundary selection with layers 2 and 5 selected.

Figure 5-2: Edge selection with layers 2 and 5 selected.

312 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

INTERFACE SELECTIONS
When a physics feature acts on interfaces, the interpretation of interface selections are:

• A boundary selection in the geometry corresponds to boundary contributions on

the selected interfaces.
• An edge selection in the geometry corresponds to edge contributions on the
interface edges parallel to the selected edge.
This is illustrated by Figure 5-3 and Figure 5-4, where the patch at the lower left is the
actual shell, and the 3D sketch shows an expanded view of what it would represent in
the physical world.

Figure 5-3: Boundary selection with interfaces ‘layer 2 - layer 3’ and ‘layer 5 up’ selected.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 313

 Figure 5-4: Edge selection with interfaces ‘layer 2 - layer 3’ and ‘layer 5 up’ selected.

Using the Extra Dimension Coordinates

It is possible to write expressions that are functions of the coordinates in the thickness
direction of the shell. Expressions based on the usual coordinates, like x, y, and z, are
evaluated on the reference surface (the meshed boundaries). In addition to this, the
locations in the through-thickness direction can be accessed by making explicit or
implicit use of the coordinates in the extra dimension.

The extra dimension coordinate has a name like x_llmat1_xdim. The middle part of
the coordinate name is derived from the tag of the layered material definition where it
is created; in this example a Layered Material Link.

Versions of the Moisture Transport Physics Interface

The versions of the Moisture Transport physics interface (mt) are:

• The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

• The Moisture Transport in Air Interface

314 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

After selecting a version, default nodes are added under the main node, which then
defines which version of the Moisture Transport interface is added. Depending on the
version of the physics interface selected, the default nodes vary:

• If Moisture Transport in Building Materials ( ) is selected, a Moisture Transport in

Building Materials (mt) interface is added with a default Building Material model.
• If Moisture Transport in Air ( ) is selected, a Moisture Transport in Air (mt) interface
is added with a default Moist Air model.

Benefits of the Different Moisture Transport Interfaces

The benefit of the different versions of the Moisture Transport interface, with mt as
the common default name (see Moisture Transport Variables), is that it is easy to add
the default settings when selecting the physics interface. At any time, add a Building
Material or a Moist Air node from the Physics toolbar — the functionality is always
available.

Additional physics options

Then, additional physics options are provided with the other interfaces and
multiphysics interfaces:
TABLE 5-4: ADDITIONAL HEAT TRANSFER PHYSICS OPTIONS

ICON NAME ID DEFAULT PHYSICAL MODEL

Laminar Flow (under the — See Table 5-2.

Conjugate Heat Transfer
branch)
Turbulent Flow, — See Table 5-2.
Algebraic yPlus,
Turbulent Flow, L-VEL,
Turbulent Flow, k-ε,
Turbulent Flow, Low Re
k-ε (under the Conjugate
Heat Transfer branch)
Surface-to-Surface rad No Physical Model section, but the
Radiation (under the Radiation Settings section is automatically
Radiation branch) available by default.
Radiation in Participating rpm No Physical Model section, but the
Media (under the Participating Media Settings section is
Radiation branch) automatically available by default.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 315

 TABLE 5-4: ADDITIONAL HEAT TRANSFER PHYSICS OPTIONS

ICON NAME ID DEFAULT PHYSICAL MODEL

Radiation in rasm No Physical Model section, but the

Absorbing-Scattering Participating Media Settings section is
Media (under the automatically available by default.
Radiation branch)
Radiative Beam in rbam No Physical Model section.
Absorbing Media (under
the Radiation branch)
Joule Heating (under the — No check boxes are selected under
Electromagnetic Heating Physical Model.
branch)
Heat and Moisture — See Table 5-2.
Local Thermal — See Table 5-2.
Non-Equilibrium
Thermoelectric Effect — No check boxes are selected under
Physical Model.
More turbulent flow interfaces are available under the Conjugate Heat Transfer branch
with the CFD Module:

• Turbulent Flow, Realizable k-ε

• Turbulent Flow, k-ω
• Turbulent Flow, SST
• Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras
• Turbulent Flow, v2-f

See The Conjugate Heat Transfer, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Interfaces in the
CFD Module User’s Guide for more details.

More interfaces are available under the Electromagnetic Heating branch with ACDC,
WaveOptics, and RF Modules.

See The Laser Heating Interface in the Wave Optics Module User’s Guide, The
Induction Heating Interface in the AC/DC Module User’s Guide, and The
Microwave Heating Interface in the RF Module User’s Guide for more details.

Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

316 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is ht.

PHYSICAL MODEL
In 2D and 1D axisymmetric components, set the Thickness dz, which is the thickness
of the domain in the out-of-plane direction. The default value is 1 m.

In 1D components, set the Cross sectional area Ac and the Cross sectional perimeter Pc
of the domain. Default values are 1 m2 and 2 πA c , respectively.

Set the Reference temperature Tref. It is used for the evaluation of the reference density
ρref when the Heat Transfer interface is coupled through Nonisothermal Flow
multiphysics coupling to a Fluid Flow interface with Compressibility set to
Incompressible. It is also used in the definition of the reference enthalpy Href which is
set to 0 J/kg at pref (1 atm) and Tref.

Some check boxes are also present in this section with certain COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Click to select any of the following check boxes to activate the versions of the ht
interface as described in Benefits of the Different Heat Transfer Interfaces:

• Select the Heat transfer in biological tissue check box to enable the Biological Tissue
feature.
• Selecting Isothermal domain provides support for isothermal domain modeling. See
Isothermal Domain Interface and Isothermal Domain.
• Select the Heat transfer in alloys check box to enable the Shape Memory Alloy
feature.
• Select the Heat Transfer in Porous Media check box to enable the Porous Medium,
Fracture, and Building Material features. See The Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Interface and The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 317

 CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
Under the Heat Transfer section, the Streamline diffusion check box is selected by
default and should remain selected for optimal performance for heat transfer in fluids
or other applications that include a convective or translational term. Crosswind diffusion
provides extra diffusion in regions with sharp gradients. The added diffusion is
orthogonal to the streamlines, so streamline diffusion and crosswind diffusion can be
used simultaneously. The Crosswind diffusion check box is also selected by default.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
Under the Heat Transfer section, the Isotropic diffusion check box is not selected by
default.

Heat Transfer Consistent and Inconsistent Stabilization Methods

DISCRETIZATION
To display all settings available in this section, click the Show button ( ) and select
Advanced Physics Options. You can choose the type and order of the shape functions
used for the variables solved by the Heat Transfer interfaces.

Temperature
For the temperature, you can choose not only the order of the discretization, but also
the type of shape functions: Lagrange or serendipity. For highly distorted elements,
Lagrange shape functions provide better accuracy than serendipity shape functions of
the same order. The serendipity shape functions will however give significant
reductions of the model size for a given mesh containing hexahedral, prism, or
quadrilateral elements. At first order, Lagrange and serendipity shape functions are the
same.

The default shape functions used for the temperature are Quadratic Lagrange for the
modeling of heat transfer in solids, and Linear for the modeling of heat transfer in
fluids. See the description of each version of the physics interface for more details.

Damaged Tissue Indicator

Whenever the Heat transfer in biological tissue check box under the Physical Model
section is selected and a Thermal Damage subnode is added under Biological Tissue, you
can choose the discretization level of the Damage tissue indicator shape function:
Constant (the default), Linear, Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

318 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Irreversible Transformation Indicator
When the Irreversible Transformation subfeature is added under a Solid node, you can
choose the discretization level of the Irreversible transformation indicator shape
function: Constant (the default), Linear, Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
The Heat Transfer interfaces have the dependent variable Temperature T. The
dependent variable names can be changed. Editing the name of a scalar dependent
variable changes both its field name and the dependent variable name. If a new field
name coincides with the name of another field of the same type, the fields share degrees
of freedom and dependent variable names. A new field name must not coincide with
the name of a field of another type or with a component name belonging to some other
field.

Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is htlsh.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials). If no layered
materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for creating a Single
Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the plus, next to the
Layer Selection setting).

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 319

 OUT-OF-PLANE THICKNESS
For 2D components, define the Out-of-plane thickness dz (SI unit: m) (see
Equation 4-50). The default is 1 m.

PHYSICAL MODEL
Select the Heat Transfer in Porous Media check box to enable the Porous Medium feature
for the modeling of porous media. This check box is selected by default in The Heat
Transfer in Fractures Interface.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Streamline diffusion check box is selected by default and should remain selected for
optimal performance for heat transfer in fluids or other applications that include a
convective or translational term. Crosswind diffusion provides extra diffusion in regions
with sharp gradients. The added diffusion is orthogonal to the streamlines, so
streamline diffusion and crosswind diffusion can be used simultaneously. The
Crosswind diffusion check box is also selected by default.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Isotropic diffusion check box is not selected by default.

Heat Transfer Consistent and Inconsistent Stabilization Methods

DISCRETIZATION
To display all settings available in this section, click the Show button ( ) and select
Advanced Physics Options. You can choose the type and order of the shape functions
used for the variables solved by the Heat Transfer in Shells interfaces.

Temperature
For the temperature, you can choose not only the order of the discretization, but also
the type of shape functions: Lagrange or serendipity. For highly distorted elements,
Lagrange shape functions provide better accuracy than serendipity shape functions of
the same order. The serendipity shape functions will however give significant
reductions of the model size for a given mesh containing hexahedral, prism, or
quadrilateral elements.

The shape functions used for the temperature are Quadratic Lagrange for the modeling
of heat transfer in shells, and Linear for the modeling of heat transfer in films and heat
transfer in fractures.

320 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
The Heat Transfer in Shells interfaces have the dependent variable Temperature T. The
dependent variable names can be changed. Editing the name of a scalar dependent
variable changes both its field name and the dependent variable name. If a new field
name coincides with the name of another field of the same type, the fields share degrees
of freedom and dependent variable names. A new field name must not coincide with
the name of a field of another type or with a component name belonging to some other
field.

ABOUT THE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 321

 T he H e a t T r a nsfer i n Sol i d s In t erfac e
The Heat Transfer in Solids (ht) interface ( ) is used to model heat transfer in solids
by conduction, convection, and radiation. A Solid model is active by default on all
domains. All functionality for including other domain types, such as a fluid domain, is
also available.

The temperature equation defined in solid domains corresponds to the differential

form of the Fourier’s law that may contain additional contributions like heat sources.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to
the Model Builder: Solid, Thermal Insulation (the default boundary condition), and Initial
Values. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example,
boundary conditions and sources. You can also right-click Heat Transfer is Solids to
select physics features from the context menu.

PHYSICAL MODEL
By default, no check boxes are selected under the Physical Model section.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature in solids are Quadratic
Lagrange.

Irreversible transformation indicator

In addition, the discretization level of the Irreversible transformation indicator should
also be set when the Irreversible Transformation subfeature is added under a Solid node.
Otherwise this setting has no effect.

See Discretization for more details.

322 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface for a description of all the
settings.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for links
to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes. You can
also search for information: press F1 to open the Help window or Ctrl+F1
to open the Documentation window.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface with
default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface
• Point Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE | 323

 DOMAIN NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Convectively Enhanced • Out-of-Plane Radiation

Conductivity • Phase Change Material
• Cross Section • Pressure Work
• Fluid • Solid
• Heat Source • Thermoelastic Damping
• Initial Values • Thickness
• Irreversible Transformation • Translational Motion
• Optically Thick Participating • Viscous Dissipation
Medium
• Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

When the Isothermal domain check box is selected in the Physical Model section, the
Isothermal Domain node is also available from the context menu or the Physics toolbar
Domains menu.

324 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Boundary Heat Source • Outflow

• Continuity (Radiation in • Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer
Participating Medium and Radiation interface)
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
interfaces) (Heat Transfer interface)
• Deposited Beam Power • Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)
• External Temperature (Thin Layer, • Temperature
Thin Film, Fracture)
• Thermal Contact
• Heat Flux
• Thermal Insulation
• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film,
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
Fracture)
and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Inflow interface)
• Line Heat Source on Axis • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
• Open Boundary and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

When the Isothermal domain check box is selected in the Physical Model section, the
Isothermal Domain Interface node is added by default and is also available from the
context menu or the Physics toolbar Boundaries menu.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE | 325

 EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface has the following edge nodes (3D components
only):

• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
Fracture) Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
• Line Heat Source Shells)

• Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer • Thin Rod

interface) and Continuity (Heat
Transfer in Shells Interface)
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

POINT NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface has the following point nodes:

• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

• Point Heat Source Rod)

• Point Heat Source on Axis • Temperature (Thin Rod)

More nodes are available with more advanced settings. For the complete list of nodes
available see Domain Features, Boundary Features, Edge Features, Point Features, and
Global Features.

Select the Isothermal domain check box to make the Isothermal Domain
and Isothermal Domain Interface nodes available.

326 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
The Heat Transfer in Fluids (ht) interface ( ) is used to model heat transfer in fluids
by conduction, convection, and radiation. A Fluid model is active by default on all
domains. All functionality for including other domain types, such as a solid domain, is
also available.

The temperature equation defined in fluid domains corresponds to the

convection-diffusion equation that may contain additional contributions like heat
sources.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to
the Model Builder: Fluid, Thermal Insulation (the default boundary condition), and Initial
Values. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example,
boundary conditions and sources. You can also right-click Heat Transfer in Fluids to
select physics features from the context menu.

PHYSICAL MODEL
By default, no check boxes are selected under the Physical Model section.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature in fluids are Linear.

See Discretization for more details.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE | 327

 DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface for a description of all the
settings.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for links
to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes. You can
also search for information: press F1 to open the Help window or Ctrl+F1
to open the Documentation window.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface with
default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface
• Point Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

328 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Convectively Enhanced • Out-of-Plane Radiation

Conductivity • Phase Change Material
• Cross Section • Pressure Work
• Fluid • Solid
• Heat Source • Thermoelastic Damping
• Initial Values • Thickness
• Irreversible Transformation • Translational Motion
• Optically Thick Participating • Viscous Dissipation
Medium
• Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Boundary Heat Source • Outflow

• Continuity (Radiation in • Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer
Participating Medium and Radiation interface)
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
interfaces) (Heat Transfer interface)
• Deposited Beam Power • Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)
• External Temperature (Thin Layer, • Temperature
Thin Film, Fracture)
• Thermal Contact
• Heat Flux
• Thermal Insulation
• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film,
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
Fracture)
and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Inflow interface)
• Line Heat Source on Axis • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
• Open Boundary and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE | 329

 EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface has the following edge nodes (3D components
only):

• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
Fracture) Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
• Line Heat Source Shells)

• Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer • Thin Rod

interface) and Continuity (Heat
Transfer in Shells Interface)
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

POINT NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface has the following point nodes:

• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

• Point Heat Source Rod)

• Point Heat Source on Axis • Temperature (Thin Rod)

More nodes are available with more advanced settings. For the complete list of nodes
available see Domain Features, Boundary Features, Edge Features, Point Features, and
Global Features.

Select the Isothermal domain check box to make the Isothermal Domain
and Isothermal Domain Interface nodes available.

330 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

T he H e a t T r a n sfer i n Sol i d s an d
Fluids Interface
The Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids ( ) interface is automatically added when a
predefined multiphysics interface under the Conjugate Heat Transfer branch is added.

It is used to model heat transfer in solids and fluids by conduction, convection, and
radiation. A Solid model is active by default on all domains, and a Fluid model is also
added but not active.

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface
The settings and the feature nodes are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Fluids
Interface.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS AND FLUIDS INTERFACE | 331

 The Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Interface
The Heat Transfer in Porous Media (ht) interface ( ), found under the Heat Transfer
branch ( ) when adding a physics interface, is used to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in porous media. A Porous Medium model is
active by default on all domains. All functionality for including other domain types,
such as a solid domain, is also available.

The temperature equation defined in porous media domains corresponds to the

convection-diffusion equation with thermodynamic properties averaging models to
account for both solid matrix and fluid properties. This equation is valid when the
temperatures into the porous matrix and the fluid are in equilibrium. If not, use The
Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface instead.

The physics interface is an extension of the generic Heat Transfer interface. When this
physics interface is added, the following default nodes are added in the Model Builder:
Porous Medium, Thermal Insulation (the default boundary condition), and Initial Values.
Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example,
boundary conditions. You can also right-click Heat Transfer in Porous Media to select
physics features from the context menu.

PHYSICAL MODEL
The capability to define material properties, boundary conditions, and more for
porous media heat transfer is activated by selecting the Heat Transfer in Porous Media
check box (see Figure 5-5).

332 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Figure 5-5: The capability to model porous media heat transfer is activated by selecting the
Heat transfer in porous media check box in any Settings window for Heat Transfer (ht)
under Physical Model.

This check box is selected by default when adding The Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Interface.

When the Subsurface Flow Module is added, under Physical Model, select Extended
from the Porous matrix model list to use a version of the matrix feature to account for
multiple immobile solids and fluids, as well as for geothermal heating.

Free Convection in Porous Media: Application Library path

Subsurface_Flow_Module/Heat_Transfer/convection_porous_medium

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for links
to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes. You can
also search for information: press F1 to open the Help window or Ctrl+F1
to open the Documentation window.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature in porous media are Linear.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA INTERFACE | 333

 See Discretization for more details.

The rest of the settings are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Solids
Interface. See Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface for a description of
the other settings.

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous Media

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Porous Media
Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface
• Point Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

334 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA
INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Building Material • Out-of-Plane Radiation

• Convectively Enhanced • Phase Change Material
Conductivity • Porous Medium
• Cross Section • Pressure Work
• Fluid • Solid
• Geothermal Heating • Thermal Dispersion
• Heat Source • Thermoelastic Damping
• Immobile Fluids • Thickness
• Initial Values • Translational Motion
• Irreversible Transformation • Viscous Dissipation
• Optically Thick Participating
Medium
• Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

Set the Porous matrix model to Extended to make the Geothermal Heating and
Immobile Fluids subnodes available.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA INTERFACE | 335

 BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA
INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Boundary Heat Source • Open Boundary

• Continuity (Radiation in • Outflow
Participating Medium and Radiation • Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium interface)
interfaces)
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
• Deposited Beam Power (Heat Transfer interface)
• External Temperature (Thin Layer, • Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)
Thin Film, Fracture)
• Temperature
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface)
• Thermal Contact
and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface) • Thermal Insulation

• Heat Flux • Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)

and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film,
interface)
Fracture)
• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
• Inflow
and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Line Heat Source on Axis interface)

EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface has the following edge nodes (for 3D
components only):

• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
Fracture) Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
• Line Heat Source Shells)

• Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer • Thin Rod

interface) and Continuity (Heat
Transfer in Shells Interface)
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

336 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

POINT NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface has the following point nodes:

• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

• Point Heat Source Rod)

• Point Heat Source on Axis • Temperature (Thin Rod)

More nodes are available with more advanced settings. For the complete list of nodes
available see Domain Features, Boundary Features, Edge Features, Point Features, and
Global Features.

Select the Isothermal domain check box to make the Isothermal Domain
and Isothermal Domain Interface nodes available.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN POROUS MEDIA INTERFACE | 337

 The Heat Transfer in Building
Materials Interface
The Heat Transfer in Building Materials interface ( ) is automatically added when the
Building Materials version of the predefined multiphysics interface Heat and Moisture
Transport is added. A Building Material model is active by default on all domains.

Use this interface to model heat transfer in building materials defined as porous media
containing moisture, which is a mixture of liquid water and vapor. The temperature
equation corresponds to the diffusion equation in which effective thermodynamic
properties account for both the dry solid matrix and moisture properties. The latent
heat of evaporation is included to define a heat source or sink.

When this physics interface is added, the following default nodes are added in the
Model Builder: Building Material, Thermal Insulation, and Initial Values. Then, from the
Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions.
You can also right-click Heat Transfer in Building Materials to select physics features from
the context menu.

Settings for the Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface

The settings are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface, except
for the discretization of the temperature, for which Quadratic Lagrange shape functions
are used.

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface

The feature nodes are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Porous Media Interface,
with in addition the Moist Air node.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Building Materials

338 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference
Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties required by some feature nodes of The Heat
Transfer in Building Materials Interface.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN BUILDING MATERIALS INTERFACE | 339

 T he He a t T r a n sfer i n Moi st A i r
Interface
The Heat Transfer in Moist Air interface ( ) is automatically added when the Moist Air
version of the predefined multiphysics interface Heat and Moisture Transport is added.
A Moist Air (HT Interface) model is active by default on all domains.

It is used to model heat transfer in moist air by convection and diffusion, by using
thermodynamics properties defined as a function of the quantity of vapor in the moist
air.

When this physics interface is added, the following default nodes are added in the
Model Builder: Moist Air, Thermal Insulation, and Initial Values. Then, from the Physics
toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions. You can
also right-click Heat Transfer in Moist Air to select physics features from the context
menu.

Settings for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface

The settings are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface.

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface

The feature nodes are the same as for The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface, with in
addition the Moist Air node.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids

Moist Air Fluid Type

340 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Bioheat Transfer Interface
The Bioheat Transfer (ht) interface ( ), selected under the Heat Transfer branch ( )
when adding a physics interface, is used to model heat transfer by conduction,
convection, and radiation. A Biological Tissue model is active by default on all domains.
All functionality for including other domain types, such as a solid domain, are also
available.

The temperature equation defined in biological tissue domains corresponds to the

differential form of the Fourier’s law with predefined contributions for bioheat
sources. In addition, tissue damage integral models can be included, based on a
temperature threshold or an energy absorption model.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to
the Model Builder: Biological Tissue (with a default Bioheat node), Thermal Insulation
(the default boundary condition), and Initial Values. All functionality to include both
solid and fluid domains are also available. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other
nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions and sources. You can also
right-click Bioheat Transfer to select physics features from the context menu.

PHYSICAL MODEL
The Heat transfer in biological tissue check box is selected by default, which enables the
Damage Integral Analysis Discretization section.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DAMAGE INTEGRAL ANALYSIS DISCRETIZATION

Select the type of the Shape function for damaged tissue indicators. The default is
Discontinuous Lagrange. The order is set in the Discretization section.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE | 341

 Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature in biological tissues are
Quadratic Lagrange.

Damage tissue indicator

When the Thermal Damage subfeature is added under a Biological Tissue node, set the
discretization level of the Damage tissue indicator shape function: Constant (the
default), Linear, Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

See Discretization for more details.

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer Interface for a description of all the
settings.

• Theory for Bioheat Transfer

• Biological Tissue, Bioheat, and Thermal Damage
• Feature Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface

Hepatic Tumor Ablation: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/tumor_ablation

Feature Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Bioheat Transfer Interface with
default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface

342 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

• Point Nodes for the Bioheat Transfer Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE

The Bioheat Transfer Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Bioheat • Out-of-Plane Radiation

• Biological Tissue • Phase Change Material
• Convectively Enhanced • Pressure Work
Conductivity • Solid
• Cross Section • Thermal Damage
• Fluid • Thermoelastic Damping
• Heat Source • Thickness
• Initial Values • Translational Motion
• Irreversible Transformation • Viscous Dissipation
• Optically Thick Participating
Medium
• Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE | 343

 BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE
The Bioheat Transfer Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Boundary Heat Source • Outflow

• Continuity (Radiation in • Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer
Participating Medium and Radiation interface)
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
interfaces) (Heat Transfer interface)
• Deposited Beam Power • Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)
• External Temperature (Thin Layer, • Temperature
Thin Film, Fracture)
• Thermal Contact
• Heat Flux
• Thermal Insulation
• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film,
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
Fracture)
and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Inflow interface)
• Line Heat Source on Axis • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
• Open Boundary and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

EDGE NODES FOR THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE

The Bioheat Transfer Interface has the following edge nodes (for 3D components
only):

• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
Fracture) Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
• Line Heat Source Shells)

• Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer • Thin Rod

interface) and Continuity (Heat
Transfer in Shells Interface)
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin
Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

344 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

POINT NODES FOR THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE
The Bioheat Transfer Interface has the following point nodes:

• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

• Point Heat Source Rod)

• Point Heat Source on Axis • Temperature (Thin Rod)

More nodes are available with more advanced settings. For the complete list of nodes
available see Domain Features, Boundary Features, Edge Features, Point Features, and
Global Features.

THE BIOHEAT TRANSFER INTERFACE | 345

 The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface
The Heat Transfer in Shells (htlsh) interface ( ), found in the Thin Structures physics
area under the Heat Transfer branch ( ), is used to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection and radiation in layered materials represented by boundaries.
The interface is active on all boundaries where a layered material is defined, with a Solid
model active by default. All functionalities for including other boundary contributions,
such as surface-to-ambient radiation, are also available.

Although the layered material is represented as a boundary in the model, the

through-thickness variation of the temperature is accounted for. It means that the
temperature equation corresponding to the Fourier’s law (see Equation 4-50) is solved
also in the layered material’s thickness direction. In addition, a single boundary may
represent several layers with different thermal properties varying through the thickness
of the layered material.

The physics interface is available for 2D components, 3D components, and for

axisymmetric components with cylindrical coordinates in 2D.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are also added
to the Model Builder: Solid, Thermal Insulation (an edge condition), and Initial Values.
Then, from the Physics toolbar, add additional nodes that implement, for example,
boundary interface or edge conditions, and heat sources. You can also right-click Heat
Transfer in Shells to select physics features from the context menu.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) on which to
apply the interface.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the interface should not be applied in
the Selection table.

346 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.

• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the physics interface may correspond to

boundaries with different layered materials. The All layered materials
option allows to gather these materials to make the desired selection
applicable for the physics interface on the union of the boundaries where
the layered materials are defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

PHYSICAL MODEL
By default, the Heat transfer in porous media check box is not selected under the
Physical Model section. Select it to make the Porous Medium boundary feature available,
for the modeling of fractures.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS INTERFACE | 347

 Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature are Quadratic Lagrange. This
setting affects also the discretization of the temperature field in the thickness direction.

See Discretization for more details.

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface for a description of
the other settings.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Shell Conduction: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/shell_conduction

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface with
default settings:

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

• Boundary Interface Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface does not have any domain node, as
it can be applied only on boundaries.

348 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells • Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
Interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Initial Values (Heat Transfer in interface)
Shells interface) • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

BOUNDARY INTERFACE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS

INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface has the following boundary interface nodes:

• Deposited Beam Power, Interface • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation,

(Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer Interface)
in Shells Interface) • Temperature, interface (Heat
• Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)
Transfer in Shells Interface)

EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Shells Interface has the following edge nodes:

• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

Interface) Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Heat Transfer in Shells interface)
Interface) • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Interface) Shells)
• Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer
in Shells Interface)

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN SHELLS INTERFACE | 349

 The Heat Transfer in Films Interface
The Heat Transfer in Films (htlsh) interface ( ), found in the Thin Structures physics
area under the Heat Transfer branch ( ), is used to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection and radiation in layered materials represented by boundaries.
The interface is active on all boundaries where a layered material is defined, with a Fluid
model active by default. All functionalities for including other boundary contributions,
such as surface-to-ambient radiation, are also available.

Although the layered material is represented as a boundary in the model, the

through-thickness variation of the temperature is accounted for. It means that the
convection-diffusion equation is solved also in the layered material’s thickness
direction. In addition, a single boundary may represent several layers with different
thermal properties varying through the thickness of the layered material.

The physics interface is available for 2D components, 3D components, and for

axisymmetric components with cylindrical coordinates in 2D.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are also added
to the Model Builder: Fluid, Thermal Insulation (an edge condition), and Initial Values.
Then, from the Physics toolbar, add additional nodes that implement, for example,
boundary interface or edge conditions, and heat sources. You can also right-click Heat
Transfer in Films to select physics features from the context menu.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) on which to
apply the interface.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the interface should not be applied in
the Selection table.

350 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.

• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the physics interface may correspond to

boundaries with different layered materials. The All layered materials
option allows to gather these materials to make the desired selection
applicable for the physics interface on the union of the boundaries where
the layered materials are defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

PHYSICAL MODEL
By default, the Heat transfer in porous media check box is not selected under the
Physical Model section. Select it to make the Porous Medium boundary feature available.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature are Linear. This setting affects
also the discretization of the temperature field in the thickness direction.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FILMS INTERFACE | 351

 See Discretization for more details.

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface for a description of
the other settings.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Films Interface with
default settings:

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface

• Boundary Interface Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Films Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

The Heat Transfer in Films Interface does not have any domain node, as
it can be applied only on boundaries.

352 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FILMS INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Films Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells • Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
Interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Initial Values (Heat Transfer in interface)
Shells interface) • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

BOUNDARY INTERFACE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FILMS

INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Films Interface has the following boundary interface nodes:

• Deposited Beam Power, Interface • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation,

(Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer Interface)
in Shells Interface) • Temperature, interface (Heat
• Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)
Transfer in Shells Interface)

EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FILMS INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Films Interface has the following edge nodes:

• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

Interface) Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Heat Transfer in Shells interface)
Interface) • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Interface) Shells)
• Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer
in Shells Interface)

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FILMS INTERFACE | 353

 The Heat Transfer in Fractures
Interface
The Heat Transfer in Fractures (htlsh) interface ( ), found in the Thin Structures
physics area under the Heat Transfer branch ( ), is used to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection and radiation in layered materials represented by boundaries.
The interface is active on all boundaries where a layered material is defined, with a
Porous Medium model active by default. All functionalities for including other
boundary contributions, such as surface-to-ambient radiation, are also available.

Although the layered material is represented as a boundary in the model, the

through-thickness variation of the temperature is accounted for. It means that the
temperature equation, corresponding to the convection-diffusion equation with
thermodynamic properties averaging models to account for both solid matrix and fluid
properties, is solved also in the layered material’s thickness direction. This equation is
valid when the temperatures into the porous matrix and the fluid are in equilibrium,
and may contain additional contributions such as heat sources.

In addition, a single boundary may represent several layers with different thermal
properties varying through the thickness of the layered material.

The physics interface is available for 2D components, 3D components, and for

axisymmetric components with cylindrical coordinates in 2D.

When this version of the physics interface is added, these default nodes are also added
to the Model Builder: Porous Medium, Thermal Insulation (an edge condition), and Initial
Values. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add additional nodes that implement, for
example, boundary interface or edge conditions, and heat sources. You can also
right-click Heat Transfer in Fractures to select physics features from the context menu.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) on which to
apply the interface.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

354 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the interface should not be applied in
the Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.

• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the physics interface may correspond to

boundaries with different layered materials. The All layered materials
option allows to gather these materials to make the desired selection
applicable for the physics interface on the union of the boundaries where
the layered materials are defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

PHYSICAL MODEL
By default, the Heat Transfer in Porous Media check box is selected under the Physical
Model section to model fractures on boundaries.

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Consistent Stabilization for more details.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
See Inconsistent Stabilization for more details.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FRACTURES INTERFACE | 355

 Temperature
By default, the shape functions used for the temperature are Linear. This setting affects
also the discretization of the temperature field in the thickness direction.

See Discretization for more details.

DEPENDENT VARIABLES
See Dependent Variables for details.

See Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells Interface for a description of
the other settings.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface
with default settings:

• Boundary Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface

• Boundary Interface Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface
• Edge Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface does not have any domain node,
as it can be applied only on boundaries.

356 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FRACTURES INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) • Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)

and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
in Shells interface) interface)
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
Interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Initial Values (Heat Transfer in interface)
Shells interface)

BOUNDARY INTERFACE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FRACTURES

INTERFACE
The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface has the following boundary interface nodes:

• Deposited Beam Power, Interface • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation,

(Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer Interface)
in Shells Interface) • Temperature, interface (Heat
• Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)
Transfer in Shells Interface)

EDGE NODES FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FRACTURES INTERFACE

The Heat Transfer in Fractures Interface has the following edge nodes (for 3D
components only):

• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

Interface) Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Heat Transfer in Shells interface)
Interface) • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Interface) Shells)
• Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer
in Shells Interface)

THE HEAT TRANSFER IN FRACTURES INTERFACE | 357

 T he S ur f a c e - t o- Su rfac e R ad i at i on
Interface
The Surface-to-Surface Radiation (rad) interface ( ), found under the Heat
Transfer>Radiation branch ( ), is used to model heat transfer by radiation. It treats
thermal radiation as an energy transfer between boundaries and external heat sources
where the medium does not participate in the radiation (radiation in transparent
media).

This interface does not compute the temperature field, it requires it as

model input. If the medium participates in the radiation
(semi-transparent medium), then use The Radiation in Participating
Media Interface instead.

The radiosity equation defined on boundaries where surface-to-surface radiation is

enabled corresponds to the radiosity method equation.

From the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example, boundary
conditions. You can also right-click Surface-to-Surface Radiation to select physics
features from the context menu. For the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface, select a
Stationary or Time Dependent study as a preset study type. The surface-to-surface
radiation is always stationary (that is, the radiation time scale is assumed to be shorter
than any other time scale), but the physics interface is compatible with all standard
study types.

Absolute (thermodynamical) temperature units must be used. See

Specifying Model Equation Settings in the COMSOL Multiphysics
Reference Manual.

In this section:

• Settings for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

• Feature Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

358 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Settings for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface
The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is rad.

RADIATION SETTINGS
Define the Wavelength dependence of surface properties.

• Keep the default value, Constant, to define a diffuse gray radiation model. In this
case, the surface properties (emissivity, radiosity, reflectivity, transmissivity, critical
angle) have the same definition for all wavelengths. The surface properties can still
depend on other quantities, in particular on the temperature.
• Select Solar and ambient to define a diffuse spectral radiation model with two
spectral bands, one for short wavelengths, [0, λ1], (solar radiation) and one for large
wavelengths, [λ1, +∞[, (ambient radiation). It is then possible to define the
Separation point between spectral bands (SI unit: m), λsol/amb, to adjust the
wavelength intervals corresponding to the solar and ambient radiation. The surface
properties can then be defined for each spectral band. In particular it is possible to
define the solar absorptivity for short wavelengths and the surface emissivity for
large wavelengths.
• Select Multiple spectral bands and set the value of the Right endpoint for each spectral
band in the table, to define a diffuse spectral radiation model. These values should
be set in an ascending order. The value of the Left endpoint for the next spectral band
is updated in consequence. It is then possible to provide a definition of the surface
properties for each spectral band.

The first Left endpoint and the last Right endpoint are predefined and equal
to 0 and +∞, respectively.

Modify the Transparent media refractive index if it is different from 1 and corresponds
to vacuum refractive index, which is usually a good approximation for air refractive
index.

THE SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION INTERFACE | 359

 Also select the Use radiation groups check box to enable the ability to define radiation
groups, which can, in many cases, speed up the radiation calculations.

Select the Surface-to-surface radiation method: Direct area integration, Hemicube (the
default), or Ray shooting.

• For Direct Area Integration select a Radiation integration order — 4 is the default.
• For Hemicube select a Radiation resolution — 256 is the default.

• For Ray Shooting select a Radiation resolution — 8 is the default.

Hemicube
Hemicube is the default method for the heat transfer interfaces. The more
sophisticated and general hemicube method uses a z-buffered projection on the sides
of a hemicube (with generalizations to 2D and 1D) to account for shadowing effects.
Think of it as rendering digital images of the geometry in five different directions (in
3D; in 2D only three directions are needed), and counting the pixels in each mesh
element to evaluate its view factor.

Its accuracy can be influenced by setting the Radiation resolution of the virtual
snapshots. The number of z-buffer pixels on each side of the 3D hemicube equals the
specified resolution squared. Thus the time required to evaluate the irradiation
increases quadratically with resolution. In 2D, the number of z-buffer pixels is
proportional to the resolution property, and thus the time is, as well.

For an axisymmetric geometry, Gm and Famb must be evaluated in a corresponding

3D geometry obtained by revolving the 2D boundaries about the axis. COMSOL
Multiphysics creates this virtual 3D geometry by revolving the 2D boundary mesh into
a 3D mesh. The resolution can be controlled in the azimuthal direction by setting the
number of azimuthal sectors, which is the same as the number of elements to a full
revolution. Try to balance this number against the mesh resolution in the rz-plane.

Direct Area Integration

COMSOL Multiphysics evaluates the mutual irradiation between surface directly,
without considering which face elements are obstructed by others. This means that
shadowing effects (that is, surface elements being obstructed in nonconvex cases) are
not taken into account. Elements facing away from each other are, however, excluded
from the integrals.

360 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Direct area integration is fast and accurate for simple geometries with no shadowing,
or where the shadowing can be handled by manually assigning boundaries to different
groups.

If shadowing is ignored, global energy is not conserved. Control the

accuracy by specifying a Radiation integration order. Sharp angles and small
gaps between surfaces may require a higher integration order for accuracy
but also more time to evaluate the irradiation.

Ray Shooting
The use of a ray shooting algorithm allows to generate the view factor data for the
modeling of transmission and specular reflection. Select this method to enable the
Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node (for specular reflection)
and Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node (for
transmission).

To compute the radiation intensity on surfaces, the ray shooting algorithm emits n rays
in 2D and n² rays in 3D where n is the value selected for Radiation resolution. The
trajectories of these rays are computed as they are absorbed, reflected or transmitted
on the model surfaces until their intensity becomes too small or if the rays go far away
from the geometry. The threshold were the ray trajectory is no longer computed is
controlled by the Tolerance. During the rays trajectory computation the tiling is
adapted up to a numbers of time defined by the Maximum number of adaptations.

To improve the accuracy of the radiation computation the user may increase the
Radiation resolution (default value is 8), decrease the Tolerance (default value is 1e-6) or
increase the Maximum number of adaptations (default value is 3). Conversely changing
these values in the opposite direction should decrease computational time. Also, higher
values of the Geometry shape order under Component node may improve the results.

DISCRETIZATION
To display all settings available in this section, click the Show button ( ) and select
Advanced Physics Options.

THE SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION INTERFACE | 361

 Surface Radiosity
Select Linear (the default), Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic or Quintic to define the
discretization level used for the Surface radiosity shape function.

• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

• Feature Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface
• The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface
• Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

Feature Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION INTERFACE

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface has one domain node: Opacity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface).

362 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION
INTERFACE
The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface • Prescribed Radiosity

Radiation interface) (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface interface)
Radiation interface) • Semi-Transparent Surface
• External Radiation Source (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface)
• Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interface) • Radiation Group
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Interface)

THE SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION INTERFACE | 363

 The Radiation in Participating Media
Interface
The Radiation in Participating Media (rpm) interface ( ), found under the Heat
Transfer>Radiation branch ( ), is used to model radiative heat transfer inside
participating (semi-transparent media) media.

This physics interface doesn’t compute the temperature field and requires
it as a model input. If the medium does not participate in the radiation
(transparent medium), then use The Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Interface instead.

The radiative intensity equations defined in participating media domains correspond

to a P1 approximation, or to the discrete ordinates method approximation equations,
depending on the selected approximation.

When the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to the Model Builder:
Participating Medium and Opaque Surface. In addition, when Discrete ordinates method
is selected, Continuity on Interior Boundary is also added. Right-click the main node to
add boundary conditions or other features. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other
nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions. You can also right-click
Radiation in Participating Media node to select physics features from the context menu.

In this section:

• Settings for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

• Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

Settings for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

364 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is rpm.

• Radiative Heat Transfer in Finite Cylindrical Media: Application

Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/
cylinder_participating_media
• Radiative Heat Transfer in a Utility Boiler: Application Library
path Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/boiler

PARTICIPATING MEDIA SETTINGS

Radiation Discretization Method

Select a Radiation discretization method: Discrete ordinates method (the default), or P1
approximation.

• When Discrete ordinates method is selected, Opaque Surface (Radiation in

Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
and Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) are automatically added as
default features.
• When P1 approximation is selected, Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating
Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) is
automatically added as a default feature and both this and Incident Intensity
(Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Medium Interfaces) are made available from the Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows
users), Physics context menu (Mac or Linux users), or the context menu (all users).
Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) is not available.

The choice of Radiation discretization method also offers different settings

for the Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium
Interface) (all methods), Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating
Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) (P1
approximation), and Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating
Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) (P1
approximation) nodes.

THE RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA INTERFACE | 365

 Refractive Index
For either selection, define the Refractive index nr (dimensionless) of the participating
media. The same refractive index is used for the whole model.

Performance Index
When Discrete ordinates method is selected, choose a Performance index Pindex from the
list. Select a value between 0 and 1 that modifies the strategy used to define automatic
solver settings. The default is 0.4. With small values, a robust setting for the solver is
expected. With large values (up to 1), less memory is needed to solve the model.

Quadrature Set
When Discrete ordinates method is selected, the method of angular discretization of the
radiative intensity direction should be specified. In particular, it defines the method of
computation of the weights wj used in the approximation of the scattering term:

4π I ( Ω ) dΩ ≈  wj Ij
j=1

Choose a Quadrature set from the list:

• The Level Symmetric Even (the default), Level Symmetric Hybrid, and Equal Weight
Odd sets are SN approximations. Depending on the set and the order selected in the
Discrete ordinates method list, different moment conditions are satisfied. In 3D, S2,
S4, S6, and S8 generate 8, 24, 48, and 80 directions, respectively. In 2D, S2, S4, S6,
and S8 generate 4, 12, 24, and 40 directions, respectively.
• The Quasi-uniform weight approximation discretizes the angular space by using a
reference octahedron with 8 triangular faces, further discretized in function of the
order of the method. This corresponds to a TN approximation, for which
8N2weights are computed at order N.

See Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM) for details about the SN and TN
quadrature sets.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

366 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Radiative Intensity
When the Radiation discretization method is set to Discrete ordinates method in
Participating Media Settings, set the discretization level of the Radiative intensity:
Constant, Linear (the default), Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

Incident Radiation
When the Radiation discretization method is set to P1 approximation in Participating
Media Settings, set the discretization level of the Incident radiation: Linear (the default),
Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Radiation in Participating Media
Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA

INTERFACE
The Radiation in Participating Media Interface has one domain node: Participating
Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface).

THE RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA INTERFACE | 367

 BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA
INTERFACE
The Radiation in Participating Media Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Continuity (Radiation in • Incident Intensity (Radiation in

Participating Medium and Radiation Participating Medium and Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
interfaces) Interfaces)
• Continuity on Interior Boundary • Opaque Surface (Radiation in
(Radiation in Participating Medium Participating Medium and Radiation
and Radiation in in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
Interfaces)

368 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface
The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media (rasm) interface ( ), found under the
Heat Transfer>Radiation branch ( ), is used to model radiative heat transfer inside
participating (semi-transparent media) media supposed to be non-emitting.

The radiative intensity equations defined in participating media domains correspond

to a P1 approximation or to the discrete ordinates method approximation equations,
depending on the selected approximation.

When the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to the Model Builder:
Absorbing-Scattering Medium and Opaque Surface. In addition, when Discrete ordinates
method is selected, Continuity on Interior Boundary is also added. Right-click the main
node to add boundary conditions or other features. Then, from the Physics toolbar,
add other nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions. You can also
right-click Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media node to select physics features from
the context menu.

In this section:

• Settings for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface

• Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface

Settings for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is rasm.

THE RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA INTERFACE | 369

 PARTICIPATING MEDIA SETTINGS

Radiation Discretization Method

Select a Radiation discretization method: Discrete ordinates method (the default), or P1
approximation.

• When Discrete ordinates method is selected, Opaque Surface (Radiation in

Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
and Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) are automatically added as
default boundary features. The Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating
Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) and Periodic
Condition (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces) features are made available from the
Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows users), Physics context menu (Mac or Linux users),
or the context menu (all users).
• When P1 approximation is selected, Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating
Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) is
automatically added as a default boundary feature. The Incident Intensity
(Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Medium Interfaces), Periodic Condition (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces), and Symmetry (Radiation
in Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Interfaces) features are made available from the Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows
users), Physics context menu (Mac or Linux users), or the context menu (all users).
Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) is not available.

The choice of Radiation discretization method also offers different settings

for the Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interface), Opaque Surface (Radiation in
Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Interfaces), and Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating Medium
and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) nodes.

Refractive Index
For either selection, define the Refractive index nr (dimensionless) of the participating
media. The same refractive index is used for the whole model.

370 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Performance Index
When Discrete ordinates method is selected, choose a Performance index Pindex from the
list. Select a value between 0 and 1 that modifies the strategy used to define automatic
solver settings. The default is 0.4. With small values, a robust setting for the solver is
expected. With large values (up to 1), less memory is needed to solve the model.

Quadrature Set
When Discrete ordinates method is selected, the method of angular discretization of the
radiative intensity direction should be specified. In particular, it defines the method of
computation of the weights wj used in the approximation of the scattering term:

4π I ( Ω ) dΩ ≈  wj Ij
j=1

Choose a Quadrature set from the list:

• The Level Symmetric Even (the default), Level Symmetric Hybrid, and Equal Weight
Odd sets are SN approximations. Depending on the set and the order selected in the
Discrete ordinates method list, different moment conditions are satisfied. In 3D, S2,
S4, S6, and S8 generate 8, 24, 48, and 80 directions, respectively. In 2D, S2, S4, S6,
and S8 generate 4, 12, 24, and 40 directions, respectively.
• The Quasi-uniform weight approximation discretizes the angular space by using a
reference octahedron with 8 triangular faces, further discretized in function of the
order of the method. This corresponds to a TN approximation, for which
8N2weights are computed at order N.

See Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM) for details about the SN and TN
quadrature sets.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Radiative Intensity
When the Radiation discretization method is set to Discrete ordinates method in
Participating Media Settings, set the discretization level of the Radiative intensity:
Constant, Linear (the default), Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

THE RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA INTERFACE | 371

 Incident Radiation
When the Radiation discretization method is set to P1 approximation in Participating
Media Settings, set the discretization level of the Incident radiation: Linear (the default),
Quadratic, Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media

Interface
This section details the nodes available with The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING

MEDIA INTERFACE
The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface has one domain node:
Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Interface).

372 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING
MEDIA INTERFACE
The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface has the following boundary
nodes:

• Continuity (Radiation in • Opaque Surface (Radiation in

Participating Medium and Radiation Participating Medium and Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
interfaces) Interfaces)
• Continuity on Interior Boundary • Periodic Condition (Radiation in
(Radiation in Participating Medium Participating Medium and Radiation
and Radiation in in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces)
Interfaces) • Symmetry (Radiation in
• Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation
Participating Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
Interfaces)

THE RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA INTERFACE | 373

 The Radiative Beam in Absorbing
Media Interface
The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media (rbam) interface ( ), found under the Heat
Transfer>Radiation branch ( ), is used to model the attenuation of an incident light
within a semitransparent material due to absorption. The beam intensity is determined
using the Beer-Lambert Law. As the beam is absorbed it deposits energy which acts as
a heat source.

When the physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to the Model Builder:
Absorbing Medium, Transparent Surface, and Initial Values. Right-click the main node to
add boundary conditions or other features. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other
nodes that implement, for example, boundary conditions. You can also right-click
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media node to select physics features from the context
menu.

In this section:

• Settings for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

• Feature Nodes for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

Settings for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is rbam.

For additional background theory also see Radiative Beam in Absorbing

Media Theory.

374 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
The Streamline diffusion check box is selected by default and should remain selected for
optimal performance. Crosswind diffusion provides extra diffusion in regions with sharp
gradients. The added diffusion is orthogonal to the streamlines, so streamline diffusion
and crosswind diffusion can be used simultaneously. The Crosswind diffusion check box
is also selected by default.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Stabilization.
The Isotropic diffusion check box is not selected by default.

DISCRETIZATION
This section is available by clicking the Show button ( ) and selecting Discretization.

Intensity
Set the discretization level of the intensity: Constant, Linear (the default), Quadratic,
Cubic, Quartic, or Quintic.

Feature Nodes for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

This section details the nodes available with The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface

Some nodes are only available with some COMSOL products.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE RADIATIVE BEAM IN ABSORBING MEDIA

INTERFACE
The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Initial Values (Radiative Beam in • Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam

Absorbing Medium interface) in Absorbing Medium Interface)

THE RADIATIVE BEAM IN ABSORBING MEDIA INTERFACE | 375

 BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE RADIATIVE BEAM IN ABSORBING MEDIA
INTERFACE
The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Incident Intensity (Radiative Beam • Transparent Surface (Radiative

in Absorbing Medium Interface) Beam in Absorbing Medium
• Opaque Surface (Radiative Beam in Interface)
Absorbing Medium Interface)

376 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

The Moisture Transport in Building
Materials Interface
The Moisture Transport in Building Materials (mt) interface ( ) is used to model
moisture transport in building materials by taking into account moisture storage,
liquid transport by capillary suction forces, and the convective transport of vapor. A
Building Material model is active by default on all domains.

When this physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to the Model
Builder: Building Material, Insulation (the default boundary condition), and Initial
Values. Then, from the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example,
boundary conditions. You can also right-click Moisture Transport in Building Materials
to select physics features from the context menu.

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties required by some feature nodes of the Moisture
Transport in Building Materials Interface.

Settings for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is mt.

PHYSICAL MODEL
In 2D and 1D axisymmetric components, set the Thickness dz, which is the thickness
of the domain in the out-of-plane direction. The default value is 1 m.

In 1D components, set the Cross sectional area Ac and the Cross sectional perimeter Pc
of the domain. Default values are 1 m2 and 2 πA c , respectively.

THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN BUILDING MATERIALS INTERFACE | 377

 CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Streamline diffusion check box is selected by default and should remain selected for
optimal performance for applications that include a convective or translational term.
Crosswind diffusion provides extra diffusion in regions with sharp gradients. The added
diffusion is orthogonal to the streamlines, so streamline diffusion and crosswind
diffusion can be used simultaneously. The Crosswind diffusion check box is also selected
by default.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Isotropic diffusion check box is not selected by default. To add isotropic diffusion,
select the Isotropic diffusion check box. The field for the tuning parameter δid then
becomes available. The default value is 0.25; increase or decrease the value of δid to
increase or decrease the amount of isotropic diffusion.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual:

• Stabilization Techniques
• Stabilization

ADVANCED SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.
Normally these settings do not need to be changed, and only apply to the domains in
which a Moist Air feature is active. Select a Convective term—Non-conservative form (the
default) or Conservative form. The latter should be used for compressible flow.

DISCRETIZATION
To display all settings available in this section, click the Show button ( ) and select
Advanced Physics Options. The shape functions used for the relative humidity are
Quadratic Lagrange.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for links
to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes. You can
also search for information: press F1 to open the Help window or Ctrl+F1
to open the Documentation window.

Theory for Moisture Transport

378 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials
Interface
This section details the nodes available with The Moisture Transport in Building
Materials Interface with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN BUILDING

MATERIALS INTERFACE
The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface has the following domain
nodes:

• Building Material • Moist Air (MT Interface)

• Initial Values • Moisture Source

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN BUILDING

MATERIALS INTERFACE
The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface has the following boundary
nodes:

• Continuity • Outflow
• Insulation • Symmetry
• Moist Surface • Thin Moisture Barrier
• Moisture Content • Wet Surface
• Moisture Flux

THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN BUILDING MATERIALS INTERFACE | 379

 T he M o i s tur e Tran sp ort i n A i r
Interface
The Moisture Transport in Air (mt) interface ( ) is used to model moisture transport
through convection and diffusion of vapor in moist air. A Moist Air (MT Interface)
model is active by default on all domains.

When this physics interface is added, these default nodes are added to the Model
Builder: Moist Air, Insulation (the default boundary condition), and Initial Values. Then,
from the Physics toolbar, add other nodes that implement, for example, boundary
conditions. You can also right-click Moisture Transport in Air to select physics features
from the context menu.

Settings for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface

The Label is the default physics interface name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the physics
interface. Refer to such physics interface variables in expressions using the pattern
<name>.<variable_name>. In order to distinguish between variables belonging to
different physics interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and
underscores (_) are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first physics interface in the model) is mt.

PHYSICAL MODEL
In 2D and 1D axisymmetric components, set the Thickness dz, which is the thickness
of the domain in the out-of-plane direction. The default value is 1 m.

In 1D components, set the Cross sectional area Ac and the Cross sectional perimeter Pc
of the domain. Default values are 1 m2 and 2 πA c , respectively.

Set the Reference vapor concentration which is used when the moisture transport
interface is coupled to a fluid flow interface with the Incompressible flow option selected
in the Compressibility list. In this case, the fluid density is evaluated at the Reference
pressure level (defined in the Physical Model section of the fluid flow interface), at the
reference temperature defined in the moisture transport interface (293.15 K), and at
the Reference vapor concentration specified in this section.

380 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

CONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Streamline diffusion check box is selected by default and should remain selected for
optimal performance for applications that include a convective or translational term.
Crosswind diffusion provides extra diffusion in regions with sharp gradients. The added
diffusion is orthogonal to the streamlines, so streamline diffusion and crosswind
diffusion can be used simultaneously. The Crosswind diffusion check box is also selected
by default.

INCONSISTENT STABILIZATION
The Isotropic diffusion check box is not selected by default. To add isotropic diffusion,
select the Isotropic diffusion check box. The field for the tuning parameter δid then
becomes available. The default value is 0.25; increase or decrease the value of δid to
increase or decrease the amount of isotropic diffusion.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual:

• Stabilization Techniques
• Stabilization

ADVANCED SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.
Normally these settings do not need to be changed, and only apply to the domains in
which a Moist Air feature is active. Select a Convective term—Non-conservative form (the
default) or Conservative form. The latter should be used for compressible flow.

DISCRETIZATION
To display all settings available in this section, click the Show button ( ) and select
Advanced Physics Options. The shape functions used for the relative humidity are Linear.

In the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual see Table 2-3 for links
to common sections and Table 2-4 to common feature nodes. You can
also search for information: press F1 to open the Help window or Ctrl+F1
to open the Documentation window.

Theory for Moisture Transport

THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR INTERFACE | 381

 Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface
This section details the nodes available with The Moisture Transport in Air Interface
with default settings:

• Domain Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface

• Boundary Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface

DOMAIN NODES FOR THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR INTERFACE

The Moisture Transport in Air Interface has the following domain nodes:

• Building Material • Moist Air (MT Interface)

• Initial Values • Moisture Source

BOUNDARY NODES FOR THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR INTERFACE

The Moisture Transport in Air Interface has the following boundary nodes:

• Continuity • Outflow
• Insulation • Symmetry
• Moist Surface • Thin Moisture Barrier
• Moisture Content • Wet Surface
• Moisture Flux

382 | CHAPTER 5: THE HEAT TRANSFER MODULE INTERFACES

 6

The Heat Transfer Features

The Heat Transfer Interfaces have domain, boundary, edge, point, and pair nodes
and subnodes (including out-of-plane and layer features) available. These nodes,
listed in alphabetical order in this section, are available from the Physics ribbon
toolbar (Windows users), from the Physics context menu (Mac or Linux users), or
by right-clicking to access the context menu (all users). Subnodes are available by
right-clicking the parent node and selecting it from the Attributes menu.

In this section:

• Domain Features
• Boundary Features
• Boundary Interface Features
• Edge Features
• Point Features
• Global Features

383
 Domain Features
The following domain nodes and subnodes are available for the Heat Transfer
interfaces:

• Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam • Optically Thick Participating

in Absorbing Medium Interface) Medium
• Absorbing-Scattering Medium • Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
(Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering • Out-of-Plane Radiation
Medium Interface)
• Participating Medium (Radiation in
• Bioheat Participating Medium Interface)
• Biological Tissue • Phase Change Material
• Building Material • Porous Medium
• Convectively Enhanced • Pressure Work
Conductivity
• Shape Memory Alloy
• Cross Section
• Solid
• Fluid
• Thermal Damage
• Geothermal Heating
• Thermal Dispersion
• Heat Source
• Thermoelastic Damping
• Immobile Fluids
• Thickness
• Initial Values
• Translational Motion
• Initial Values (Radiative Beam in
• Viscous Dissipation
Absorbing Medium interface)
• Irreversible Transformation
• Isothermal Domain
• Moist Air (HT Interface)
• Opacity (Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interface)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

384 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium
Interface)
This node computes the radiative intensity of incident beams propagating in an
absorbing medium, as the solution of the Beer-Lambert equation:

ei
--------- ⋅ ∇I i = – κI i
ei

where

• ei is the orientation of the ith beam (dimensionless).

• Ii is the intensity of the ith beam (SI unit: W/m2).
• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1) of the medium.

The energy deposited due to the propagation of the beams in the absorbing medium
is computed and the radiative heat source term Q (SI unit: W/m3) is defined by:

Q =
 κIi
i

See Incident Intensity (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) for the
definition of the orientation and profile of the ith beam.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used.
The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 385

 ABSORBING MEDIUM
The Absorption coefficient of the medium, κ (SI unit: m–1), should be set in this
section.

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media>Absorbing Medium

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media selected:
Domains>Absorbing Medium

Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering

Medium Interface)
This node should be used when radiation occurs in a medium not completely
transparent, in which the radiation rays interact with the medium. It computes the
heating due to the propagation of the rays, and takes into account the absorbed and
the scattered radiation, depending on the Radiation discretization method selected in
the Participating Media Settings section of the interface. In particular, it can be used
for the modeling of light diffusion in a non-emitting medium.

It computes the radiative heat source term Qr (SI unit: W/m3), defined by:

Qr = κG

where

• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1).

• G is the incident radiation (SI unit: W/m2), defined by

G= 4π I ( Ω ) dΩ
where

386 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• I(Ω) is the radiative intensity (SI unit: W/(m2·sr)) at a given position following the
Ω direction, that satisfies the radiative transfer equation with no emission term
σs 4π
Ω ⋅ ∇I ( Ω ) = – β I ( Ω ) + ------
4π 0 I ( Ω′ ) φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′

• β = κ + σs is the extinction coefficient (SI unit: 1/m).

• σs is the scattering coefficient (SI unit: 1/m).
• φ ( Ω′, Ω ) is the scattering phase function (dimensionless)

If.the Radiation discretization method is Discrete ordinates method, G is defined by

G=  ωi Ii
i=1

and

N
σs
S i ⋅ ∇I i = κI b ( T ) – βI i + ------
4π  ω j I j φ ( S j, S i )
j=1

where

• Si is the i-th discrete ordinate.

• Ii is the i-th component of the radiative intensity.
• ωj is the i-th quadrature weight.

If the Radiation discretization method is P1 approximation, G is the solution of the

following equation

∇ ⋅ ( D P1 ∇G ) – κ G = 0 (6-1)

where DP1 is the P1 diffusion coefficient.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 387

 The characteristics of the two available radiation discretization methods are
summarized in the following table.
TABLE 6-1: DISCRETIZATION METHODS FOR RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA (RASM
INTERFACE)

OPTION DOM P1

Optical All τ>>1

thickness
validity
Absorption Yes Yes
modeling
Scattering Linear Linear
modeling Polynomial
Computational High: up to 80 Medium: 1
cost additional additional
degrees of degree of
freedom (Ii) freedom (G)

If radiative emission should be considered as well, the Participating Medium

(Radiation in Participating Medium Interface) node should be used instead. The table
below describes the different effects accounted for by the interfaces found under the
Heat Transfer>Radiation branch ( ).
TABLE 6-2: RADIATION EFFECTS COMPUTED BY THE RADIATION INTERFACES

RADIATION RPM RASM RBAM

EFFECT

Absorption Yes Yes Yes

Scattering Yes Yes No
Emission Yes No No

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used.
The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics

388 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.Absorption

The Absorption coefficient κ should be specified. It defines the amount of radiation,

κI(Ω), that is absorbed by the medium.

SCATTERING
This section sets the scattering property of the participating medium. The Scattering
coefficient σs should be specified.

Choose in addition the Scattering type: Isotropic, Linear anisotropic, Polynomial

anisotropic (only with Discrete ordinates method), or Henyey-Greenstein (only with
Discrete ordinates method).

This setting provides options to approximate the scattering phase function φ using the
cosine of the scattering angle, μ0:

• Isotropic (the default) corresponds to the scattering phase function φ(μ0) = 1.

• For Linear anisotropic it defines the scattering phase function as φ (μ0) = 1 + a1μ0.
Enter the Legendre coefficient a1.
• For Polynomial anisotropic it defines the scattering phase function as
12

φ ( μ0 ) = 1 +  am Pm ( μ0 )
m=1

Enter each Legendre coefficient a1, …, a12 as required.

• For Henyey-Greenstein it defines the scattering phase function as

2
1 1–η
φ ( μ 0 ) = ---- ⋅ ------------------------------------------------
3⁄2
-
K 2
( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

where – 1 < η < 1 is the anisotropy parameter and K is defined as follows to produce
a normalized phase function:
2
1 1–η
K = ------ ⋅
4π  ------------------------------------------------
2 3⁄2
- dΩ
4π ( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

For Linear anisotropic and Polynomial anisotropic, select the Normalize phase function
check box to define a phase function such as

DOMAIN FEATURES | 389

  φ ( μ0 ) dΩ = 4π
4π

The normalization is automatically applied for the Henyey-Greenstein option.

INITIAL VALUES
When Discrete ordinates method is selected as the Radiation discretization method for
the physics interface, the Initial radiative intensity I should be specified. The default is
0.

When P1 approximation is selected as the Radiation discretization method for the physics
interface, the Initial incident radiation G should be specified. The default is 0.

• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media

• Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM)
• P1 Approximation Theory
• Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Theory

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Absorbing-Scattering Medium

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media selected:
Domains>Absorbing-Scattering Medium

Bioheat
This feature provides the source terms that represent blood perfusion and metabolism
to model heat transfer in biological tissue using the bioheat equation:

ρ b C p, b ω b ( T b – T ) + Q met

390 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

BIOHEAT
Enter values or expressions for these properties and source terms:

• Arterial blood temperature Tb, which is the temperature at which blood leaves the
arterial blood veins and enters the capillaries. T is the temperature in the tissue,
which is the dependent variable that is solved for and not a material property.
• Specific heat, blood Cp, b, which describes the amount of heat energy required to
produce a unit temperature change in a unit mass of blood.
• Blood perfusion rate ωb (SI unit: 1/s, which in this case means (m3/s)/m3),
describes the volume of blood per second that flows through a unit volume of tissue.
• Density, blood ρb, which is the mass per volume of blood.
• Metabolic heat source Qmet, which describes heat generation from metabolism.
Enter this quantity as the unit power per unit volume.

• Theory for Bioheat Transfer

• Biological Tissue
• Thermal Damage

Hepatic Tumor Ablation: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/tumor_ablation

Microwave Heating of a Cancer Tumor: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/microwave_cancer_therapy

Modeling a Conical Dielectric Probe for Skin Cancer Diagnosis:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/
conical_dielectric_probe

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

A default Bioheat node is automatically added to the Biological Tissue node.

Context menus
Bioheat Transfer>Biological Tissue>Bioheat

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in biological tissue check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Biological Tissue>Bioheat

DOMAIN FEATURES | 391

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with Biological Tissue selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Bioheat

Biological Tissue
This node adds the bioheat equation as the mathematical model for heat transfer in
biological tissue. This equation can include source terms representing blood perfusion
and metabolism using Pennes’ approximation, through the addition of a Bioheat
subnode; see Equation 4-19. Optionally a damage model can be defined to account
for overheating or freezing in tissues, by adding a Thermal Damage subnode.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

392 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

HEAT CONDUCTION, SOLID
The default Thermal conductivity k uses values From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity and enter another value or expression in the field or matrix.

THERMODYNAMICS, SOLID
The default Density ρ and Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp are taken From material.
See Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame if a
temperature-dependent density should be set.

The heat capacity describes the amount of heat energy required to produce a unit
temperature change in a unit mass.

For User defined enter other values or expressions.

• Theory for Bioheat Transfer

• Bioheat
• Thermal Damage

When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Opaque option selected. The domain selection
can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as transparent, add a new
Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

There are specific predefined materials available in the Bioheat material

database. See Materials Overview and Bioheat Materials Database in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 393

 Hepatic Tumor Ablation: Application Library path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/tumor_ablation

Microwave Heating of a Cancer Tumor: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/microwave_cancer_therapy

Modeling a Conical Dielectric Probe for Skin Cancer Diagnosis:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/
conical_dielectric_probe

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Bioheat Transfer>Biological Tissue

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in biological tissue check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Biological Tissue

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Bioheat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids,
Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media or Heat Transfer in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>interface >Biological Tissue

Building Material
Use this node to model a building material as a porous medium containing a mixture
of liquid water and vapor. The overall material properties change due to moisture
transfer is accounted for through an apparent thermal conductivity change and a heat
source or sink given in the divergence operator. It accounts for the latent heat of
evaporation:

∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ∇ ⋅ q = Q (6-2)
∂t

q = – ( k eff ∇T + L v δ p ∇( φp sat ) ) (6-3)

with the following material properties, fields, and source:

• (ρCp)eff (SI unit: J/(m3·K)) is the effective volumetric heat capacity at constant
pressure.

394 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• keff (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the effective thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if
the thermal conductivity is anisotropic).
• Lv (SI unit: J/kg) is the latent heat of evaporation.
• δp (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability.
• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• psat (SI unit: Pa) is the vapor saturation pressure.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as
separate physics features. See Heat Source node for example.

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the first
term disappears.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 395

 Relative humidity
This section has an input for the definition of the relative humidity, used in the right
hand side of Equation 6-3.

The default Relative humidity φ is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the relative humidity variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Moisture Transport interface is
added, you can select Relative humidity (mt/pm1) from the list. The Common model
input option corresponds to the minput.phi variable, set to 0 by default. To edit it,
click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Relative humidity in the Expression for remaining selection
section.

If the node was added automatically after selecting the predefined multiphysics
interface Heat and Moisture Transport, the relative humidity of the multiphysics node
Heat and Moisture is used by default and the section is not editable. To edit the Relative
humidity field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ).

HEAT CONDUCTION
This section provides two options for the definition of the effective thermal
conductivity keff:

• When Equivalent thermal conductivity is selected (the default), a value for the
Effective thermal conductivity keff should be specified directly. The default Effective
thermal conductivity is taken From material. For User defined, select Isotropic,
Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar
which will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values
or expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.
• When Dry material thermal conductivity is selected, the effective thermal
conductivity is defined as a function of the solid matrix and moisture properties:

k eff = k s  1 + --------
bw
 ρs 

This definition neglects the contribution due to the volume fraction change of the
moist air.

The Dry solid thermal conductivity ks (SI unit: W/(m·K)) and the Thermal
conductivity supplement b (dimensionless) should be specified. The default Dry solid

396 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 thermal conductivity and Thermal conductivity supplement are taken From material.
For User defined, enter values or expressions into the editable fields.
The Density ρs and the Moisture storage function w are specified in the
Thermodynamics, Dry Solid and Building Material Properties sections respectively.

THERMODYNAMICS, DRY SOLID

This section sets the thermodynamics properties of the dry solid.

The specific heat capacity describes the amount of heat energy required to produce a
unit temperature change in a unit mass of the dry solid material.

The Density ρs and the Specific heat capacity Cp,s should be specified. The default
Density and Specific heat capacity are taken From material. For User defined, enter values
or expressions into the editable fields.

The effective volumetric heat capacity at constant pressure is defined to account for
both solid matrix and moisture properties:

( ρC p ) eff = ρ s C p, s + wC p, w

where

• ρs (SI unit: kg/m3) is the dry solid density.

• Cp,s (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the dry solid specific heat capacity.
• w (SI unit: kg/m3) is the water content given by a moisture storage function.
• Cp,w (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the water heat capacity at constant pressure.

BUILDING MATERIAL PROPERTIES

This section sets the properties of the building material for moisture storage and vapor
diffusion.

The Moisture storage function w should be set to characterize the relationship between
the amount of accumulated water and the relative humidity in the material. The default
Moisture storage function is taken From material. For User defined, enter another value
or expression.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 397

 Two options are available for the specification of the building material properties for
vapor diffusion:

• Vapor permeability (default) to define directly the vapor permeability δp. The default
Vapor permeability is taken From material. For User defined, enter another value or
expression.
• Vapor resistance factor μ to define the vapor permeability δp as:

δ
δ p = ---
μ

where δ (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability of still air. The default Vapor resistance
factor is taken From material. For User defined, enter another value or expression.

If the node was added automatically after selecting the predefined multiphysics
interface Heat and Moisture Transport, the building material properties of the
multiphysics node Heat and Moisture are used by default and the inputs are not editable.
To edit these fields, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ) in the Model Inputs
section.

• The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface

• The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces
• Heat and Moisture

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties required by the Building Material node.

The Building Material node is defined in the spatial frame. The material
properties should be entered in the spatial frame, and the coupling with
a moving frame interface is not supported. See Handling Frames in Heat
Transfer for more details.

398 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Opaque option selected. The domain selection
can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as transparent, add a new
Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Building Material

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Building Material

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface>Building Material

Convectively Enhanced Conductivity

This subnode accounts for convective heat flux by enhancing the fluid thermal
conductivity according to the Nusselt number. When added under the Fluid or the
Moist Air node, it sets the fluid velocity to zero, and the user-defined or predefined
velocity model input is ignored.

CONVECTIVELY ENHANCED CONDUCTIVITY

The following options are available in the Nusselt number correlation list:

• Horizontal cavity heated from below, for which values for the Cavity height H and the
Temperature difference ΔT should be specified for the computation of the Nusselt
number. Unfold the Sketch section for details about the required parameters.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 399

 • Vertical rectangular cavity, for which values for the Cavity height H, the Plate distance
L, and the Temperature difference ΔT should be specified for the computation of the
Nusselt number. Unfold the Sketch section for details about the required
parameters.
• User defined, for which a value for Nu should be specified directly.

For the two first options, select Automatic (default) or User defined to define the
Temperature difference ΔT. When Automatic is selected the temperature difference is
evaluated as the difference between the maximal and the minimal temperature on the
exterior boundaries of the feature selection.

DYNAMIC VISCOSITY
This section is not available when the Convectively Enhanced Conductivity feature is
added under the Fluid node with Fluid type set as Moist air, or under the Moist Air node.
Else, the Dynamic viscosity μ used to compute the Nusselt number should be set.

When the Fluid type is Moist air, or when the Convectively Enhanced
Conductivity feature is added under the Moist Air node, the natural
convection due to vapor concentration gradients is neglected. Indeed,
only thermally induced variations of the density are accounted for in these
correlations.

When the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling node is added, the

Convectively Enhanced Conductivity feature is overridden by the
multiphysics coupling node’s contribution, and convection is explicitly
computed by using the predefined velocity model input.

Evaporative Cooling of Water: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/evaporative_cooling

Equivalent Thermal Conductivity Correlations

400 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Fluid>Convectively Enhanced Conductivity
Heat Transfer in Moist Air>Moist Air>Convectively Enhanced Conductivity

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Solids>Fluid>Convectively Enhanced Conductivity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Fluid or Moist Air selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Convectively Enhanced Conductivity

Cross Section
Use this node with 1D components to model domains with another cross sectional
area or another cross sectional perimeter than the global one that is used in the Heat
Transfer interface Physical Model section. In 1D geometries, the temperature is
assumed to be constant in the radial direction, and the heat equation is modified to
account for that. See Equation 4-149 and Equation 4-150.

CROSS SECTION
Enter values for the Cross sectional area Ac and the Cross sectional perimeter Pc to set
the cross section of the domain in the plane perpendicular to the 1D geometry.

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Cross Section
Heat Transfer in Solids>Cross Section
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Cross Section
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Cross Section
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Cross Section
Bioheat Transfer>Cross Section

DOMAIN FEATURES | 401

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media or Bioheat Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Cross Section

Fluid
This node uses the following version of the heat equation to model heat transfer in
fluids:

∂T
ρC p ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q
∂t (6-4)
q = – k∇ T

with the following material properties, fields, and sources:

• ρ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the fluid density.

• Cp (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the fluid heat capacity at constant pressure.
• k (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the fluid thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if the
thermal conductivity is anisotropic).
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the fluid velocity field, either an analytic expression or a velocity
field from a Fluid Flow interface.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as
separate physics features. See Heat Source node, and Viscous Dissipation and
Pressure Work subnodes for example.
For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the first
term disappears.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces

402 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Absolute Pressure
The absolute pressure is used in some predefined quantities that include the enthalpy
(the energy flux, for example).

It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied. See Thermodynamics, Fluid.

The default Absolute pressure pA is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the absolute pressure variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Laminar Flow interface is added you
can select Absolute pressure (spf) from the list. The Common model input option
corresponds to the minput.pA variable, set to 1 [atm] by default. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Pressure in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Velocity Field
The default Velocity field u is User defined. For User defined enter values or expressions
for the components based on space dimensions. Or select an existing velocity field in
the component (for example, Velocity field (spf) from a Laminar Flow interface). The
Common model input option corresponds to the minput.u variable. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set values for the Velocity components in the Expression for remaining
selection section.

Concentration
This section can be edited anytime a material property is concentration dependent; for
example, when the Fluid type is set to Moist air with Input quantity set to Concentration.

From the Concentration c (SI unit: mol/m3 or kg/m3) list, select an existing
concentration variable from another physics interface, if any concentration variables
exist, User defined to enter a value or expression for the concentration, or Common
model input which corresponds to the minput.c variable.

FLUID MATERIAL
This section is available only when the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics
coupling is included in the component to model porous media. It makes it possible to
define different material properties for the fluid phase when the domain material
corresponds to the solid phase (porous matrix) material.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 403

 Select any material from the list to define the Fluid material. The default uses the
Domain material.

HEAT CONDUCTION, FLUID

The thermal conductivity k describes the relationship between the heat flux vector q
and the temperature gradient ∇T in q = −k∇T, which is Fourier’s law of heat
conduction. Enter this quantity as power per length and temperature.

The default Thermal conductivity k is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter values or expressions for the thermal conductivity or its
components. For Isotropic enter a scalar which will be used to define a diagonal tensor.
For the other options, enter values or expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

THERMODYNAMICS, FLUID
This section sets the thermodynamics properties of the fluid.

The heat capacity at constant pressure Cp describes the amount of heat energy required
to produce a unit temperature change in a unit mass.

The ratio of specific heats γ is the ratio of the heat capacity at constant pressure, Cp, to
the heat capacity at constant volume, Cv. When using the ideal gas law to describe a
fluid, specifying γ is sufficient to evaluate Cp. For common diatomic gases such as air,
γ = 1.4 is the standard value. Most liquids have γ = 1.1 while water has γ = 1.0. γ is used
in the streamline stabilization and in the variables for heat fluxes and total energy
fluxes. It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied.

The available Fluid type options are Gas/Liquid (default), Moist air, and Ideal gas. After
selecting a Fluid type from the list, further settings display underneath.

Gas/Liquid
This option specifies the Density, the Heat capacity at constant pressure, and the Ratio
of specific heats for a general gas or liquid.

Ideal Gas
This option uses the ideal gas law to describe the fluid. Only two properties are needed
to define the thermodynamics of the fluid:

• The gas constant, with two options for the Gas constant type: Specific gas constant
Rs or Mean molar mass Mn. If Mean molar mass is selected the software uses the

404 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 universal gas constant R = 8.314 J/(mol·K), which is a built-in physical constant, to
compute the specific gas constant.
• Either the Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp or Ratio of specific heats γ by
selecting the option from the Specify Cp or γ list. For an ideal gas, it is sufficient to
specify either Cp or the ratio of specific heats, γ, as these properties are
interdependent.

Moist Air
If Moist air is selected, the thermodynamics properties are defined as a function of the
quantity of vapor in the moist air. The available Input quantity options to define the
amount of vapor in the moist air are the following:

• Vapor mass fraction to define the ratio of the vapor mass to the total mass. Enter a
value or expression for the Vapor mass fraction ω.
• Concentration to define the amount of water vapor in the total volume. If selected,
a Concentration model input is added in the Model Inputs section.
• Moisture content (the default), also called mixing ratio or humidity ratio, to define
the ratio of the water vapor mass to the dry air mass. For User defined, enter a value
or expression for the Moisture Content xvap. Else, select an Ambient moisture content
defined from an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.
• Relative humidity φ , a quantity defined between 0 and 1, where 0 corresponds to
dry air and 1 to a water vapor-saturated air. The Relative humidity, temperature
condition T φ and Relative humidity, absolute pressure condition p φ must be
specified.

• Moist Air Fluid Type

• Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids

With certain COMSOL products, the Viscous Dissipation (for heat

generated by viscous friction), Pressure Work, and Convectively
Enhanced Conductivity subnodes are available from the context menu
(right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar, Attributes menu.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 405

 When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Transparent option selected. The domain
selection can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as opaque, add
a new Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

Heat Sink: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/heat_sink

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Fluid
Heat Transfer in Solids>Fluid
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Fluid
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fluid
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Fluid
Bioheat Transfer>Fluid

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Fluid

Geothermal Heating
Use this node to account for the contribution of geothermal heat production by
adding a source term Qgeo to the right-hand side of the heat equation:

Q geo = ρ geo q geo f ( z geo )

406 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The predefined expression of the heat source uses the Geothermal Density, the
Radiogenic heating per unit mass, and a distribution function that can be set.

GEOTHERMAL HEAT PRODUCTION

Specify the Radiogenic heating per unit mass qgeo.

The two option buttons in the same group control the distribution function f(zgeo):

• If Uniform distribution is selected, f(zgeo) = 1 and the geothermal heat source is

assumed to be independent on depth.
• If Exponential distribution is selected, two additional input fields are displayed
underneath. The exponential distribution f(zgeo) = exp(zgeo ⁄ hgeo), is defined by the
constant Length scale: hgeo and the variable Depth zgeo. The depth can be, for
example, the vertical coordinate direction. The heat source achieves its maximum
value where zgeo = 0, typically the top surface of a model.

GEOTHERMAL DENSITY
Select the Geothermal density: Solids, Porous media, or User defined:

• If Solids is selected, it calculates the geothermal density based on the volume fraction
of solid material

 θpi ρpi
i
ρ geo = -----------------------
-
 θ pi
i
• If Porous media is selected, it calculates the geothermal density based on all mobile
and immobile components of the porous medium:

ρ geo =  θpi ρpi +  θgi ρgi + θL ρL

i i

• If User defined is selected, enter a value for the Geothermal density ρgeo.

The Geothermal Heating subnode requires the Subsurface Flow Module.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit
http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN FEATURES | 407

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Porous matrix model is set to Extended under the Physical Model section:
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Porous Medium>Geothermal Heating

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
and Porous matrix model is set to Extended under the Physical Model section. For
example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium>Geothermal Heating

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Porous Medium selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Porous Medium>Geothermal Heating

Heat Source
This node describes heat generation within the domain. You express heating and
cooling with positive and negative values, respectively. Add one or more nodes as
needed — all heat sources within a domain contribute to the total heat source.

The Heat Source node adds a source term Q to the right-hand side of the heat equation:

Q = Q0

Specify Q0 as the heat rate per unit volume, as a linear heat source, or as a heat rate.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Source
section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Heat Source node is Solid, which specifies that the heat
source Q0 is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer variables and
equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally converted to the
spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames for details.

408 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• The Nonsolid option defines Q0 in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT SOURCE
Click the General source (the default), Linear source, or Heat rate buttons.

• For General source enter a value for the distributed heat source Q0 when the default
option (User defined) is selected. See also Additional General Source Options to use
predefined heat sources available from other interfaces.
• For Linear source enter a value for the Production/absorption coefficient qs used in the
predefined linear expression. The advantage of writing the source on this form is
that it can be accounted for in the streamline diffusion stabilization. The
stabilization applies when qs is independent of the temperature, but some stability
can be gained as long as qs is only weakly dependent on the temperature.
• For Heat rate enter a value for the heat rate P0. In this case Q0 = P0⁄V, where V is
the total volume of the selected domains.

Additional General Source Options

For the general heat source Q0 there are predefined heat sources available (in addition
to a User defined heat source) when simulating heat transfer together with electrical or
electromagnetic interfaces. Such sources represent, for example, ohmic heating and
induction heating. Depending on additional physics interfaces, the following are
available:

• With the addition of an Electric Currents interface, the Total power dissipation
density (ec) heat source is available from the General source list.
• With the addition of any version of the Electromagnetic Waves interface (which
requires the RF Module), the Total power dissipation density (emw) and

DOMAIN FEATURES | 409

 Electromagnetic power loss density (emw) heat sources are available from the General
source list.
• With the addition of a Magnetic Fields interface (a 3D component requires the AC/
DC Module), the Electromagnetic heating (mf) heat source is available from the
General source list.
• With the addition of a Magnetic and Electric Fields interface (which requires the
AC/DC Module), the Electromagnetic heating (mef) heat source is available from the
General source list.
• For the Heat Transfer in Porous Media interface, with the addition of interfaces
from the Batteries & Fuel Cells Module, Corrosion Module, or Electrodeposition
Module, heat sources from the electrochemical current distribution interfaces are
available.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• Stabilization Techniques in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference
Manual

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

For the definition of a localized heat source, see Line Heat Source, Line
Heat Source and Point Heat Source.

For the definition of a heat on a boundary, see Boundary Heat Source.

Forced Convection Cooling of an Enclosure with Fan and Grille:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/electronic_enclosure_cooling

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

410 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Solids>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Heat Source
Bioheat Transfer>Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface>Heat Source

Immobile Fluids
This node should be used to model an unsaturated porous matrix for which the pore
space is not filled with liquid and contains one or more gas considered as immobile
fluids; or a porous matrix containing insulated enclosures.

It is possible to add and define up to five different immobile fluids and volume
fractions to the porous matrix.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 411

 IMMOBILE FLUIDS
In this section, the Number of fluids to define — 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 — is set. Depending on
the Number of fluids, further settings display underneath. For each fluid:

• The material must be set from the Fluid material list, which can point to any material
in the model.
• The Volume fraction of the immobile fluid θg {1,2,3,4,5} should be set.
The total volume fraction of immobile fluids is calculated from

θg =  θgi
i

The volume fraction available for mobile fluids (that is, the effective porosity) is then
calculated from

θL = 1 – θp – θg

where the total volume fraction of immobile solids is calculated from

θp =  θpi
i

HEAT CONDUCTION
For the same number of fluids selected under Immobile Fluids, the defaults for the
Thermal conductivity kg use values From material. For User defined select Isotropic,
Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity and other values or expressions in the fields or matrices.

The effective conductivity for the equivalent immobile fluid is calculated from

kg =  θgi kgi
i

When one or more than one solid is selected in the Immobile Solids section, the effective
conductivity of immobile solids and immobile fluids can be calculated in three different
ways:

• If Volume average is selected under Effective Thermal Conductivity, the effective

conductivity of the solid-fluid system is given by

412 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 k eff = θ p k p + θ g k g + θ L k L

where kp and kg are the effective conductivities of immobile solids and fluids.
• If Reciprocal average is selected under Effective Thermal Conductivity, the effective
conductivity is calculated from

1- θp θg θL
-------- = ------ + ------ + ------
k eff kp kg kL

where kp and kg are the effective conductivities of immobile solids and fluids.
• If Power law is selected under Effective Thermal Conductivity, the effective
conductivity is calculated from

θ θ θ
k eff = k pp ⋅ k gg ⋅ k LL

where kp and kg are the effective conductivities of immobile solids and fluids.

THERMODYNAMICS
For the same number of fluids selected under Immobile Fluids, the following properties
should be set:

• Density ρg{1,2,3,4,5}
• Specific heat capacity Cp,g{1,2,3,4,5}
The effective volumetric heat capacity of the composite solid-fluid system is defined as

( ρC p ) eff =  θpi ρpi Cp, pi +  θgi ρgi Cp, gi + θL ρL Cp, L

i i

The Immobile Fluids node requires the Subsurface Flow Module. For a
detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit
http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Porous matrix model is set to Extended under the Physical Model section:
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Porous Medium>Immobile Fluids

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
and Porous matrix model is set to Extended under the Physical Model section. For

DOMAIN FEATURES | 413

 example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium>Immobile Fluids

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Porous Medium selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Porous Medium>Immobile Fluids

Initial Values
This node adds an initial value for the temperature that can serve as an initial condition
for a transient simulation or as an initial guess for a nonlinear solver. In addition to the
default Initial Values node always present in the interface, you can add more Initial
Values nodes if needed.

INITIAL VALUES
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the initial value of the Temperature T
(SI unit: K). The default value is approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20 ºC).
Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node
under Definitions.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Solids>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Initial Values
Bioheat Transfer>Initial Values

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Initial Values

Initial Values (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium interface)

This node adds an initial value for the radiative intensity that can serve as an initial
condition for a transient simulation or as an initial guess for a nonlinear solver.

414 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

INITIAL VALUES
Enter a value or expression for the initial value of the Radiative intensity I (SI unit: W/
m2). This initial value is used by all the beams defined in the model.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media>Initial Values

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media selected:
Domains>Initial Values

Irreversible Transformation
This subnode should be used to model thermally induced irreversible transformations
in solids.

IRREVERSIBLE TRANSFORMATION
Three models are available to define the material transformation. Select the
Transformation model — Temperature threshold (the default), Arrhenius kinetics, or User
defined. The first two models use integral forms over time to express the fraction of
transformation θit as a function of temperature, while you can set it manually with the
third option.

Temperature threshold
For Temperature threshold, select the type of analysis—Overheating analysis (the
default) or Overcooling analysis, depending on the expected temperature variations. See
the Parameters section for the additional settings specific to each type of analysis.

Arrhenius kinetics
For Arrhenius kinetics, define the parameters used in the Arrhenius equation to
compute the degree of transformation (see Arrhenius Kinetics for more details):

• Frequency factor A in the Arrhenius equation. Default is taken From material. For
User defined enter a value or an expression.
• Activation energy ΔE in the Arrhenius equation. Default is taken From material. For
User defined enter a value or an expression.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 415

 • Polynomial order n of the (1-α) factor to define a polynomial Arrhenius kinetics
equation.
• Enthalpy change L to define the enthalpy variation associated with the
transformation. The following heat source is added to the right-hand side of
Equation 6-12 in Solid node:

∂θ it
Q = – ρL ----------
∂t

User defined
Enter values or expressions for the Enthalpy change L and the Fraction of transformation
θit to define the heat source associated with the transformation as:

∂θ it
Q = – ρL ----------
∂t

Specify Different Material Properties

Specific thermodynamics properties before and after complete transformation may be
defined by selecting the Specify different material properties for the transformed state
check box.

Choose a Transformed material, which can point to any material in the model. The
default uses the Domain material. The properties before transformation are the ones
specified in the Heat Conduction, Solid and Thermodynamics, Solid sections of the parent
Solid node. The effective material properties are dynamically updated with the
transformation evolution.

PARAMETERS

Overheating Analysis
Enter values for:

• Transformation temperature Tit, h to define the (high) temperature that the solid
needs to reach to start getting transformed.
• Transformation time tit, h to define the time needed for the complete transformation
to happen while the temperature is above Tit, h.
• Enthalpy change Lit, h to define the enthalpy variation associated with transformation
due to overheating. The following heat source is added to the right-hand side of
Equation 6-12 in Solid node:

416 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 ∂θ it
Q = – ρL it, h ---------- ( T > T it, h )
∂t

Overcooling Analysis
Enter values for:

• Transformation temperature Tit, c to define the (low) temperature that the solid
needs to reach to start getting transformed.
• Transformation time tit, c to define the time needed for the complete transformation
to happen while the temperature is below Tit, c.
• Enthalpy change Lit, c to define the enthalpy variation associated with transformation
due to overcooling. The following heat source is added to the right-hand side of
Equation 6-12 in Solid node:

∂θ it
Q = ρL it, c ---------- ( T < T it, c )
∂t

HEAT CONDUCTION
This section is available when the Specify different material properties for the
transformed state check box is selected.

Select a Thermal conductivity kd — From material (the default) or User defined, to be

used for transformed solid. For User defined choose Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or
Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal conductivity and enter another
value or expression in the field or matrix.

THERMODYNAMICS
This section is available when the Specify different material properties for the
transformed state check box is selected.

Select a Density ρd and Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp, d — From material (the
default) or User defined, to be used for transformed solid. The heat capacity describes
the amount of heat energy required to produce a unit temperature change in a unit
mass.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN FEATURES | 417

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid>Irreversible Transformation

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Solid>Irreversible Transformation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Irreversible Transformation

Isothermal Domain
This node should be used when the temperature shows sufficiently small spatial
fluctuations to be considered homogeneous in space but not necessarily in time.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

ISOTHERMAL DOMAIN
Two options are available for the Temperature definition into the Isothermal Domain:

• If From heat balance (the default) is selected, the temperature is computed as the
solution of a reduced form of the heat equation due to spatial homogeneity. See
Equation 4-32.
• If From prescribed temperature is selected, the temperature is set to the domain
Temperature T0 that needs to be specified. For User defined, enter a value or

418 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 expression for the Temperature T0. Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an
Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

THERMODYNAMICS
The thermodynamics properties of the Isothermal Domain are set in this section. Two
options are available for the Mass definition:

• If Density is selected, the Density ρ should be specified.

• If Total mass is selected, the Mass m should be specified.
Finally the Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp should be specified.

It is not possible to couple an Isothermal Domain with the Laminar Flow

interface through the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics condition.

• The following conditions of heat exchange can be applied at isothermal

domain interfaces: thermal insulation, continuity, ventilation,
convective heat flux, and thermal contact. See Isothermal Domain
Interface for more details.
• Also see Theory for Lumped Isothermal Domain.

When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Transparent option selected. The domain
selection can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as opaque, add
a new Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

Natural Convection Cooling of a Vacuum Flask: Application Library

path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/
vacuum_flask

DOMAIN FEATURES | 419

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Isothermal domain check box is selected under the Physical Model section:
Heat Transfer>Isothermal Domain
Heat Transfer in Solids>Isothermal Domain
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Isothermal Domain
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Isothermal Domain
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Isothermal Domain
Bioheat Transfer>Isothermal Domain

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Isothermal Domain

Moist Air (HT Interface)

This node should be used to model heat transfer by convection and diffusion in moist
air, by using moisture-dependent thermodynamics properties. It solves Equation 6-4,
with the density ρ (SI unit: kg/m3), the heat capacity at constant pressure Cp (SI unit:
J/(kg·K)), and the thermal conductivity k (SI unit: W/(m·K)) defined as a function of
the quantity of vapor in the moist air.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

420 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Absolute Pressure
The absolute pressure is used in some predefined quantities that include the enthalpy
(the energy flux, for example).

It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied. See Thermodynamics, Fluid.

The default Absolute pressure pA is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the absolute pressure variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Laminar Flow interface is added you
can select Absolute pressure (spf) from the list. The Common model input option
corresponds to the minput.pA variable, set to 1 [atm] by default. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Pressure in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Velocity Field
The default Velocity field u is User defined. For User defined enter values or expressions
for the components based on space dimensions. Or select an existing velocity field in
the component (for example, Velocity field (spf) from a Laminar Flow interface). The
Common model input option corresponds to the minput.u variable. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set values for the Velocity components in the Expression for remaining
selection section.

Concentration
This section can be edited anytime a material property is concentration dependent; for
example, when the Fluid type is set to Moist air with Input quantity set to Concentration.

From the Concentration c (SI unit: mol/m3 or kg/m3) list, select an existing
concentration variable from another physics interface, if any concentration variables
exist, User defined to enter a value or expression for the concentration, or Common
model input which corresponds to the minput.c variable.

THERMODYNAMICS, FLUID
The available Input quantity options to define the amount of vapor in the moist air are
the following:

• Vapor mass fraction ω to define the ratio of the vapor mass to the total mass.
• Concentration to define the amount of water vapor in the total volume. If selected,
a Concentration model input is added in the Model Inputs section.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 421

 • Moisture content xvap, also called mixing ratio or humidity ratio, to define the ratio
of the water vapor mass to the dry air mass.
• Relative humidity φ (the default), a quantity defined between 0 and 1, where 0
corresponds to dry air and 1 to a water vapor-saturated air. The Relative humidity,
temperature condition T φ and Relative humidity, absolute pressure condition p φ
must be specified.

Depending on the selected Input quantity, enter values or expressions for the User
defined option, select an ambient value (for example, an Ambient relative humidity
defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions), or select a value from
a Moisture Transport interface.

• Moist Air Fluid Type

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids

With certain COMSOL products, the Viscous Dissipation (for heat

generated by viscous friction), Pressure Work, and Convectively
Enhanced Conductivity subnodes are available from the context menu
(right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar, Attributes menu.

When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Transparent option selected. The domain
selection can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as opaque, add
a new Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

Evaporative Cooling of Water: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/evaporative_cooling

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

422 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Moist Air>Moist Air
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Moist Air

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Moist Air or Heat Transfer in Building Materials selected:
Domains>Moist Air

Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

This node enables to define the surface-to-surface radiation direction on boundaries
surrounding the domains where it is defined. When several spectral bands are defined,
the opacity can be set for all or only a selection of wavelengths.

When the Radiation direction is defined by Opacity controlled in surface-to-surface

boundary features (Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Diffuse
Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Prescribed Radiosity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interface)), surface-to-surface radiation propagates in non-opaque domains.
Alternatively the Radiation direction can be defined using the normal orientation or on
both sides of boundaries. In this case the Opacity node is ignored. Note that on
boundaries where the Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) is applied, the Radiation direction is Both sides, and the Opacity node is
ignored.

By default, the exterior of the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface is considered as

transparent. To set it as opaque, change the Selection of the Opacity node to All voids in
the Domain Selection section, and set it as Opaque. Depending on the geometry, an
infinite void and several finite voids may be available for the selection.

OPACITY
Depending on the Wavelength dependence of surface properties defined in the Radiation
Settings section of the physics interface settings, different sections display underneath:

• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant, select Opaque

or Transparent to set the domain’s opacity type.
• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or
Multiple spectral bands, set the opacity for each spectral band by selecting the

DOMAIN FEATURES | 423

 corresponding check box in the Opaque column of the table. By default the check
box is selected for all spectral bands.

If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness
is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

Free Convection in a Light Bulb: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/light_bulb

Thermo-Photo-Voltaic Cell: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/tpv_cell

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Opacity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected in the model tree:
Domains>Opacity

Optically Thick Participating Medium

This node should be used when radiation occurs in a medium with high optical
thickness. It models the heating due to the propagation of the rays by modifying the
thermal conductivity with

16n r2 σT 3
k R = -------------------------
3β R

where nr is the refractive index (dimensionless), σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant

(SI unit: W/(m2·K4)), and βR is the extinction coefficient.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

424 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

OPTICALLY THICK PARTICIPATING MEDIUM

This section sets the method of definition of the properties of the participating
medium.

First, define the Refractive index nr (dimensionless) of the participating medium.The

default value, 1, is usually a good approximation for air refractive index.

Then, depending on the available quantities, the extinction coefficient βR can be

specified directly or defined as the sum of the absorption and scattering coefficients.
Also see Rosseland Approximation Theory.

The following options are available from the Specify media properties list:

• Absorption and scattering coefficients (default): in this case βR is defined as

βR = κ + σs and the Absorption and Scattering sections display underneath.
• Extinction coefficient: the default Rosseland mean extinction coefficient βR should be
specified directly.

ABSORPTION
This section sets the absorption property of the participating medium. It is available
when Absorption and scattering coefficients is selected from the Specify media properties
list. The Absorption coefficient κ should be specified. It defines the amount of radiation,
κI(Ω), that is absorbed by the medium.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 425

 SCATTERING
This section sets the scattering property of the participating medium, and is available
when Absorption and scattering coefficients is selected from the Specify media properties
list. The Scattering coefficient σs should be specified..

See Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface)

for the modeling of linear or polynomial anisotropic scattering.

Radiative Cooling of a Glass Plate: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/glass_plate

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid>Optically Thick Participating Medium
Heat Transfer in Solids>Fluid>Optically Thick Participating Medium
Heat Transfer in Solids>Phase Change Material>Optically Thick Participating Medium
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium>Optically Thick Participating Medium
Heat Transfer in Solids>Biological Tissue>Optically Thick Participating Medium
Heat Transfer in Solids>Building Material>Optically Thick Participating Medium

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid, Fluid, Porous Medium, Phase Change Material, Biological Tissue, or
Building Material selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Optically Thick Participating Medium

Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

Out-of-plane heat transfer mechanism is used to reduce a model geometry to 2D or
even 1D when the temperature variation is small in one or more directions; for
example, when the object to model is thin or slender. For the obtained 1D and 2D
components, this node adds a heat flux q0, u for the upside heat flux and a heat flux
q0, d for the downward heat flux to the right-hand side of the heat equation.

For example, in 2D components, heat transfer in solids and heat transfer in fluids are
given by Equation 6-5 and Equation 6-6:

∂T
d z ρC p ------- – ∇ ⋅ q = d z Q + q 0 (6-5)
∂t

426 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 ∂T
d z ρC p  ------- + u ⋅ ∇T = ∇ ⋅ q + d z Q + q 0 (6-6)
 ∂t 

q 0 = q 0, u + q 0, d

The convective heat flux adds the following contribution

q 0 = h u ( T ext, u – T ) + h d ( T ext, d – T )

UPSIDE INWARD HEAT FLUX

The available options are General inward heat flux and Convective heat flux. The settings
are the same as for the Heat Flux node.

DOWNSIDE INWARD HEAT FLUX

The available options are General inward heat flux and Convective heat flux. The settings
are the same as for the Heat Flux node.

See Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer for the formulation of out-of-plane heat

transfer in 1D, 1D axisymmetric, and 2D geometries.

See also Out-of-Plane Domain Fluxes.

Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global

normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer for a Thin Plate: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/thin_plate

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Solids>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

DOMAIN FEATURES | 427

 Heat Transfer in Fluids>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux
Bioheat Transfer>Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Out-of-Plane Heat Flux

Out-of-Plane Radiation
Out-of-plane heat transfer mechanism is used to reduce a model geometry to 2D or
even 1D when the temperature variation is small in one or more directions; for
example, when the object to model is thin or slender. This node models
surface-to-ambient radiation on the upside and downside for the obtained 1D and 2D
components. It adds the following contribution to the right-hand side of Equation 6-5
or Equation 6-6:

ε u σ ( T amb
4
, u – T ) + ε d σ ( T amb, d – T )
4 4 4

UPSIDE PARAMETERS

Surface emissivity
The default Surface emissivity εu (a dimensionless number between 0 and 1) is taken
From material. For User defined, it should be specified. An emissivity of 0 means that
the surface emits no radiation at all while an emissivity of 1 means that it is a perfect
blackbody. The default is 0.

Ambient temperature
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Ambient temperature Tamb, u. The
default value is approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20ºC). Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

428 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

DOWNSIDE PARAMETERS
Follow the instructions for the Upside Parameters section to define the downside
parameters εd and Tamb, d.

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer

Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global

normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer for a Thin Plate: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/thin_plate

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Out-of-Plane Radiation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Out-of-Plane Radiation
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Out-of-Plane Radiation
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Out-of-Plane Radiation
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Out-of-Plane Radiation
Bioheat Transfer>Out-of-Plane Radiation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface>Out-of-Plane Radiation

DOMAIN FEATURES | 429

 Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium
Interface)
This node should be used when radiation occurs in a medium not completely
transparent, in which the radiation rays interact with the medium. It computes the
heating due to the propagation of the rays, and takes into account the absorbed, the
emitted, and the scattered radiation, depending on the Radiation discretization method
selected in the Participating Media Settings section of the interface.

It computes the radiative heat source term Q (SI unit: W/m3), defined by:

Q = κ ( G – 4πI b ( T ) )

where

• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1).

• G is the incident radiation (SI unit: W/m2).
• Ib(T) is the blackbody radiative intensity (SI unit: W/(m2·sr)), defined as
2 4
nr σ T
I b ( T ) = --------------------
π

• nr is the refractive index (dimensionless).

• σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (SI unit: W/(m2·K4)).
• T is the temperature (SI unit: K)

G is defined by

G= 4π I ( Ω ) dΩ
where

• I(Ω) is the radiative intensity (SI unit: W/(m2·sr)) at a given position following the
Ω direction, that satisfies the radiative transfer equation
σs 4π
Ω ⋅ ∇I ( Ω ) = κ I b ( T ) – β I ( Ω ) + ------
4π 0 I ( Ω′ ) φ ( Ω′, Ω ) dΩ′

• β = κ + σs is the extinction coefficient (SI unit: 1/m).

• σs is the scattering coefficient (SI unit: 1/m).
• φ ( Ω′, Ω ) is the scattering phase function (dimensionless)

430 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

If.the Radiation discretization method is Discrete ordinates method, G is defined by

G=  ωi Ii
i=1

and

N
σs
S i ⋅ ∇I i = κI b ( T ) – βI i + ------
4π  ω j I j φ ( S j, S i )
j=1

where

• Si is the i-th discrete ordinate.

• Ii is the i-th component of the radiative intensity.
• ωj is the i-th quadrature weight.
If the Radiation discretization method is P1 approximation, G is the solution of the
following equation

∇ ⋅ ( D P1 ∇G ) – κ ( G – 4πI b ) = 0 (6-7)

where DP1 is the P1 diffusion coefficient.

The characteristics of the two available radiation discretization methods are

summarized in the following table.
TABLE 6-3: DISCRETIZATION METHODS FOR PARTICIPATING MEDIUM (RPM INTERFACE)

OPTION DOM P1

Optical All τ>>1

thickness
validity
Absorption Yes Yes
modeling
Emission Yes Yes
modeling
Scattering Linear Linear
modeling Polynomial
Computational High: up to 80 Medium: 1
cost additional additional
degrees of degree of
freedom (Ii) freedom (G)

DOMAIN FEATURES | 431

 If radiative emission may be neglected, the Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interface) node may be used instead. The table
below describes the different effects accounted for by the interfaces found under the
Heat Transfer>Radiation branch ( ).
TABLE 6-4: RADIATION EFFECTS COMPUTED BY THE RADIATION INTERFACES

RADIATION RPM RASM RBAM

EFFECT

Absorption Yes Yes Yes

Scattering Yes Yes No
Emission Yes No No

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used.
The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

ABSORPTION
The Absorption coefficient κ should be specified. It defines the amount of radiation,
κI(Ω), that is absorbed by the medium.

SCATTERING
This section sets the scattering property of the participating medium. The Scattering
coefficient σs should be specified.

Choose in addition the Scattering type: Isotropic, Linear anisotropic, Polynomial

anisotropic (only with Discrete ordinates method), or Henyey-Greenstein (only with
Discrete ordinates method).

432 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

This setting provides options to approximate the scattering phase function φ using the
cosine of the scattering angle, μ0:

• Isotropic (the default) corresponds to the scattering phase function φ(μ0) = 1.

• For Linear anisotropic it defines the scattering phase function as φ (μ0) = 1 + a1μ0.
Enter the Legendre coefficient a1.
• For Polynomial anisotropic it defines the scattering phase function as
12

φ ( μ0 ) = 1 +  am Pm ( μ0 )
m=1

Enter each Legendre coefficient a1, …, a12 as required.

• For Henyey-Greenstein it defines the scattering phase function as

2
1 1–η
φ ( μ 0 ) = ---- ⋅ ------------------------------------------------
3⁄2
-
K 2
( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

where – 1 < η < 1 is the anisotropy parameter and K is defined as follows to produce
a normalized phase function:
2
1 1–η
K = ------ ⋅
4π  ------------------------------------------------
2 3⁄2
- dΩ
4π ( 1 + η – 2ημ 0 )

For Linear anisotropic and Polynomial anisotropic, select the Normalize phase function
check box to define a phase function such as

 φ ( μ0 ) dΩ = 4π
4π

The normalization is automatically applied for the Henyey-Greenstein option.

INITIAL VALUES
When Discrete ordinates method is selected as the Radiation discretization method for
the physics interface, the Initial radiative intensity I should be specified. The default is
rpm.Ibinit, which is the blackbody radiative intensity at initial temperature.

When P1 approximation is selected as the Radiation discretization method for the physics
interface, the Initial incident radiation G should be specified. The default is

DOMAIN FEATURES | 433

 (4*pi)*rpm.Ibinit, computed from the blackbody radiative intensity at initial
temperature.

• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media

• Discrete Ordinates Method (DOM)
• P1 Approximation Theory

Radiative Heat Transfer in a Utility Boiler: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/boiler

Radiative Cooling of a Glass Plate: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/glass_plate

Radiative Heat Transfer in Finite Cylindrical Media: Application

Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/
cylinder_participating_media

Radiative Heat Transfer in Finite Cylindrical Media—P1 Method:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/
cylinder_participating_media_p1

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Participating Medium

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media selected:
Domains>Radiation in Participating Media>Participating Medium

Phase Change Material

This subnode should be used to specify the properties of a phase change material
according to the apparent heat capacity formulation, when modeling heat transfer in
solids, fluids, and porous media. This formulation gets its name from the fact that the
latent heat is included as an additional term in the heat capacity. Up to five transitions
in phase per material are supported.

434 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

NUMBER OF PHASE TRANSITIONS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.
The Number of phase transitions to model is set in this section. In most cases, only one
phase transition is needed to simulate solidification, melting, or evaporation. If you
want to model successive melting and evaporation, or any couple of successive phase
transformations, choose an alternative value in the Number of phase transitions list. The
maximum value is 5.

Depending on the Number of phase transitions, several parts display in the Phase Change
section, and several Phase sections display underneath.

DENSITY
This section is only available when the subnode is added under the Solid node. In this
particular case, a single density should be defined for all phases to ensure mass
conservation on the material frame. Default is taken From material. For User defined,
enter a value or expression for ρ. Note that this setting overrides the setting in the
Thermodynamics, Solid section of the parent Solid node.

PHASE CHANGE
The parameters for the definition of the transition temperature intervals are set in this
section.

Each transition is assumed to occur smoothly in a temperature interval between

Tpc, j → j + 1 − ΔTj → j + 1 ⁄ 2 and Tpc, j → j + 1 + ΔTj → j + 1 ⁄ 2, releasing a total heat per
unit volume equal to Lj →j + 1.

The Phase change temperature between phase 1 and phase 2 Tpc, 1 → 2 should be set to
define the center of the first transition interval. The default is 273.15 K. Enter any
additional phase change temperatures as per the Number of phase transitions.

The Transition interval between phase 1 and phase 2 ΔT1 → 2 should be set to define the
width of the first transition interval. The default is 10 K. Enter any additional transition
intervals as per the Number of phase transitions.

The value of ΔTj → j + 1 must be strictly positive. A value near 0 K corresponds to a

behavior close to a pure substance.

Open the Sketch section for more details about these parameters.

The Latent heat from phase 1 and phase 2 L1 → 2 should be set to define the total heat
per unit volume released during the first transition. Enter any additional latent heat
values as per the Number of phase transitions.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 435

 The value of Lj → j + 1 must be positive. The default is 333 kJ/kg, which corresponds
to the latent heat of fusion of water at a pressure of 1 atm.

About the Phases

The different phases are ordered according to the temperatures of fusion. Hence, the
material properties of phase 1 are valid when T < Tpc, 1 → 2 while the material
properties of phase 2 hold for T > Tpc, 1 → 2.

When more than one transition is modeled, the number of phases exceeds 2 and new
variables are created (for example, Tpc, 2 → 3, ΔT2 → 3 or L2 → 3). The phase change
temperatures Tpc, j → j + 1 are increasing and satisfy

T pc, 1 → 2 < T pc, 2 → 3 < …

This defines distinct domains of temperature bounded by Tpc, j − 1 → j and Tpc, j → j + 1

where the material properties of phase j only apply.

In addition, the values of ΔTj → j + 1 are chosen so that the ranges between
Tpc, j → j + 1 − ΔTj → j + 1 ⁄ 2 and Tpc, j → j + 1 + ΔTj → j + 1 ⁄ 2 do not overlap. If this
condition is not satisfied, unexpected behavior can occur because some phases would
never form completely. The values of ΔTj → j + 1 must all be strictly positive.

PHASE
In each Phase section (based on the Number of phase transitions), the thermal
conductivity and thermodynamics properties of each phase must be set. Then, within
the transition interval, there is a “mushy zone” with mixed material properties.

Select a Material, phase [1,2,...], which can point to any material in the model. The
default uses the Domain material.

When the Phase Change Material subnode is added under a Solid node, the following
material properties should be set:

• Thermal conductivity ki. The default uses the material values for phase i. For User
defined select Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the
characteristics of the thermal conductivity, and enter another value or expression.
The default is 1 W/(m·K).
• Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp, i. The default is 4200 J/(kg·K).

Note that these settings override the settings of the Heat Conduction, Solid and
Thermodynamics, Solid sections of the parent Solid node.

436 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

When the Phase Change Material subnode is added under a Fluid or Porous Medium
node, the following material properties should be set:

• Thermal conductivity ki. The default uses the material values for phase i. For User
defined select Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the
characteristics of the thermal conductivity, and enter another value or expression.
The default is 1 W/(m·K).
• Density ρi. The default is 1000 kg/m3.
• Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp, i. The default is 4200 J/(kg·K).
• Ratio of specific heats γi. The default is 1.1.

Note that these settings override the settings of the Heat Conduction, Fluid and
Thermodynamics, Fluid sections of the parent node. In porous media, phase change is
considered in the fluid material only.

Theory for Heat Transfer with Phase Change

It is useful to choose three or more phase transitions to handle extra

changes of material properties such as in mixtures of compounds, metal
alloys, composite materials, or allotropic varieties of a substance. For
example, α, γ, and δ-iron are allotropes of solid iron that can be
considered as phases with distinct phase change temperatures.

When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Transparent option selected. The domain
selection can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as opaque, add
a new Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 437

 To satisfy energy and mass conservation in phase change models,
particular attention should be paid to the density in time simulations.
When the material density is not constant over time — for example,
dependent on the temperature — volume change is expected. The
transport velocity field and the density must be defined so that mass is
conserved locally. A The Moving Mesh Interface (described in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual) can be used to account for
model deformation.

Phase Change: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Phase_Change/phase_change

Continuous Casting: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Thermal_Processing/continuous_casting

Cooling and Solidification of Metal: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Processing/cooling_solidification_metal

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid>Phase Change Material
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Fluid>Phase Change Material
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Porous Medium>Phase Change Material

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Solid>Phase Change Material

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid, Fluid, or Porous Medium selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Phase Change Material

Porous Medium
This node uses the following version of the heat equation to model heat transfer in a
porous matrix filled with a fluid:

∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q (6-8)
∂t

438 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 q = – k eff ∇T (6-9)

with the following material properties, fields, and sources:

• ρ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the fluid density.

• Cp (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the fluid heat capacity at constant pressure.
• (ρCp)eff (SI unit: J/(m3·K)) is the effective volumetric heat capacity at constant
pressure defined by an averaging model to account for both solid matrix and fluid
properties.
• q is the conductive heat flux (SI unit: W/m2).
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the fluid velocity field, either an analytic expression or the
velocity field from a Fluid Flow interface. u should be interpreted as the Darcy
velocity, that is, the volume flow rate per unit cross sectional area. The average linear
velocity (the velocity within the pores) can be calculated as uL = u ⁄ θL, where θL is
the fluid’s volume fraction, or equivalently the porosity.
• keff (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the effective thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if
the thermal conductivity is anisotropic), defined by an averaging model to account
for both solid matrix and fluid properties.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as
separate physics features. See Heat Source node and Viscous Dissipation subnode
for example.

For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the first
term disappears.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 439

 The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Absolute Pressure
The absolute pressure is used in some predefined quantities that include the enthalpy
(the energy flux, for example).

It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied. See Thermodynamics, Fluid.

The default Absolute pressure pA is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the absolute pressure variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Laminar Flow interface is added you
can select Absolute pressure (spf) from the list. The Common model input option
corresponds to the minput.pA variable, set to 1 [atm] by default. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Pressure in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Velocity Field
The default Velocity field u is User defined. For User defined enter values or expressions
for the components based on space dimensions. Or select an existing velocity field in
the component (for example, Velocity field (spf) from a Laminar Flow interface). The
Common model input option corresponds to the minput.u variable. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set values for the Velocity components in the Expression for remaining
selection section.

Concentration
This section can be edited anytime a material property is concentration dependent; for
example, when the Fluid type is set to Moist air with Input quantity set to Concentration.

From the Concentration c (SI unit: mol/m3 or kg/m3) list, select an existing
concentration variable from another physics interface, if any concentration variables

440 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

exist, User defined to enter a value or expression for the concentration, or Common
model input which corresponds to the minput.c variable.

FLUID MATERIAL
Select any component material from the list to define the Fluid material. The default
uses the Domain material. It makes it possible to define different material properties for
the fluid phase when the domain material corresponds to the solid phase (porous
matrix) material.

HEAT CONDUCTION, FLUID

The thermal conductivity k describes the relationship between the heat flux vector q
and the temperature gradient ∇T in q = −k∇T, which is Fourier’s law of heat
conduction. Enter this quantity as power per length and temperature.

The default Thermal conductivity k is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar which
will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values or
expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

THERMODYNAMICS, FLUID
This section sets the thermodynamics properties of the fluid.

The heat capacity at constant pressure Cp describes the amount of heat energy required
to produce a unit temperature change in a unit mass.

The ratio of specific heats γ is the ratio of the heat capacity at constant pressure, Cp, to
the heat capacity at constant volume, Cv. When using the ideal gas law to describe a
fluid, specifying γ is sufficient to evaluate Cp. For common diatomic gases such as air,
γ = 1.4 is the standard value. Most liquids have γ = 1.1 while water has γ = 1.0. γ is used
in the streamline stabilization and in the variables for heat fluxes and total energy
fluxes. It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied.

The available Fluid type options are Gas/Liquid (default), Moist air, or Ideal gas. After
selecting a Fluid type from the list, further settings display underneath.

Gas/Liquid
This option specifies the Density, the Heat capacity at constant pressure, and the Ratio
of specific heats for a general gas or liquid.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 441

 Ideal Gas
This option uses the ideal gas law to describe the fluid. Only two properties are needed
to define the thermodynamics of the fluid:

• The gas constant, with two options for the Gas constant type: Specific gas constant
Rs or Mean molar mass Mn. If Mean molar mass is selected the software uses the
universal gas constant R = 8.314 J/(mol·K), which is a built-in physical constant, to
compute the specific gas constant.
• Either the Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp or Ratio of specific heats γ by
selecting the option from the Specify Cp or γ list. For an ideal gas, it is sufficient to
specify either Cp or the ratio of specific heats, γ, as these properties are dependent.

Moist Air
If Moist air is selected, the thermodynamics properties are defined as a function of the
quantity of vapor in the moist air. The available Input quantity options to define the
amount of vapor in the moist air are the following:

• Vapor mass fraction (the default) to define the ratio of the vapor mass to the total
mass.
• Concentration to define the amount of water vapor in the total volume. If selected,
a Concentration model input is automatically added in the Model Inputs section.
• Moisture content (also called mixing ratio or humidity ratio) to define the ratio of
the water vapor mass to the dry air mass.
• Relative humidity φ , a quantity defined between 0 and 1, where 0 corresponds to
dry air and 1 to a water vapor-saturated air. The Relative humidity, temperature
condition T φ and Relative humidity, absolute pressure condition p φ must be
specified.

IMMOBILE SOLIDS
This section sets the material and volume fraction of the porous matrix.

If the Standard porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model, select any
component material in the Solid material list. The Volume fraction θp for the solid
material should be specified. For User defined, enter a value or expression. Or select an
existing volume fraction in the component (for example, Volume fraction (dl/dlm1)
from a Darcy’s Law interface).

If the Extended porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model (with the
Subsurface Flow Module), the Number of solids can be set from 1 to 5. Then for each
solid a Solid material list and a Volume fraction field display underneath.

442 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The total volume fraction of solid material is given by

θp =  θpi
i

and the available volume fraction for the mobile fluid is defined as

θL = 1 –  θpi
i

In this node you specify the volume fraction of solid material θp, whereas
in other nodes the volume fraction of pores (or porosity) εp = 1 − θp is
required instead. See Porous Matrix Properties in the CFD Module User’s
Guide for an example.

HEAT CONDUCTION, POROUS MATRIX

The thermal conductivity kp describes the relationship between the heat flux vector q
and the temperature gradient ∇T in q = −kp∇T, which is Fourier’s law of heat
conduction. Enter this quantity as power per length and temperature.

The default Thermal conductivity kp is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar which
will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values or
expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

When the Extended porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model (with the
Subsurface Flow Module), and more than one solid is selected in the Immobile Solids
section, the thermal conductivities kpi should be specified for each immobile solid. The
average property for the porous matrix is given by:

kp =  θpi kpi
i

THERMODYNAMICS, POROUS MATRIX

This section sets the thermodynamics properties of the porous matrix.

The specific heat capacity describes the amount of heat energy required to produce a
unit temperature change in a unit mass of the solid material.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 443

 The Density ρp and the Specific heat capacity Cp, p should be specified. For From
Material option, see Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame if a
temperature-dependent density should be set.

The effective volumetric heat capacity of the solid-liquid system is calculated from

( ρC p ) eff = θ p ρ p C p, p + ( 1 – θ p )ρC p

When the Extended porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model (with the
Subsurface Flow Module), and more than one solid is selected in the Immobile Solids
section, the Density and Specific heat capacity should be specified for each immobile
solid.

The effective volumetric heat capacity of the composite solid-fluid system is defined as

 
( ρC p ) eff =  θpi ρpi Cp, pi +  1 –  θpi ρCp
i i

EFFECTIVE THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY

This section sets the averaging model for the computation of the Effective conductivity
by accounting for both solid matrix and fluid properties. The following options are
available with either the Subsurface Flow Module or the Heat Transfer Module:

• Volume average (default), which computes the effective conductivity of the

solid-fluid system as the weighted arithmetic mean of fluid and porous matrix
conductivities:
k eff = θ p k p + ( 1 – θ p )k

• Reciprocal average, which computes the effective conductivity of the solid-fluid

system as the weighted harmonic mean of fluid and porous matrix conductivities:

1- θp 1 – θp
-------- = ------ + ---------------
k eff kp k

• Power law, which computes the effective conductivity of the solid-fluid system as the
weighted geometric mean of fluid and porous matrix conductivities:

θ ( 1 – θp )
k eff = k pp ⋅ k

444 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

When the Extended porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model (with the
Subsurface Flow Module), and more than one solid is selected in the Immobile Solids
section, these averaging models are modified in the following way:

• Volume average:

 
k eff =  θpi kpi +  1 –  θpi k
i i

• Reciprocal average:

 θpi  1
1-
 θpi ------------------------ +  1 –  θpi --k-
-------- i
=
k eff
i  θpi kpi i
i

• Power law:

  θ pi


 
 θ pi k pi
 i 
i 1 –
  θ 
pi

k eff =  -----------------------
- ⋅k i

 θ pi 
 
 i 

• Moist Air Fluid Type

• Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Porous Media

With certain COMSOL products, the Thermal Dispersion, Viscous

Dissipation, Geothermal Heating and Immobile Fluids subnodes are
available from the context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the
Physics toolbar, Attributes menu.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 445

 When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Opaque option selected. The domain selection
can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as transparent, add a new
Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

Evaporation in Porous Media with Small Evaporation Rates:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/
evaporation_porous_media_small_rate

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Porous Medium

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Porous Medium

Pressure Work
This subnode adds the following contribution to the right-hand side of the Heat
Transfer in Fluids equation to model the result of heating under adiabatic compression
as well as some thermoacoustic effects:

∂p A
Q p = α p T  ---------- + u ⋅ ∇ p A (6-10)
 ∂t 

446 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

where αp is the coefficient of thermal expansion defined as:

1 ∂ρ
α p = – ---  
ρ ∂T p

The pressure work is computed using the relative pressure, and is generally small for
low Mach number flows.

No settings are required.

When the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling node is added, the

effect of pressure work can be taken into account by selecting the Include
work done by pressure changes check box under the Flow Heating section.
In this case, the Pressure Work feature is overridden by the multiphysics
coupling node’s contribution.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Fluids

A similar term can be included to account for thermoelastic effects in

solids. See Thermoelastic Damping.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Fluid>Pressure Work

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Solids>Fluid>Pressure Work
Heat Transfer in Moist Air>Moist Air>Pressure Work

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Fluid selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Pressure Work

Shape Memory Alloy

This node models heat transfer in shape memory alloys, and accounts for the
Martensite and Austenite composition. This feature is designed to be coupled with the

DOMAIN FEATURES | 447

 Shape Memory Alloy feature of the Structural Mechanics interface which computes the
alloy composition from the mechanical and thermal loads. Changes in Martensite and
Austenite composition modify the alloys thermal properties (thermal conductivity and
heat capacity), and release (from Austenite to Martensite state) or absorb (from
Martensite to Austenite state) energy.

It uses this version of the heat equation to model heat transfer in alloys:

∂T
ρC p ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q
∂t (6-11)
q = – k∇ T

with the following material properties, fields, and sources:

• ρ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the alloy’s density.

• Cp (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the alloy’s heat capacity at constant pressure.
• k (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the alloy’s thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if the
thermal conductivity is anisotropic).
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the velocity field defined by the Translational Motion subnode
when parts of the model are moving in the material frame.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as
separate physics features. See Heat Source node and Thermoelastic Damping
subnode for example.
For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the first
term disappears.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

448 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

SHAPE MEMORY ALLOY

The Martensite volume fraction, ξ, and the Density of the alloy (defined for both
Austenite and Martensite states) should be set in this section.

In addition, the following options are available for the computation of the Effective
conductivity by accounting for both Austenite and Martensite properties:

• Volume average (default), which computes the effective conductivity of the alloy as
the weighted arithmetic mean of Austenite and Martensite conductivities:
k = ξk M + ( 1 – ξ )k A

• Reciprocal average, which computes the effective conductivity of the alloy as the
weighted harmonic mean of Austenite and Martensite conductivities:
1 ξ 1–ξ
--- = ------- + ------------
k kM kA

• Power law, which computes the effective conductivity of the alloy as the weighted
geometric mean of Austenite and Martensite conductivities:

ξ (1 – ξ)
k = kM ⋅ kA

AUSTENITE
Select any component material from the list to define the Austenite material properties.
The default uses the Domain material.

The default Thermal conductivity kA is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal

DOMAIN FEATURES | 449

 conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar which
will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values or
expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

The default Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp,A is taken From material. For User
defined enter a value or expression.

MARTENSITE
Select any component material from the list to define the Martensite material
properties. The default uses the Domain material.

The default Thermal conductivity kM is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar which
will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values or
expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

The default Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp,M is taken From material. For User
defined enter a value or expression.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Heat transfer in alloys check box is selected under the Physical Model section:

Heat Transfer in Solids>Shape Memory Alloy

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in alloys check box is selected under
the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Shape Memory Alloy

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Shape Memory Alloy

Solid
This node uses this version of the heat equation to model heat transfer in solids:

450 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 ∂T
ρC p ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T + ∇ ⋅ q = Q
∂t (6-12)
q = – k∇ T

with the following material properties, fields, and sources:

• ρ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the solid density.

• Cp (SI unit: J/(kg·K)) is the solid heat capacity at constant pressure.
• k (SI unit: W/(m·K)) is the solid thermal conductivity (a scalar or a tensor if the
thermal conductivity is anisotropic).
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the velocity field defined by the Translational Motion subnode
when parts of the model are moving in the material frame.
• Q (SI unit: W/m3) is the heat source (or sink). Add one or several heat sources as
separate physics features. See Heat Source node and Thermoelastic Damping
subnode for example.
For a steady-state problem the temperature does not change with time and the first
term disappears.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available

DOMAIN FEATURES | 451

 options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

SOLID MATERIAL
This section is available only when the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics
coupling is included in the component to model porous media. It makes it possible to
define different material properties for the porous matrix and the fluid.

Select any material from the list to define the Solid material. The default uses the
Domain material. See Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame for
the setting of a temperature-dependent density.

HEAT CONDUCTION, SOLID

The thermal conductivity k describes the relationship between the heat flux vector q
and the temperature gradient ∇T in q = −k∇T, which is Fourier’s law of heat
conduction. Enter this quantity as power per length and temperature.

The default Thermal conductivity k is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. For Isotropic enter a scalar which
will be used to define a diagonal tensor. For the other options, enter values or
expressions into the editable fields of the tensor.

The components of the thermal conductivity k when given on tensor form (kxx, kyy,
and so on, representing an anisotropic thermal conductivity) are available as ht.kxx,
ht.kyy, and so on (using the default name ht). The single scalar mean effective
thermal conductivity ht.kmean is the mean value of the diagonal elements kxx, kyy,
and kzz.

Fourier’s law assumes that the thermal conductivity tensor is symmetric.

A nonsymmetric tensor can lead to unphysical results.

THERMODYNAMICS, SOLID
This section sets the thermodynamics properties of the solid.

The heat capacity at constant pressure describes the amount of heat energy required
to produce a unit temperature change in a unit mass.

452 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The Density ρ and Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp should be specified.

In addition, the thermal diffusivity α, defined as k ⁄ (ρCp) (SI unit: m2/s), is also a
predefined quantity. The thermal diffusivity can be interpreted as a measure of thermal
inertia (heat propagates slowly where the thermal diffusivity is low, for example). The
components of the thermal diffusivity α, when given on tensor form (αxx, αyy, and so
on, representing an anisotropic thermal diffusivity) are available as ht.alphaTdxx,
ht.alphaTdyy, and so on (using the default physics name ht). The single scalar mean
thermal diffusivity ht.alphaTdMean is the mean value of the diagonal elements αxx,
αyy, and αzz. The denominator ρCp is the effective volumetric heat capacity which is
also available as a predefined quantity, ht.C_eff.

• Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Solids

The Thermoelastic Damping subnode is available from the context menu

(right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar, Attributes menu.

When Surface-to-surface radiation is activated, the Opacity

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode is automatically added
to the entire selection, with Opaque option selected. The domain selection
can’t be edited. To set some part of the domain as transparent, add a new
Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) subnode from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar,
Attributes menu.

Heat Generation in a Disc Brake: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/brake_disc

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

DOMAIN FEATURES | 453

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Solid
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Solid
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Solid
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Solid
Bioheat Transfer>Solid

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface >Solid

Thermal Damage
This node defines a transformation model to account for damage by overheating or
freezing in biological tissues. The transformation indicator is computed by a model
based either on a temperature threshold or on Arrhenius kinetics.

DAMAGED TISSUE
Three methods are available for the analysis; choose the Transformation model:
Temperature threshold (the default), Arrhenius kinetics, or User defined. Depending on
the material properties you have access to, you may choose one of the damage models.

The Arrhenius kinetics method is only applicable to hyperthermia analysis.

For Temperature threshold, define the settings for the Hyperthermia Analysis or
Cryogenic Analysis. See Temperature Threshold for more details on the parameters of
the model.

Hyperthermia Analysis
Enter values for:

• Damage temperature Td, h to define the (high) temperature that the tissue needs to
reach to start getting damaged. The default is 323.15 K.
• Damage time td, h to define the time needed for the necrosis to happen while the
temperature is above Td, h. The default is 50 s.

454 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• Necrosis temperature Tn, h to define the (high) temperature to be reached for the
necrosis to happen instantly. The default is 373.15 K.
• Enthalpy change Ld, h to define the enthalpy variation associated with damage by
hyperthermia. The following heat source is added to the right-hand side of the
bioheat equation:

∂θ d
Q = – ρL d, h --------- ( T > T d, h )
∂t

Cryogenic Analysis
Enter values for:

• Damage temperature Td, c to define the (low) temperature that the tissue needs to
reach to start getting damaged. The default is 273.15 K.
• Damage time td, c to define the time needed for the necrosis to happen while the
temperature is below Td, c. The default is 50 s.
• Necrosis temperature Tn, c to define the (low) temperature to be reached for the
necrosis to happen instantly. The default is 253.15 K.
• Enthalpy change Ld, c to define the enthalpy variation associated with damage by
freezing. The following heat source is added to the right-hand side of the bioheat
equation:

∂θ d
Q = ρL d, c --------- ( T < T d, c )
∂t

Arrhenius kinetics
For Arrhenius kinetics, define the parameters to compute the degree of tissue injury
with the Arrhenius equation (see Arrhenius Kinetics for more details):

• Frequency factor A in the Arrhenius equation. Default is taken From material. For
User defined enter a value or an expression.
• Activation energy ΔE in the Arrhenius equation. Default is taken From material. For
User defined enter a value or an expression.
• Polynomial order n to define a polynomial Arrhenius kinetics equation.
• Enthalpy change L to define the enthalpy variation associated with damage. The
following heat source is added to the right-hand side of the bioheat equation:

∂θ d
Q = – ρL ---------
∂t

DOMAIN FEATURES | 455

 User defined
Enter values or expressions for the Enthalpy change L and the Fraction of transformation
θd to define the heat source associated with the transformation as:

∂θ d
Q = – ρL ---------
∂t

As required, also define how to Specify Different Material Properties for healthy and
damaged tissue.

Specify Different Material Properties

When the Specify different material properties for damaged tissue check box is selected,
choose a Transformed material, which can point to any material in the model. The
default uses the Domain material. The healthy tissue properties correspond to the
properties specified in the Heat Conduction and Thermodynamics sections. The effective
tissue properties change from the healthy tissue properties to the damaged tissue
properties as the damage evolves.

HEAT CONDUCTION
This section is available when the Specify different material properties for damaged tissue
check box is selected.

Select a Thermal conductivity kd —From material (the default) or User defined, to be

used for damaged tissue. For User defined choose Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or
Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal conductivity and enter another
value or expression in the field or matrix.

THERMODYNAMICS
This section is available when the Specify different material properties for damaged tissue
check box is selected.

Select a Density ρd and Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp, d —From material (the
default) or User defined, to be used for damaged tissue. The heat capacity describes the
amount of heat energy required to produce a unit temperature change in a unit mass.

• Theory for Bioheat Transfer

• Biological Tissue
• Bioheat

456 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 There are specific predefined materials available in the Bioheat material
database. See Materials Overview and Bioheat Materials Database in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Hepatic Tumor Ablation: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/tumor_ablation

Microwave Heating of a Cancer Tumor: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/microwave_cancer_therapy

Modeling a Conical Dielectric Probe for Skin Cancer Diagnosis:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/
conical_dielectric_probe

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Bioheat Transfer>Biological Tissue>Thermal Damage

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in biological tissue check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Biological Tissue>Thermal Damage

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Bioheat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids,
Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media or Heat Transfer in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>interface>Biological Tissue>Thermal Damage

Thermal Dispersion
This subnode should be used to model the heat transfer due to hydrodynamic mixing
in a fluid flowing through a porous medium. It adds an extra term ∇ ⋅ (kdisp∇T) to the
right-hand side of the heat equation in porous media, through the modification of the
effective thermal conductivity keff with the dispersive thermal conductivity kdisp:

∂T
( ρC p ) eff ------- + ρC p u ⋅ ∇T = ∇ ⋅ ( k eff ∇T ) + Q
∂t

and specifies values for the longitudinal and transverse dispersivities.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 457

 DISPERSIVITIES
This section sets the Longitudinal dispersivity λlo and Transverse dispersivity λtr used for
the definition of the tensor of dispersive thermal conductivity:

( k disp ) ij = ρ L C p, L D ij

where Dij is the dispersion tensor

uk ul
D ij = λ ijkl ------------
u

and λijkl is the fourth-order dispersivity tensor

λ lo – λ tr
λ ijkl = λ tr δ ij δ kl + --------------------- ( δ ik δ jl + δ il δ jk )
2

If the Extended porous matrix model is selected under Physical Model (with the
Subsurface Flow Module), the Transverse horizontal dispersivity λtr, h and Transverse
vertical dispersivity λtr, v are defined instead of the Transverse dispersivity λtr.

In this case it is assumed that z is the vertical direction and it defines the dispersion
tensor as

D ij =

λ lo u 2 + λ tr, h v 2 + λ tr, v w 2 ( λ lo – λ tr, h )uv ( λ lo – λ tr, v )uw

1-
------ ( λ lo – λ tr, h )uv λ tr, h u 2 + λ lo v 2 + λ tr, v w 2 ( λ lo – λ tr, v )vw
u
( λ lo – λ tr, v )uw ( λ lo – λ tr, v )vw λ tr, v u 2 + λ tr, v v 2 + λ lo w 2

The former formulation corresponds to the general formulation when

λtr, h = λtr, v.

Porous Medium

458 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 The Thermal Dispersion node is only available with certain COMSOL
products. For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each
product, visit http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Porous Medium>Thermal Dispersion

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium>Thermal Dispersion

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Porous Medium selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Thermal Dispersion

Thermoelastic Damping
This subnode should be used to model heat generation due to changes in stress, which
may be important in small structures vibrating at high frequencies.

THERMOELASTIC DAMPING
The Thermoelastic damping Qted should be specified either as a User defined value, or as
the thermoelastic damping contribution straight from the solid mechanics interfaces,
when you add a Thermal Expansion subnode (with the Structural Mechanics Module).
In the latter case it is defined by

∂S
Q ted = – αT: -------
∂t

where S is the second Piola-Kirchhoff tensor and α is the coefficient of thermal

expansion.

• Solid
• Thermal Expansion (for Materials) in the Structural Mechanics
Module User’s Guide

DOMAIN FEATURES | 459

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid>Thermoelastic Damping

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Solid>Thermoelastic Damping

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Thermoelastic Damping

Thickness
Use this node with 2D components to model domains with another thickness than the
overall thickness that is specified in the Heat Transfer interface Physical Model section.
In 2D geometries, the temperature is assumed to be constant in the out-of-plane
direction (z direction with default spatial coordinate names). The heat equation is
modified to account for that. See Equation 4-145 and Equation 4-146.

THICKNESS
Specify a value for the Thickness dzof the domain in the out-of-plane direction. This
value replaces the overall thickness in the domains that are selected in the Domain
Selection section, and is used to multiply some terms into the heat equation.

Out-of-Plane Heat Transfer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Thickness
Bioheat Transfer>Thickness

460 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Domains>interface>Thickness

Translational Motion
This subnode provides movement by translation to the model for heat transfer in
solids. It adds the following contribution to the right-hand side of Equation 6-12,
defined in the parent node:

– ρ C p u trans ⋅ ∇T

The contribution describes the effect of a moving coordinate system, which is required
to model, for example, a moving heat source.

Special care must be taken on boundaries where n ⋅ utrans ≠ 0. The Heat

Flux boundary condition does not, for example, work on boundaries
where n ⋅ utrans < 0.

DOMAIN SELECTION
By default, the selection is the same as for the Solid node that it is attached to, but it is
possible to use more than one Translational Motion subnode, each covering a subset of
the Solid node’s selection.

TRANSLATIONAL MOTION
The x, y, and z (in 3D) components of the Velocity field utrans should be specified in
this section.

Solid

DOMAIN FEATURES | 461

 Heat Generation in a Disc Brake: Application Library path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/brake_disc

Friction Stir Welding of an Aluminum Plate: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/friction_stir_welding

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Solid>Translational Motion
Bioheat Transfer>Biological Tissue>Translational Motion

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Solid>Translational Motion

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid or Biological Tissue selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Translational Motion

Viscous Dissipation
This subnode should be used to account for the heat source coming from the
transformation of kinetic energy into internal energy due to viscous stresses. Such
effect is expected in fluid regions with large velocity gradients or with high turbulence
levels.

VISCOUS DISSIPATION
The Qvd input should be specified either as a User defined value, or as the viscous
dissipation term contribution straight from the fluid flow interfaces.

For laminar flows, it is defined by

Q vd = τ: ∇u

462 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

where τ is the viscous tensor.

When the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling node is added, the

effect of viscous dissipation can be taken into account by selecting the
Include viscous dissipation check box under the Flow Heating section. In this
case, the Viscous Dissipation feature is overriden by the multiphysics
coupling node’s contribution.

• Fluid
• Porous Medium
• Phase Change Material

This feature was previously called Viscous Heating.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Fluid>Viscous Dissipation
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Phase Change Material>Viscous Dissipation
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Porous Medium>Viscous Dissipation

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Solids>Fluid>Viscous Dissipation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Phase Change Material>Viscous Dissipation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Porous Medium>Viscous Dissipation
Heat Transfer in Moist Air>Moist Air>Viscous Dissipation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Fluid, Phase Change Material, Moist Air, or Porous Medium selected in
the model tree:
Attributes>Viscous Dissipation

DOMAIN FEATURES | 463

 Bo unda r y Fe a t u res
The following boundary nodes and subnodes are available for the Heat Transfer and
Heat Transfer in Shells interfaces:

• Boundary Heat Source • Line Heat Source on Axis

• Deposited Beam Power • Open Boundary
• External Temperature (Thin Layer, • Outflow
Thin Film, Fracture) • Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) interface)
and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
in Shells interface) (Heat Transfer interface)
• Harmonic Perturbation • Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)
• Heat Flux • Temperature
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells • Thermal Contact
Interface)
• Thermal Insulation
• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film,
• Thickness (Heat Transfer in Shells
Fracture)
interface)
• Inflow
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface)
• Initial Values (Heat Transfer in and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
Shells interface) interface)
• Isothermal Domain Interface • Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface)
and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)

For axisymmetric components, COMSOL Multiphysics takes the axial

symmetry boundaries into account and automatically adds an Axial
Symmetry node that is valid on the axial symmetry boundaries only.

464 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The following boundary nodes and subnodes are available for the Surface-to-Surface
Radiation, Radiation in Participating Media, Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media, and Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media interfaces:

• Continuity on Interior Boundary • Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface

(Radiation in Participating Medium Radiation interface)
and Radiation in • Opaque Surface (Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Medium Participating Medium and Radiation
Interfaces) in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
• Continuity (Radiation in Interfaces)
Participating Medium and Radiation • Opaque Surface (Radiative Beam in
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Absorbing Medium Interface)
interfaces)
• Periodic Condition (Radiation in
• Continuity on Interior Boundary Participating Medium and Radiation
(Radiation in Participating Medium in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
and Radiation in interfaces)
Absorbing-Scattering Medium
• Prescribed Radiosity
Interfaces)
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface interface)
Radiation interface)
• Radiation Group
• Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Radiation interface) Interface)
• Incident Intensity (Radiation in • Semi-Transparent Surface
Participating Medium and Radiation (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Medium interface)
Interfaces)
• Symmetry (Radiation in
• Incident Intensity (Radiative Beam Participating Medium and Radiation
in Absorbing Medium Interface) in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
• Initial Values (Surface-to-Surface Interfaces)
Radiation Interface) • Transparent Surface (Radiative
• Layer Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Beam in Absorbing Medium
Radiation interface) Interface)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 465

 Boundary Heat Source
This node models a heat source (or heat sink) that is embedded in the boundary. When
selected as a Pair Boundary Heat Source, it also prescribes that the temperature field is
continuous across the pair. Note that in this case the source term is applied on the
source side.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Boundary Heat
Source section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Boundary Heat Source node is Solid, which specifies that
the heat source Qb is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer
variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally
converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames
for details.
• The Nonsolid option defines Qb in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

466 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

BOUNDARY HEAT SOURCE
Click the General source (the default) or Heat rate button.

• For General source enter a value for the boundary heat source Qb when the default
option, User defined, is selected.
A positive Qb corresponds to heating and a negative Qb corresponds to cooling. For
the general boundary heat source Qb, there are predefined heat sources available
when simulating heat transfer together with electrical or electromagnetic interfaces.
Such sources represent, for example, ohmic heating and induction heating.
• For Heat rate enter the heat rate Pb. In this case Qb = Pb ⁄ A, where A is the total
area of the selected boundaries.

SOURCE POSITION
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

Select a Source position to define a side where the heat source is defined: Layer (the
default), Upside, or Downside. This setting has no effect unless the temperature differs
from one side of the boundary to the other. Typically when Boundary Heat Source
contributes with a Thin Layer feature.

To define the boundary heat source Qb as a function of the temperature,

use the local temperature variable on the selected boundary,
ht.bhs1.Tvar, that corresponds to the appropriate variable (upside,
downside, or average temperature of a layer, wall temperature with
turbulence modeling), depending on the model configurations. See
Boundary Wall Temperature for a thorough description of the boundary
temperature variables.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 467

 Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global
normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

Evaporative Cooling of Water: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/evaporative_cooling

When Line Heat Flux is applied on a pair, the flux is only applied on the
edge adjacent to the source boundary which is in contact with the
destination boundary. Consider adding another pair with opposite source
and destination boundaries to apply a flux on the edge adjacent to the
destination boundary and in contact with the source boundary.

See Identity and Contact Pairs in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for more details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Boundary Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Solids>Boundary Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Boundary Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Boundary Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Boundary Heat Source
Bioheat Transfer>Boundary Heat Source

Heat Transfer in Solids>Pairs>Pair Boundary Heat Source

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Pairs>Pair Boundary Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Pairs>Pair Boundary Heat Source

468 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Heat Transfer in Building Materials>Pairs>Pair Boundary Heat Source
Bioheat Transfer>Pairs>Pair Boundary Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface >Boundary Heat Source
Pairs>interface >Pair Boundary Heat Source

Continuity
This node can be added to pairs. It prescribes that the temperature field is continuous
across the pair. Continuity is only suitable for pairs where the boundaries match.

PAIR SELECTION
Choose the pair on which to apply this condition. A pair has to be created first. See
Identity and Contact Pairs in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more
details.

Thermo-Mechanical Analysis of a Surface-Mounted Resistor:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Stress/
surface_resistor

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Pairs>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Solids>Pairs>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Pairs>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Pairs>Continuity
Bioheat Transfer>Pairs>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Shells>Pairs>Continuity
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Pairs>Continuity
Radiation in Participating Media>Pairs>Continuity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, Bioheat Transfer,

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 469

 Heat Transfer in Shells, Radiation in Participating Media or Surface-to-Surface Radiation
selected:
Pairs>interface>Continuity

Continuity (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in

Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces)
This node can be added to pairs. When the Radiation discretization method is Discrete
ordinates method, it prescribes that the radiative intensity field I is continuous across
the pair. When the Radiation discretization method is P1 approximation, it prescribes that
the incident radiation field G is continuous across the pair. Continuity is only suitable
for pairs where the boundaries match.

PAIR SELECTION
Choose the pair on which to apply this condition. A pair has to be created first. See
Identity and Contact Pairs in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more
details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Pairs>Continuity
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Continuity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media selected:
Pairs>interface>Continuity

Continuity on Interior Boundary (Radiation in Participating

Medium and Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium
Interfaces)
When Discrete ordinates method is selected, this node enables intensity conservation
across internal boundaries. It is the default boundary condition for all interior

470 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

boundaries. For P1 approximation, this boundary condition is not available since it is
not needed.

Radiative Heat Transfer in a Utility Boiler: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/boiler

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Continuity on Interior Boundary
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Continuity on Interior Boundary

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media selected:
Boundaries>Continuity on Interior Boundary

Deposited Beam Power

This node models heat sources brought by narrow beams, such as laser or electron
beams, to a given boundary.

BEAM ORIENTATION
Enter a value for the Beam orientation e. This vector does not need to be normalized.
In 2D axisymmetric components, it is aligned with the z-axis.

BEAM PROFILE
Either select an option for the Beam profile among the Built-in beam profiles, or set the
it as User defined by entering a value for the Deposited beam power density, Qb (SI unit:
W/m2).

For Built-in beam profiles, enter a value for the Deposited beam power P0 and the
coordinates of the Beam origin point O.

Then, select a Distribution type: Gaussian (the default) or Top-hat disk.

• For Gaussian, enter the Standard deviation σ.

• For Top-hat disk, enter the Beam radius R. Smoothing can be applied by entering a
positive Size of transition zone ΔR. The default value of 0 m corresponds to an ideal
discontinuous top-hat profile.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 471

 SOURCE POSITION
To display this section click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

Select a Source position to define a side where the heat source is defined: Layer (the
default), Upside, or Downside. This setting has no effect unless the temperature differs
from one side of the boundary to the other.

The standard deviation of the Gaussian distribution and the radius of the
top-hat distribution can take values smaller than the mesh element size.
For more accurate results, it is important to refine the mesh enough at the
deposited heat source location. Otherwise, an automatic substitution
replaces the standard deviation σ or the beam radius R by the minimum
length to get acceptable results which depends on the mesh element size.

Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global

normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Deposited Beam Power
Heat Transfer in Solids>Deposited Beam Power
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Deposited Beam Power
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Deposited Beam Power
Bioheat Transfer>Deposited Beam Power

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Deposited Beam Power

472 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)
This node is a variant of the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)
node with a surface emissivity equal to zero. Diffuse mirror surfaces are common as
approximations of a surface that is well insulated on one side and for which convection
effects can be neglected on the opposite (radiating) side. It resembles a mirror that
absorbs all irradiation and then radiates it back in all directions. The node adds
radiosity shape function for each spectral band to its selection and uses it as surface
radiosity.

The radiative heat flux on a diffuse mirror boundary is zero.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used.
The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

RADIATION DIRECTION
These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

AMBIENT
These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness
is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 473

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Mirror

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Mirror

Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

Diffuse surfaces reflect radiative intensity uniformly in all directions. This node handles
radiation with a view factor calculation. It is supposed that no radiation is transmitted
through the surface. The feature adds one radiosity shape function per spectral interval
to its selection and uses it as surface radiosity.

It adds a radiative heat source contribution

q = ε ( G – eb ( T ) )

on the side of the boundary where the radiation is defined, where ε is the surface
emissivity, G is the irradiation, and eb(T) is the blackbody hemispherical total emissive
power. Where the radiation is defined on both sides, the radiative heat source is defined
on both sides too.

If specular reflection should be considered, use the Opaque Surface

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node instead.

If no emission should be considered, use the Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface

Radiation interface) node instead.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups have been added, the model inputs
are included here.

There is one standard model input: the Temperature T is used in the expression of the
blackbody radiation intensity and when multiple wavelength intervals are used, for the
fractional emissive power. The temperature model input is also used to determine the
variable that receives the radiative heat source. When the model input does not contain
a dependent variable, the radiative heat source is ignored.

474 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

RADIATION DIRECTION
When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant in the Radiation
Settings section of the physics interface, select a Radiation direction based on the
geometric normal (nx, ny, nz): Opacity controlled (the default), Negative normal
direction, Positive normal direction, Both sides, or None.

• Opacity controlled requires that each boundary is adjacent to exactly one opaque
domain. Opacity is controlled by the Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) domain feature. For external boundaries, the exterior side opacity is
transparent by default but may be edited by setting the Selection of the Opacity
feature on All voids in the Opacity feature.
• Select Negative normal direction to specify that the surface radiates in the negative
normal direction (un vector direction). An arrow indicates the negative normal
direction that corresponds to the direction of the radiation emitted by the surface.
• Select Positive normal direction if the surface radiates in the positive normal direction
(dn vector direction). An arrow indicates the positive normal direction that
corresponds to the direction of the radiation emitted by the surface.
• Select Both sides if the surface radiates on both sides.

When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or Multiple
spectral bands in the Radiation Settings section of the physics interface, select a Radiation
direction for each spectral band: Opacity controlled (the default), Negative normal
direction, Positive normal direction, Both sides, or None. The Radiation direction defines
the radiation direction for each spectral band similarly as when Wavelength dependence
of surface properties is Constant. Defining a radiation direction for each spectral band
makes it possible to build models where the transparency or opacity properties defers
between spectral bands.

This is useful for example to represent glass opaque to radiation outside

of the 0.3–2.5 µm wavelength range.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 475

 None is used when adjacent domains are either both transparent or both opaque for a
given spectral band.

Note that when Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar

and ambient or Multiple spectral bands, the upper bound of the last
spectral band, meant to represent the infinite, is set to 1[mm], for the
computation of the surface material properties.

AMBIENT
Select the Define ambient temperature on each side check box when the ambient
temperature differs between the sides of a boundary. This is needed to define ambient
temperature for a surface that radiates on both sides and that is exposed to a hot
temperature on one side (for example, fire) and to a cold temperature on the other side
(for example, external temperature). By default, Define ambient temperature on each
side is not selected.

Set the Ambient temperature Tamb. For User defined, enter a value or expression. Else,
select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under
Definitions. When Define ambient temperature on each side is selected, define the
Ambient temperature, upside Tamb, u and Ambient temperature, downside Tamb, d,
respectively. The geometric normal points from the downside to the upside.

Set Tamb to the far-away temperature in directions where no other

boundaries obstruct the view. Inside a closed cavity, the ambient view
factor, Famb, is theoretically zero and the value of Tamb therefore should
not matter. It is, however, good practice to set Tamb to T or to a typical
temperature value for the cavity surfaces in such cases because that
minimizes errors introduced by the finite resolution of the view factor
evaluation.

By default, a diffuse irradiation contribution Idiff is included into the external

irradiation. For User defined, enter a value or expression. When considering solar
irradiation, it accounts for the irradiation from the sun, scattered by the atmosphere,
and supposed to be isotropic. Else, select a Clear sky noon diffuse horizontal irradiance
defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

To consider only the direct irradiation defined in the External Radiation Source
feature, clear the Include diffuse irradiance check box.

476 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

FRACTIONAL EMISSIVE POWER
This section is available when the Wavelength dependence of surface properties is
defined as Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral bands for the physics interface (see
Radiation Settings).

When the Fractional emissive power is Blackbody/Graybody, the fractional emissive

power is automatically computed for each spectral band as a function of the band
endpoints and surface temperature.

When the Fractional emissive power is User defined, define the Fractional emissive power,
FEPi for each spectral band. All fractional emissive powers are expected to be in [0,1]
and their sum is expected to be equal to 1. Select the Define fractional emissive power
on each side check box to set specific Upside and Downwside values in the table.

SURFACE EMISSIVITY

In diffuse gray and diffuse spectral radiation models, the surface emissivity
and the absorptivity must be equal. For this reason it is equivalent to
define the surface emissivity or the absorptivity.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless) uses values From material. This is
a property of the material surface that depends both on the material itself and the
structure of the surface. Make sure that a material is defined at the boundary level
(by default materials are defined at the domain level).
• For User defined, set a value or expression. You may set a temperature-dependent
emissivity through the use of the variable rad.T.
Select the Define surface emissivity on each sides check box to set specific values on each
side. The Surface emissivity, upside and Surface emissivity, downside should be set.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless) uses values From material.

• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface emissivity ε. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the emissivity is then averaged on each spectral band
to obtain a piecewise constant emissivity. If the average value of the emissivity on

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 477

 each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each band option to
avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface emissivity for each spectral band. By default, the same emissivity is defined
on both sides. Select the Define initial surface emissivity on each side check box and
fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each
side.

Set the surface emissivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 represents diffuse
mirror and 1 is appropriate for a perfect blackbody. The proper value for a physical
material lies somewhere in-between and can be found from tables or measurements.

When the Radiation direction is set to None for a spectral band, the information set for
this spectral band in the Surface Emissivity section is not used.

• In the notation used here, Bi stands for B1, B2,... up to the maximum
number of spectral intervals.
• If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the
thickness is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for d is still used in the heat transfer equation.

To define temperature dependencies for the user inputs (surface

emissivity for example), use the temperature variable ht.T, that
corresponds to the appropriate variable (upside, downside, or average
temperature of a layer, wall temperature with turbulence modeling),
depending on the model configurations. See Boundary Wall Temperature
for a thorough description of the boundary temperature variables.

Several settings for this node depend on the Wavelength dependence of

surface properties setting, which is defined for the physics interface.

In addition, the Transparent media refractive index is equal to 1 by default.

See Radiation Settings.

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

478 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global
normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Heat Generation in a Disc Brake: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/brake_disc

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Diffuse Surface

External Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture)

Use this subnode to specify the temperature on the exterior side of a thin layer, a thin
film, or a fracture. As a subfeature of Thin Layer, it is only applicable when Layer type
is set to Thermally thick approximation or General, on exterior boundaries. As a
subfeature of Thin Film and Fracture, it is only applicable when Layer type is set to
General, on exterior boundaries.

TEMPERATURE
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature T0. Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

The equation for this condition is T = T0 where T0 is the external temperature to be

prescribed.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 479

 CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

You can specify a harmonic variation of the temperature value in a

frequency domain analysis of perturbation type, by adding a Harmonic
Perturbation subnode. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for more
details.

• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>External Temperature
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Film>External Temperature
Heat Transfer in Solids>Fracture>External Temperature

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Layer>External Temperature

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Layer, Thin Film, or Fracture selected in the model tree:
Attributes>External Temperature

Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat

Transfer in Shells interface)
Use this node to allow heat transfer in fractures on layered materials inside domains. It
can also be used to allow heat transfer in films.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

480 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

Note that this section is not editable when Porous Medium is the default node of the
Heat Transfer in Shells interface.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 481

 conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Absolute Pressure
The absolute pressure is used in some predefined quantities that include the enthalpy
(the energy flux, for example).

It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied. See Thermodynamics, Fluid.

The default Absolute pressure pA is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the absolute pressure variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Laminar Flow interface is added you
can select Absolute pressure (spf) from the list. The Common model input option
corresponds to the minput.pA variable, set to 1 [atm] by default. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Pressure in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Velocity Field
The default Velocity field u is User defined. For User defined enter values or expressions
for the components based on space dimensions. Or select an existing velocity field in
the component (for example, Velocity field (spf) from a Laminar Flow interface). The
Common model input option corresponds to the minput.u variable. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set values for the Velocity components in the Expression for remaining
selection section.

482 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LAYER MODEL
The available options for Layer type are Thermally thin approximation and General. The
former is a lumped model that accounts only for tangential temperature gradients
(along the fracture), whereas the latter accounts also for the normal gradients of
temperature (through the fracture’s thickness).

Within a layered material selection, a single Layer type should be used. If

two layer types are needed for the same layered material, the original
material should be duplicated so that one layered material is defined for
each layer type. A Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer interface) and
Continuity (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) node may be added
between the two layered materials.

FLUID MATERIAL
By default, the Boundary material is used.

HEAT CONDUCTION, FLUID

The settings are the same as for Fluid.

THERMODYNAMICS, FLUID
The settings are the same as for Fluid.

POROUS MATERIAL
By default, the Boundary material is used. The Volume fraction θfr should be specified.
The default is 0.

HEAT CONDUCTION, POROUS MATRIX

The default Thermal conductivity kfr is taken From shell. For User defined select Isotropic,
Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the thermal
conductivity, and enter another value or expression. Select an Effective conductivity:
Volume average (the default) or Power law.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 483

 THERMODYNAMICS, POROUS MATRIX
The default Density ρfr and Specific heat capacity Cp, fr are taken From shell. See Material
Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame if a temperature-dependent density
should be set. For User defined enter other values or expressions.

In the Porous Medium node, only in-plane anisotropy is supported for the
thermal conductivity of the fracture material.

Fracture in Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fracture
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Porous Medium

More locations are available if the Heat transfer in porous media check box is selected
under the Physical Model section. For example:
Heat Transfer in Solids>Fracture

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Porous Media selected:
Boundaries>Fracture

Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Shells, Heat Transfer in Films or Heat
Transfer in Fractures selected:
Boundaries>Porous Medium

Harmonic Perturbation
Use this subnode to specify the harmonic variation of a prescribed temperature value.
It is used only in a study step of type Frequency-Domain Perturbation.

Enter a value or expression for the Temperature perturbation ΔT0 to be added to the
equilibrium temperature T0 defined in the parent node.

484 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Rod>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Film>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Fracture>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>External Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation
Heat Transfer in Shells>Temperature>Harmonic Perturbation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Temperature or External Temperature selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Harmonic Perturbation

Heat Flux
Use this node to add heat flux across boundaries. A positive heat flux adds heat to the
domain. This feature is not applicable to inlet boundaries, use the Inflow condition
instead.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Flux section
are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The Solid option specifies that the heat flux q0 is defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between
Material and Spatial Frames for details.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 485

 • The default option for the Heat Flux node is Nonsolid, which defines q0 in the spatial
frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT FLUX
Click to select the General inward heat flux (the default), Convective heat flux, or Heat
rate button.

General Inward Heat Flux

It adds q0 to the total flux across the selected boundaries. Enter a value for q0 to
represent a heat flux that enters the domain. For example, any electric heater is well
represented by this condition, and its geometry can be omitted.

Convective Heat Flux

The default option is to enter a User defined value for the Heat transfer coefficient h.

In addition, the following options are also available to control the type of convective
heat flux to model: External natural convection, Internal natural convection, External
forced convection, or Internal forced convection.

For all options except User defined, select a Fluid: Air (the default), Transformer oil,
Water, Moist air, or From material.

When From material is selected, choose a material available on the boundary from the
Materials list.

Depending of the selected option, different parameters are needed. You can refer to
the Sketch section to get an illustration of the configuration.

External Natural Convection

486 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

For External natural convection select Vertical wall, Inclined wall, Horizontal plate, upside,
Horizontal plate, downside, Long horizontal cylinder, Sphere, or Vertical Thin Cylinder
from the list under Heat transfer coefficient. Then enter the applicable information:

• Wall height L.
• Wall height L and the Tilt angle φ . The tilt angle is the angle between the wall and
the vertical direction, φ = 0 for vertical walls.
• Characteristic length (area/perimeter) L. The characteristic length is the ratio
between the surface area and its perimeter.
• Cylinder diameter D.
• Sphere diameter D.
• Cylinder height H.

Internal Natural Convection

For Internal natural convection select Narrow chimney, parallel plates or Narrow chimney,
circular tube from the list under Heat transfer coefficient. Then enter the applicable
information:

• Plate distance L and a Chimney height H.

• Tube diameter D and a Chimney height H.

External Forced Convection

For External forced convection select Plate, averaged transfer coefficient, Plate, local
transfer coefficient, Cylinder in cross flow, or Sphere from the list under Heat transfer
coefficient. Then enter the applicable information:

• Plate length L and Velocity, fluid U.

• Position along the plate xpl and Velocity, fluid U.
• Cylinder Diameter D and Velocity, fluid U.
• Sphere Diameter D and Velocity, fluid U.

Internal Forced Convection

For Internal forced convection the only option is Isothermal tube. Enter a Tube diameter
D and a Velocity, fluid U.

If Velocity, fluid U is User defined, enter a value or expression. Else, select a Wind velocity
defined in the Consistent Stabilization section of a Heat Transfer or Heat Transfer in
Shells interface.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 487

 External conditions

First, set the Absolute pressure, pA. For User Defined, enter a value or expression. Else,
select an Ambient absolute pressure defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node
under Definitions. The pressure is used to evaluate the Fluid material properties and this
setting is not available for the Transformer oil and Water options.

In addition, enter an External temperature, Text. For User defined, enter a value or
expression. Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal
Properties node under Definitions.

Finally, when the Fluid is Moist air, also set the External relative humidity, φ ext , and the
Surface relative humidity, φ s , used to evaluate the material properties.

Heat Rate
For Heat rate enter the heat rate P0 across the boundaries where the Heat Flux node is
active. In this case q0 = P0 ⁄ A, where A is the total area of the selected boundaries.

• The detailed definition of the predefined heat transfer coefficients is

given in The Heat Transfer Coefficients.
• For a thorough introduction about how to calculate heat transfer
coefficients, see Incropera and DeWitt in Ref. 18.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

• Power Transistor: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/power_transistor
• Free Convection in a Water Glass: Application Library path
Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/
cold_water_glass

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Solids>Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Heat Flux

488 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Heat Flux
Bioheat Transfer>Heat Flux

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface >Heat Flux

Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

This node describes heat generation within the shell through a dsQ contribution to the
right-hand side of Equation 4-50. If it is applied on a pair, note that the source term
is applied on the source side.

Express heating and cooling with positive and negative values, respectively. Add one or
more nodes as needed; all heat sources within a boundary contribute to the total heat
source. Specify the heat source as the heat per volume in the domain, as a linear heat
source, or as a heat rate.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 489

 You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
These settings are the same as for the Heat Source node available for the other
interfaces.

HEAT SOURCE
These settings are the same as for the Heat Source node available for the other
interfaces.

In 2D components the heat source is multiplied by dz to account for the

out-of-plane thickness.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

490 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 • Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures
• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Films>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Boundaries>Heat Transfer in Shells>Heat Source

Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture)

Use this subnode to add an internal heat source Qs within a thin layer, thin film, or
fracture. Add one or more heat sources.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 491

 You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Source
section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Heat Source node is Solid when added under Thin Layer
and Fracture, which specifies that the heat source Qs is defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between
Material and Spatial Frames for details.

492 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• The Nonsolid option defines Qs in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT SOURCE
Select the General source (the default) or Heat rate button to define Qs.

• For General source enter a value or expression for Qs as a heat source per volume.
• For Heat rate define the heat rate Ps. In this case Qs = Ps ⁄ A where A equal to the
area of the layer selection.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface)
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 493

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Film>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fracture>Heat Source

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Layer>Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Layer selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Heat Source

Incident Intensity (Radiation in Participating Medium and

Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
Use this node to specify the radiative intensity along incident directions on a boundary.
This intensity is a power per unit solid angle and unit surface area projected onto the
plane normal to the radiation direction.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

INCIDENT INTENSITY
The Boundary radiation intensity Iwall should be specified. This represents the value of
radiative intensity along incoming discrete directions. Values of radiative intensity on
outgoing discrete directions are not prescribed.

When Discrete ordinates method is selected, the components of each

discrete ordinate vector can be used in this expression. The syntax is
name.sx, name.sy, and name.sz, where name is the physics interface
node name. By default, the Radiation in Participating Media interface is
rpm so rpm.sx, rpm.sy, and rpm.sz correspond to the components of
discrete ordinate vectors.

494 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 When P1 approximation is selected as the Radiation discretization method
for the physics interface, there is additional theory, equations, and
variables described in P1 Approximation Theory.

• Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface)

• Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Medium Interface)
• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Incident Intensity
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Incident Intensity
Radiation in Participating Media>Pairs>Incident Intensity
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Pairs>Incident Intensity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media selected:
Boundaries>Incident Intensity
Pairs>Incident Intensity

Incident Intensity (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface)

Use this node to specify an incident radiative beam on the boundaries of an absorbing
medium. The incident beam is defined from its propagation direction and incident
intensity. See Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface)
for the modeling of the beam absorption in the medium.

BOUNDARY SELECTION
Select the boundaries on which to apply the incident beam. The radiative intensity
corresponding to the incident beam will be defined on any selected boundary such that
the dot product between the beam orientation and the outgoing normal vector from
the physics interface selection is negative.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 495

 MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

BEAM ORIENTATION
Enter values for the Beam orientation e. The orientation vector does not need to be
normalized.

BEAM PROFILE
Either set the Beam profile as User defined by entering a value for the Deposited beam
power density, I0 (SI unit: W/m2), or select an option among the Built-in beam profiles.
The Distribution type list provides the following options: Gaussian (the default) or
Top-hat disk.

Enter a value for the Deposited beam power P0 (SI unit: W) and the Beam origin point
O (SI unit: m).

• For Gaussian, enter the Standard deviation σ (SI unit: m).

• For Top-hat disk, enter the Beam radius R (SI unit: m). Smoothing can be applied
by entering a positive Size of transition zone ΔR (SI unit: m). The default value of
0 m corresponds to an ideal discontinuous top-hat profile.

This feature does not account for shielding effect between multiple
absorbing media. In addition, a radiative beam leaving an absorbing
medium will not generate an incident beam in an absorbing medium
placed behind the first one.

The standard deviation of the Gaussian distribution and the radius of the
top-hat distribution can take values smaller than the mesh element size.
For more accurate results, it is important to refine the mesh enough at the
heat source location. Otherwise, an automatic substitution replaces the
standard deviation σ or the radius R by the minimum length to get
acceptable results which depends on the mesh element size.

496 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global
normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media>Incident Intensity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media selected:
Boundaries>Incident Intensity

Inflow
Use this node to model inflow of heat through a virtual domain, at inlet boundaries of
non-solid domains. The upstream temperature and absolute pressure are known at the
outer boundary of the virtual domain. This boundary condition estimates the heat flux
through the inlet boundary as

– n ⋅ q = ρΔHu ⋅ n (6-13)

where the sensible enthalpy ΔH is defined by

T pA
1
ΔH = Tustr C p dT + pustr --ρ- ( 1 – αp T ) dp (6-14)

In this definition, the second integral accounts for pressure work.

UPSTREAM PROPERTIES
The Upstream temperature Tustr and the Upstream absolute pressure pustr should be
specified. For User Defined, enter values or expressions. Else, select an Ambient

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 497

 temperature and an Ambient absolute pressure defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties
node under Definitions.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Inflow
Heat Transfer in Solids>Inflow
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Inflow
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Inflow
Bioheat Transfer>Inflow

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Inflow

Initial Values (Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

This node adds an initial value for the temperature that can serve as an initial condition
for a transient simulation or as an initial guess for a nonlinear solver. If more than one
set of initial values is needed, add an Initial Values node from the Physics toolbar.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

498 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

INITIAL VALUES
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the initial value of the Temperature T.
The default is approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20º C). Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Disk-Stack Heat Sink: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/disk_stack_heat_sink

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 499

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Films>Initial Values
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Initial Values

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Boundaries>Heat Transfer in Shells>Initial Values

Initial Values (Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface)

This node adds an initial value for the surface radiosity.

INITIAL VALUES
Depending on the Wavelength dependence of surface properties set in the Radiation
Settings section of the interface, further settings display underneath.

If the Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant, set the Initial value to
Blackbody/Graybody or User defined:

• When Initial value is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the Initial
surface radiosity J. Select the Define initial surface radiosity on each side check box to
set specific values for the Initial surface radiosity, upside Ju and Initial surface
radiosity, downside Jd.
• When Radiative intensity is set to Blackbody/Graybody, enter a value for the Initial
temperature T.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands, set the Initial value to Blackbody/Graybody, User defined for each band, or User
defined:

• When Initial value is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the Initial
surface radiosity distribution Jλ. The wavelength may be accessed through the
rad.lambda variable. This distribution is integrated on each spectral band to obtain
the source heat rate Ji for each spectral band.
• When Initial value is set to Blackbody/Graybody, enter a value for the Initial
temperature T. For User defined, enter a value or expression for the initial value of

500 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 the Temperature T. Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient
Thermal Properties node under Definitions.
• When Initial value is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the Initial
surface radiosity Ji for each spectral band. By default, the same radiosity is defined
on both sides. Select the Define initial surface radiosity on each side check box and fill
the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each side.

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Initial Values

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Initial Values

Isothermal Domain Interface

This node adds several conditions for temperature exchange at the interfaces of an
isothermal domain. It can be applied on interior and exterior boundaries of the
computational domain, except on the boundaries found inside a single isothermal
domain.

In addition to the default Isothermal domain Interface node always present when the
Isothermal domain check box is selected under Physical Model section, you can add more
Isothermal domain Interface nodes if needed.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 501

 options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

ISOTHERMAL DOMAIN INTERFACE

The available Interface type options are Thermal insulation (the default), Continuity,
Ventilation, Convective heat flux, and Thermal contact. Depending on the Interface type
selected from the list, further settings are required.

The description of all the available options is summarized in the following table:
TABLE 6-5: ISOTHERMAL DOMAIN INTERFACE OPTIONS

OPTION ISOTHERMAL DOMAIN ADJACENT DOMAIN DESCRIPTION

Thermal Insulation Any Any No flux

Continuity Any Any Temperature
continuity
Ventilation Fluid Fluid Mass flux
Convective Heat Flux Solid Fluid Heat flux
(convective)
Thermal Contact Solid Solid Heat flux
(conductive)

Thermal Insulation
This condition should be used if no heat exchange occurs between the isothermal
domain and the adjacent domain.

Continuity
With this condition, the temperatures of each side of the boundary are forced to be
equal.

Ventilation
This condition specifies the mass flux at the interface between an isothermal domain
and another domain containing the same fluid.

502 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

The available Flow direction options are Positive normal direction (the default), Negative
normal direction, and Both sides. For each option, either the Mass flux or the Mass flow
rate should be specified:

• ϕ d → u is the mass flux in the positive direction and ϕ u → d is the mass flux in the
negative direction.
• Φd → u is the mass flow rate in the positive direction and Φu → d is the mass flow rate
in the negative direction.
The External temperature found under the section of the same name must be set when
the isothermal domain interface is also an exterior boundary.

Convective Heat Flux

This condition specifies the convective heat flux at the interface of a solid isothermal
domain adjacent to a fluid.

Either the Heat transfer coefficient h or the Thermal conductance hth should be
specified.

When the Heat transfer coefficient h option is selected, the default option is to enter a
User defined value for the Heat transfer coefficient h.

In addition, the following options are also available to control the type of convective
heat flux to model: External natural convection, Internal natural convection, External
forced convection, or Internal forced convection. A complete description of these options
can be found in Heat Flux, Convective Heat Flux.

The External temperature found under the section of the same name must be set when
the isothermal domain interface is also an exterior boundary.

Thermal Contact
This condition specifies the conductive heat flux at the interface of a solid isothermal
domain adjacent to a solid.

Either the Thermal resistance, Rt or the Absolute thermal resistance, Rt, th should be
specified.

The External temperature found under the section of the same name must be set when
the isothermal domain interface is also an exterior boundary.

EXTERNAL TEMPERATURE
This section is not available if the Interface type is set to Thermal Insulation or Continuity.
Else, the External temperature, Text should be specified. It is used to compute the heat
exchange with the exterior by the Ventilation, Convective heat flux, and Thermal contact

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 503

 options on isothermal domain interfaces that are also exterior boundaries. The value is
ignored on interior boundaries.

For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature Text. Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

INTERFACE OPACITY
Select Opaque (the default) or Transparent to set the interface’s opacity type.

This is needed when the interface contributes with any boundary condition from the
Radiation menu. It picks the side where irradiation starts from.

• Isothermal Domain
• Theory for Lumped Isothermal Domain
• The detailed definition of the predefined heat transfer coefficients is
given in The Heat Transfer Coefficients.

• For a thorough introduction about how to calculate heat transfer

coefficients, see Incropera and DeWitt in Ref. 18.

Natural Convection Cooling of a Vacuum Flask: Application Library

path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/
vacuum_flask

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Isothermal domain check box is selected under the Physical Model section:
Heat Transfer>Isothermal Domain Interface
Heat Transfer in Solids>Isothermal Domain Interface
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Isothermal Domain Interface
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Isothermal Domain Interface
Bioheat Transfer>Isothermal Domain Interface

Heat Transfer in Solids>Pairs>Isothermal Domain Interface

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Pairs>Isothermal Domain Interface

504 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Pairs>Isothermal Domain Interface
Bioheat Transfer>Pairs>Isothermal Domain Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface >Isothermal Domain Interface
Pairs>interface >Isothermal Domain Interface

Layer Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

This subnode enables to define the opacity of a boundary. When the boundary
represents a thin layer, this subnode can be used to specify the in-depth opacity of the
layer, independently on the opacity at the surface of the layer when using the Diffuse
Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interface), and Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)
nodes.

When several spectral bands are defined, the opacity can be set for all or only a selection
of wavelengths.

OPACITY
Depending on the Wavelength dependence of surface properties defined in the Radiation
Settings section of the physics interface settings, different sections display underneath:

• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant, select Opaque

or Transparent to set the layer’s opacity type.
• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or
Multiple spectral bands, set the opacity for each spectral band by selecting the
corresponding check box in the Opaque column of the table. By default the check
box is selected for all spectral bands.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Mirror>Layer Opacity

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 505

 Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Surface>Layer Opacity
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Prescribed Radiosity>Layer Opacity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected in the model tree:
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Diffuse Surface>Layer Opacity

Line Heat Source on Axis

This node, available for 2D axisymmetric components, models a heat source (or sink)
that is so thin that it has no thickness in the model geometry. The settings are the same
as for the Line Heat Source node.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Line Heat Source on Axis
Heat Transfer in Solids>Line Heat Source on Axis
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Line Heat Source on Axis
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Line Heat Source on Axis
Bioheat Transfer>Line Heat Source on Axis

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Line Heat Source on Axis

Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

This node is a variant of the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)
node with specular reflectivity. It is available when the Surface-to-surface radiation
method is set to Ray shooting in the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface settings. It

506 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

applies on glossy surfaces on which specular radiation should be considered in addition
to diffuse radiation. The node adds radiosity shape function for each spectral band to
its selection and uses it as surface radiosity.

If only diffuse reflection should be considered, use the Diffuse Surface

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node instead.

It is supposed that no radiation is transmitted through the surface. If radiative

transmission should be also considered, use the Semi-Transparent Surface
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node instead.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups have been added, the model inputs
are included here.

There is one standard model input: the Temperature T is used in the expression of the
blackbody radiation intensity and when multiple wavelength intervals are used, for the
fractional emissive power. The temperature model input is also used to determine the
variable that receives the radiative heat source. When the model input does not contain
a dependent variable, the radiative heat source is ignored.

The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

RADIATION DIRECTION
These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

AMBIENT
These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

FRACTIONAL EMISSIVE POWER

These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 507

 SURFACE RADIATIVE PROPERTIES
If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless) and Surface reflectivity ρs

(dimensionless) use values From material. These are properties of the material
surface that depend both on the material itself and the structure of the surface. Make
sure that a material is defined at the boundary level (by default materials are defined
at the domain level).
• For User defined, set values or expressions. You may set temperature-dependent
emissivity and reflectivity through the use of the variable rad.T.
Select the Define surface emissivity on each sides and Define surface reflectivity on each
sides check boxes to set specific values on each side. The Surface emissivity, upside,
Surface emissivity, downside, Surface reflectivity, upside, and Surface reflectivity,
downside should be set.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless) and Surface reflectivity ρs

(dimensionless) use values From material.
• When Surface reflectivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface reflectivity ρs. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the reflectivity is then averaged on each spectral band
to obtain a piecewise constant reflectivity. If the average value of the reflectivity on
each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each band option to
avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface emissivity ε. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the emissivity is then averaged on each spectral band
to obtain a piecewise constant emissivity. If the average value of the emissivity on
each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each band option to
avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface emissivity for each spectral band. By default, the same emissivity is defined
on both sides. Select the Define initial surface emissivity on each side check box and
fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each
side.
• When Surface reflectivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface reflectivity for each spectral band. By default, the same reflectivity is defined

508 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 on both sides. Select the Define initial surface reflectivity on each side check box and
fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each
side.
Set the surface emissivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 represents diffuse
mirror and 1 is appropriate for a perfect blackbody. The proper value for a physical
material lies somewhere in-between and can be found from tables or measurements.

Set the surface reflectivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 applies to a perfect
diffuse surface and 1 is appropriate when reflection is only specular.

When the Radiation direction is set to None for a spectral band, the information set for
this spectral band in this section is not used.

If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness
is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Opaque Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Opaque Surface

Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating Medium and

Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
This node defines a boundary opaque to radiation. It prescribes incident intensities on
a boundary and accounts for the net radiative heat flux, qr,net, that is absorbed by the
surface.

The net radiative heat flux is defined as the difference between the incoming and
outcoming radiative heat fluxes:

q r, net = q r, in – q r, out

The incoming and outcoming radiative heat fluxes are defined from weighted sums of
incident intensities.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 509

 PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

MODELS INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined materials are added, the model inputs appear here.

There is one standard model input — the Temperature T, which is used in the
blackbody radiative intensity expression.

The boundary temperature definition can differ from that of the

temperature in the adjacent domain.

WALL SETTINGS
Select a Wall type to define the behavior of the wall: Gray wall or Black wall. The
definition of the incident intensities used to define the incoming and outcoming
radiative heat fluxes depends on the option selected in this list.

Gray Wall
If Gray wall is selected the default Surface emissivity ε value is taken From material (a
material defined on the boundaries). For User defined enter another value or
expression.

An emissivity of 0 means that the surface emits no radiation at all and that all outgoing
radiation is diffusely reflected by this boundary. An emissivity of 1 means that the
surface is a perfect blackbody: outgoing radiation is fully absorbed on this boundary.
When the node is added in the Radiation in Participating Media interface, the radiative
intensity along incoming discrete directions on this boundary is defined by

1–ε
I i = εI b ( T ) + ----------- q r, out
π

When it is added in the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interface, no

emission is considered, and the radiative intensity along incoming discrete directions
on this boundary is defined by

1–ε
I i = ----------- q r, out
π

510 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Black Wall
If Black wall is selected, no user input is required, and the radiative intensity along the
incoming discrete directions on this boundary is defined by

Ii = Ib ( T )

if the node is added in the Radiation in Participating Media interface. When added in
the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interface,

Ii = 0

Values of radiative intensity along outgoing discrete directions are not prescribed.

When P1 approximation is selected as the Radiation discretization method

for the physics interface, there is additional theory, equations, and
variables described in P1 Approximation Theory.

• Participating Medium (Radiation in Participating Medium Interface)

• Absorbing-Scattering Medium (Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Medium Interface)
• Theory for Radiation in Participating Media

Radiative Heat Transfer in a Utility Boiler: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/boiler

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Opaque Surface
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Opaque Surface
Radiation in Participating Media>Pairs>Opaque Surface
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Pairs>Opaque Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media selected:
Boundaries>Opaque Surface
Pairs>Opaque Surface

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 511

 Opaque Surface (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface)
Use this node to set an absorbing medium’s boundary opaque to radiation. This
condition applies for all the radiative beams defined by an active Incident Intensity
condition. If the beam propagates from the opaque surface to the absorbing medium,
the radiative intensity is set to 0. Otherwise, the radiative beam is absorbed by the
surface and deposits all its energy on it. A boundary heat source, Qb, is defined and
corresponds to the energy deposited by all the radiative beam on the opaque surface.
See Absorbing Medium (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) for the
modeling of radiative beam absorption in the medium.

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media>Opaque Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media selected:
Boundaries>Opaque Surface

Open Boundary
This node adds a boundary condition for modeling heat flux across an open boundary;
the heat can flow out of the domain or into the domain with a specified exterior
temperature. Use this node to limit a modeling domain that extends in an open
fashion.

OPEN BOUNDARY
Enter the exterior Temperature T0 outside the open boundary.

Natural Convection Cooling of a Vacuum Flask: Application Library

path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/
vacuum_flask

512 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Open Boundary
Heat Transfer in Solids>Open Boundary
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Open Boundary
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Open Boundary
Bioheat Transfer>Open Boundary

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface >Open Boundary

Outflow
This node provides a suitable boundary condition for convection-dominated heat
transfer at outlet boundaries. In a model with convective heat transfer, this condition
states that the only heat transfer occurring across the boundary is by convection. The
temperature gradient in the normal direction is zero, and there is no radiation. This is
usually a good approximation of the conditions at an outlet boundary in a heat transfer
model with fluid flow.

BOUNDARY SELECTION
In most cases, the Outflow node does not require any user input. If required, select
the boundaries that are convection-dominated outlet boundaries.

Heat Sink: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/heat_sink

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Outflow
Heat Transfer in Solids>Outflow
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Outflow
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Outflow
Bioheat Transfer>Outflow

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 513

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Outflow

Periodic Condition (Heat Transfer interface)

Use this node to add periodic temperature conditions to boundary pairs. The
Destination Selection subnode is available from the context menu (right-click the parent
node) or from the Physics toolbar, Attributes menu.

For information about the Orientation of Source section, see Orientation of Source and
Destination in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

PERIODIC CONDITION
Enter a Temperature offset ΔT to the temperature periodicity. The default value is 0 K,
so that the source and destination temperatures are equal.

Convection Cooling of Circuit Boards—3D Forced Convection:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/circuit_board_forced_3d

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Periodic Condition
Heat Transfer in Solids>Periodic Condition
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Periodic Condition
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Periodic Condition
Bioheat Transfer>Periodic Condition

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Periodic Condition

514 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Periodic Condition (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium interfaces)
Use this node to add periodic conditions for the radiative intensity or incident
radiation on boundary pairs. The Destination Selection subnode is available from the
context menu (right-click the parent node) or from the Physics toolbar, Attributes
menu.

For information about the Orientation of Source section, see Orientation of Source and
Destination in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Periodic Condition
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Periodic Condition

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media selected:
Boundaries>Periodic Condition

Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

Use this node to specify radiosity on the boundary for each spectral band. Radiosity
can be defined as blackbody or graybody radiation. A user-defined surface radiosity
expression can also be defined.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups have been added, the model inputs
are included here.

There is one standard model input: the Temperature T is used in the expression of the
blackbody radiation intensity and when multiple wavelength intervals are used, for the
fractional emissive power. The temperature model input is also used to determine the
variable that receives the radiative heat source. When the model input does not contain
a dependent variable, the radiative heat source is ignored.

The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 515

 selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

RADIATION DIRECTION
When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant select a Radiation
direction based on the geometric normal (nx, ny, nz): Opacity controlled (the default),
Negative normal direction, Positive normal direction, Both sides, or None.

• Opacity controlled requires that each boundary is adjacent to exactly one opaque
domain. Opacity is controlled by the Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) condition.
• Select Negative normal direction to specify that the surface radiates in the negative
normal direction (un vector direction).
• Select Positive normal direction if the surface radiates in the positive normal direction
(dn vector direction).
• Select Both sides if the surface radiates on both sides.

When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or Multiple
spectral bands select a Radiation direction for each spectral band: Opacity controlled (the
default), Negative normal direction, Positive normal direction, or Both sides, or None. The
Radiation direction defines the radiation direction for each spectral band similarly as
when Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant.

If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness
is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

RADIOSITY

Radiosity does not directly affect the boundary condition on the boundary
where it is specified, but rather defines how that boundary affects others
through radiation.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant, select a Radiosity expression

between Graybody radiation (the default), Blackbody radiation, or User defined.

516 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral
bands, select a Radiosity expression between Graybody radiation (the default), Blackbody
radiation, User defined for each band, or User defined.

Blackbody Radiation
When Blackbody radiation is selected it sets the surface radiosity expression
corresponding to a blackbody.

• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant it defines

J = eb(T) when radiation is defined on one side or Ju = eb(Tu) and Jd = eb(Td) when
radiation is defined on both sides.
• When Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or
Multiple spectral bands, it defines for each spectral band Ji = FEPi(T)eb(T) when
radiation is defined on one side or Ji, d = FEPi, d(Td)eb(Td) and
Ju = FEPi, u(Tu)eb(Tu) when radiation is defined on both sides.

• When the temperature varies across a pair (for example when a Thin
Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface) condition is active on the same boundary), the temperature
used to define the radiosity is evaluated on the side where the surface
radiation is defined.
• The blackbody hemispherical total emissive power is defined by
eb(T) = n2σT4

Graybody Radiation
When Graybody radiation is selected it sets the surface radiosity expression
corresponding to a graybody.

By default, the Surface emissivity ε is defined From material. In this case, make sure that
a material is defined at the boundary level (materials are defined by default at the
domain level). If User defined is selected for the Surface emissivity, enter another value
for ε. For User defined for each band option, set a value for each spectral band in the
table.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant:

• When radiation is defined on one side, define the Surface emissivity ε to set
J = εeb(T), or
• When radiation is defined on both sides, define the Surface emissivity, upside εu and
the Surface emissivity, downside εd on the upside and downside, respectively. The

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 517

 surface radiosity on upside and downside is then defined by Ju = εueb(Tu) and
Jd = εdeb(Td) respectively.
If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or Multiple
spectral bands, for all spectral bands:

• When radiation is defined on one side for Bi spectral band, define the Surface
emissivity εi to set Ji = FEPiεieb(T), or
• When radiation is defined on both sides for Bi spectral band, define the Surface
emissivity, upside εi, u and the Surface emissivity, downside εi, d on the upside and
downside, respectively. The surface radiosity on upside and downside is then defined
by Ju = FEPBi(Tu)εBi, ueb(Tu) and Jd = FEPBi(Td)εBi, deb(Td), respectively.

Set the surface emissivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0

represents diffuse mirror and 1 is appropriate for a perfect blackbody. The
proper value for a physical material lies somewhere in-between and can be
found from tables or measurements.

User Defined
If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Constant and Radiosity expression
is set to User defined, it sets the surface radiosity expression to J = J0, which specifies
how the radiosity of a boundary is evaluated when that boundary is visible in the
calculation of the irradiation onto another boundary in the model. Enter a value or
expression for the Surface radiosity, J0.

Select the Define prescribed radiosity on each side check box to set specific values on
each side, and define the surface Radiosity expression J0, u and J0, d on the upside and
downside, respectively. The geometric normal points from the downside to the upside.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands, similar settings are available for each spectral band.

User Defined on Each Band

The surface radiosity J0,i should be set for each spectral band by filling the table. Select
the Define prescribed radiosity on each side check box to set specific values on each side,
and set the Upside and Downside cells in the table.

Several settings for this node depend on the Wavelength dependence of

surface properties setting, which is defined for the physics interface. See
Radiation Settings.

518 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global
normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

To define temperature dependencies for the user inputs (surface

emissivity for example), use the temperature variable ht.T, that
corresponds to the appropriate variable (upside, downside, or average
temperature of a layer, wall temperature with turbulence modeling),
depending on the model configurations. See Boundary Wall Temperature
for a thorough description of the boundary temperature variables.

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Prescribed Radiosity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Prescribed Radiosity

Radiation Group (Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface)

This node enables you to specify radiation groups to speed up the radiation
calculations and gather boundaries in a radiation problem that can see one another.

By default, all radiative boundaries (selected in a Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface

Radiation interface), Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), or
Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node) belong to the
same radiation group.

To change this, select the Use radiation groups check box under Radiation Settings to
add a Radiation Group to a Surface-to-Surface Radiation (rad) interface.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 519

 When a node is added to another radiation group, it is overridden in the default group.
Then this boundary can be added to other radiation groups without being overridden
by the manually added radiation groups.

Be careful when grouping boundaries in axisymmetric geometries. The

grouping cannot be based on which boundaries have a free view toward
each other in the 2D geometry. Instead, consider the full 3D geometry,
obtained by revolving the model geometry about the z axis, when
defining groups.

For example, parallel vertical boundaries must typically belong to the

same group in 2D axisymmetric components, but to different groups in a
planar model using the same 2D geometry.

The figure below shows four examples of possible boundary groupings. On boundaries
that have no number, the user has NOT set a node among the Diffuse Surface
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Diffuse Mirror (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface), and Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) nodes.
These boundaries do not irradiate other boundaries, neither do other boundaries
irradiate them.

On boundaries that belong to one or more radiation group, the user has set a node
among the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Diffuse Mirror
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), and Prescribed Radiosity (Surface-to-Surface

520 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Radiation interface) nodes. The numbers on each boundary specify different groups to
which the boundary belongs.
A B
1 1 1 2
2 123

12 1 2
3 3

C 1 D Inefficient boundary grouping

1 1
1 1
1 1
2 2

1 1
2 2 1 1

Figure 6-1: Examples of radiation group boundaries.

To obtain optimal computational performance, it is good practice to specify as many

groups as possible as opposed to specifying few but large groups. For example, case B
is more efficient than case D.

BOUNDARY SELECTION
This section should contain any boundary that is selected in a Diffuse Surface, Diffuse
Mirror, or Prescribed Radiosity node and that has a chance to see one of the boundary
that is already selected in the Radiation Group.

RADIATION GROUP
When the Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant, the radiation group
is valid for all wavelengths, and all this section is then empty.

When the Wavelength dependence of surface properties is set to Solar and ambient or
Multiple spectral bands, the radiation group is defined for all spectral bands by default.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 521

 Clear Radiation group defined on spectral band i check boxes to remove the Bi spectral
bands from these radiation groups.

Several settings for this node depend on the Wavelength dependence of

surface properties setting, which is defined for the physics interface. See
Radiation Settings.

If this node is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness is
assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The user-defined
value for d is still used in the heat transfer equation.

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
If the Use radiation groups check box is selected under the Radiation Settings section:
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Radiation Group

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Radiation Group

Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)

This node is a variant of the Opaque Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)
node. In addition to specular and diffuse reflection, specular transmission can be also
considered on the surface. It is available when the Surface-to-surface radiation method
is set to Ray shooting in the Surface-to-Surface Radition interface settings. The node
adds a radiosity shape function for each spectral band to its selection and uses it as
surface radiosity.

It no radiation is transmitted through the surface, use the Opaque Surface

(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) node instead.

Radiation is supposed to occur on both sides of the surface.

522 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups have been added, the model inputs
are included here.

There is one standard model input: the Temperature T is used in the expression of the
blackbody radiation intensity and when multiple wavelength intervals are used, for the
fractional emissive power. The temperature model input is also used to determine the
variable that receives the radiative heat source. When the model input does not contain
a dependent variable, the radiative heat source is ignored.

The default Temperature is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are added
to the model, the temperature variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be
selected from the list. The Common model input option corresponds to the minput.T
variable, set to 293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

AMBIENT
These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

FRACTIONAL EMISSIVE POWER

These settings are the same as for the Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) node.

SURFACE RADIATIVE PROPERTIES

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless), Surface reflectivity ρs

(dimensionless), and Surface transmissivity τ (dimensionless) use values From
material. These are properties of the material surface that depend both on the
material itself and the structure of the surface. Make sure that a material is defined
at the boundary level (by default materials are defined at the domain level).
• For User defined, set values or expressions. You may set temperature-dependent
emissivity and reflectivity through the use of the variable rad.T.
Select the Define surface emissivity on each sides, Define surface reflectivity on each sides,
and Define surface transmissivity on each sides check boxes to set specific values on each
side. The Surface emissivity, upside, Surface emissivity, downside, Surface reflectivity,

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 523

 upside, Surface reflectivity, downside, Surface transmissivity, upside, and Surface
transmissivity, downside should be set.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands:

• By default, the Surface emissivity ε (dimensionless), Surface reflectivity ρs

(dimensionless), and Surface transmissivity τ (dimensionless) use values From
material.
• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface emissivity ε. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the emissivity is then averaged on each spectral band
to obtain a piecewise constant emissivity. If the average value of the emissivity on
each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each band option to
avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface reflectivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface reflectivity ρs. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the reflectivity is then averaged on each spectral band
to obtain a piecewise constant reflectivity. If the average value of the reflectivity on
each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each band option to
avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface transmissivity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the
Surface transmissivity τ. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. Any expression set for the transmissivity is then averaged on each spectral
band to obtain a piecewise constant transmissivity. If the average value of the
transmissivity on each band is known, you may use instead the User defined for each
band option to avoid the evaluation of the average.
• When Surface emissivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface emissivity for each spectral band. By default, the same emissivity is defined
on both sides. Select the Define initial surface emissivity on each side check box and
fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each
side.
• When Surface reflectivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface reflectivity for each spectral band. By default, the same reflectivity is defined
on both sides. Select the Define initial surface reflectivity on each side check box and
fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific definition on each
side.

524 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• When Surface transmissivity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the
Surface transmissivity for each spectral band. By default, the same transmissivity is
defined on both sides. Select the Define initial surface transmissivity on each side
check box and fill the Upside and Downside columns of the table for a specific
definition on each side.
Set the surface emissivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 represents diffuse
mirror and 1 is appropriate for a perfect blackbody. The proper value for a physical
material lies somewhere in-between and can be found from tables or measurements.

Set the surface reflectivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 applies to a perfect
diffuse surface and 1 is appropriate when reflection is only specular.

Set the surface transmissivity to a number between 0 and 1, where 0 applies to an

opaque surface and 1 is appropriate for a fully transparent surface.

Set a value or expression for the Critical angle θc, which is the minimum angle for
transmission to occur. Below this angle, all the radiation is reflected. Select the Define
critical angle on each sides check box to set specific values on each side.

When the Radiation direction is set to None for a spectral band, the information set for
this spectral band in this section is not used.

If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the thickness
is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Semi-Transparent Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Boundaries>Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Semi-Transparent Surface

Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Heat Transfer interface)

Use this node to account for radiation from boundaries to the ambient. The net inward
heat flux from surface-to-ambient radiation is

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 525

 4 4
– n ⋅ q = εσ ( T amb – T )

where ε is the surface emissivity, σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (a predefined

physical constant), and Tamb is the ambient temperature.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

RADIATION SETTINGS
Define on which side of the boundary is the ambient domain that receives the
radiation, by selecting a Radiation direction: Upside or Downside.

Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global

normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT RADIATION

Ambient temperature
For User defined, enter an Ambient temperature Tamb. The default value is
approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20ºC). Else, select an Ambient
temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

526 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Surface emissivity
The default Surface emissivity ε (a dimensionless number between 0 and 1) is taken
From material. For User defined, it should be specified. An emissivity of 0 means that
the surface emits no radiation at all while an emissivity of 1 means that it is a perfect
blackbody.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Solids selected:
Boundaries>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Symmetry (Heat Transfer interface)

This node provides a boundary condition for symmetry boundaries. This boundary
condition is similar to a Thermal Insulation condition, and it means that there is no
heat flux across the boundary.

The symmetry condition only applies to the temperature field. It has no

effect on the radiosity (surface-to-surface radiation) and on the radiative
intensity (radiation in participating media). Use Symmetry for
Surface-to-Surface Radiation to account for the symmetry in the
computation of the view factors.

Heat Generation in a Disc Brake: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/brake_disc

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Symmetry
Heat Transfer in Solids>Symmetry
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Symmetry
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Symmetry
Bioheat Transfer>Symmetry

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 527

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Symmetry

Symmetry (Radiation in Participating Medium and Radiation in

Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces)
This node provides a condition for symmetry boundaries when the Radiation
discretization method is P1 approximation. It means that there is no heat flux across the
boundary.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiation in Participating Media>Symmetry
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media>Symmetry

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiation in Participating Media or Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media selected:
Boundaries>Symmetry

Temperature
Use this node to specify the temperature somewhere in the geometry, for example, on
boundaries.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

TEMPERATURE
The equation for this condition is T = T0, where T0 is the prescribed temperature on
the boundary. For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature T0.
Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node
under Definitions.

528 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.
By default Classic constraints is selected. Select the Use weak constraints check box to
replace the standard constraints with a weak implementation. Select the Discontinuous
Galerkin constraints button when Classic constraints do not work satisfactorily.

The Discontinuous Galerkin constraints option is especially useful to

prevent oscillations on inlet boundaries where convection dominates.
Unlike the Classic constraints, these constraints do not enforce the
temperature on the boundary extremities. This is relevant on fluid inlets
where the temperature condition should not be enforced on the walls at
the inlet extremities. Note that Discontinuous Galerkin contraints are not
supported for resistive thin layers or with turbulent wall functions.

You can specify a harmonic variation of the temperature value in a

frequency domain analysis of perturbation type, by adding a Harmonic
Perturbation subnode. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for more
details.

Steady-State 2D Axisymmetric Heat Transfer with Conduction:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Conduction/
cylinder_conduction

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Solids>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Temperature
Bioheat Transfer>Temperature

Heat Transfer in Solids>Pairs>Temperature

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Pairs>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Pairs>Temperature
Bioheat Transfer>Pairs>Temperature

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 529

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface>Temperature
Pairs>interface>Temperature

Thermal Contact
This node defines correlations for the conductance h at the interface of two bodies in
contact. It can be added to pairs by selecting Pair Thermal Contact from the Pairs menu.
Note that in this case the source term is applied on the destination side.

The conductance h is involved in the heat flux across the surfaces in contact according
to:

– n d ⋅ q d = – h ( T u – T d ) + rQ b

– n u ⋅ q u = – h ( T d – T u ) + ( 1 – r )Q b

where u and d subscripts refer to the upside and downside of the slit, respectively. Pair
Thermal Contact should be activated on a Identity Pair or on a Contact Pair where a
structural mechanics physics interface defines a contact pair feature.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces

530 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Thermal Friction
section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Thermal Contact node is Solid, which specifies that the heat
source Qb is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer variables and
equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally converted to the
spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames for details.
• The Nonsolid option defines Qb in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the boundary on which the
node is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

THERMAL CONTACT
Select a Contact model: Constriction conductance with interstitial gas (the default), or
Equivalent thin resistive layer.

With the Constriction conductance with interstitial gas model, you consider the
microscopic configuration of the joint, by setting both the constriction conductance
at the contact spots, hc, and the gap conductance due to the fluid in the interstitial
space, hg, to evaluate the joint conductance. The characteristic size of the microscopic
surface asperities, and both the conductance of constriction and gap need to be
specified.

To represent the surfaces asperities and the fluid gap in-between these surfaces by an
equivalent thin layer, select the Equivalent thin resistive layer option instead.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 531

 The radiative conductance can be accounted for with the two contact models. It
should be considered at high temperatures, above 600°C.

See Theory for Thermal Contact for details.

Depending on the selected Contact model, further settings display underneath.

Constriction Conductance with interstitial gas

Select a Constriction conductance: Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich correlation (the default),
Mikic elastic correlation, or User defined. For User defined enter a value or expression for
hc.

Then select the Gap conductance: User defined (the default) or Parallel-plate gap gas
conductance (available if Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich correlation or Mikic elastic correlation
is selected as the Constriction conductance). For User defined enter a value for hg.

Equivalent thin resistive layer

The available options to specify the resistive behavior of the equivalent layer are Layer
resistance (the default), Layer conductance, and Layer thermal conductivity and
thickness. Depending on the selected option, enter values or expressions for the Layer
resistance, Req, the Layer conductance, heq, the Layer thermal conductivity, keq, and the
Layer thickness, ds.

Radiative conductance
Finally, choose the Radiative conductance: User defined (the default) or Gray-diffuse
parallel surfaces. For User defined enter a value for hr.

CONTACT SURFACE PROPERTIES

This section is available when the Contact model is Constriction conductance with
interstitial gas, if Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich correlation or Mikic elastic correlation are
chosen as the Constriction conductance correlation for the Constriction conductance.
Enter values for the:

• Surface roughness, asperities average height σasp

• Surface roughness, asperities average slope masp
• Contact pressure p

For Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich correlation select a Hardness definition: Microhardness (the

default), Vickers hardness, or Brinell hardness.

• For Microhardness enter a value for Hc.

532 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• For Vickers hardness enter a value for the Vickers correlation coefficient c1 and Vickers
size index c2.
• For Brinell hardness enter a value for HB. It should be between 1.30 and 7.60 GPa.

For Mikic elastic correlation select a Contact interface Young’s modulus Econtact:
Weighted harmonic mean (the default) or User defined.

• For Weighted harmonic mean, enter values or expressions for the Young’s modulus,
upside, Eu, the Young’s modulus, downside, Ed, the Poisson’s ratio, upside, νu, and
the Poisson’s ratio, downside, νd. If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, enter
instead values or expressions for the Young’s modulus, source, Esrc, the Young’s
modulus, destination, Edst, the Poisson’s ratio, source, νsrc, and the Poisson’s ratio,
destination, νdst.
• For User defined enter another value or expression for Econtact.

GAP PROPERTIES
This section is available when the Contact model is Constriction conductance with
interstitial gas, if Parallel-plate gap gas conductance is selected as the Gap conductance
correlation under Thermal Contact.

The default Gas thermal conductivity kgap is taken From material. For User defined select
Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic based on the characteristics of the gas
thermal conductivity, and enter another value or expression.

Also enter the following:

• Gas pressure pgap

• Gas thermal accommodation parameter α
• Gas fluid parameter β
• Gas particles diameter D

RADIATIVE CONDUCTANCE
This section is available when Gray-diffuse parallel surfaces is selected as the Radiative
conductance correlation under Thermal Contact.

By default the Surface emissivity ε is taken From material. For User defined enter another
value or expression.

THERMAL FRICTION
Select a Heat partition coefficient r: Charron’s relation (the default) or User defined. For
User defined enter a value for r.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 533

 Select either the General source (the default) or Heat rate.

• For General source enter a frictional heat source Qb.

• For Heat rate enter the heat rate Pb.

Theory for Thermal Contact

Upside and downside settings can be visualized by plotting the global

normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from downside to upside.
Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz) may be oriented
differently.

In addition, surface plots for the temperatures on the upside (ht.Tu) and
downside (ht.Td) of the slit are automatically generated in 3D
components.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

Thermal Contact Resistance Between an Electronic Package and a

Heat Sink: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/
thermal_contact_electronic_package_heat_sink

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Thermal Contact
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thermal Contact
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thermal Contact
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Thermal Contact
Bioheat Transfer>Thermal Contact

Heat Transfer in Solids>Pairs>Pair Thermal Contact

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Pairs>Pair Thermal Contact
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Pairs>Pair Thermal Contact
Bioheat Transfer>Pairs>Pair Thermal Contact

534 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Pairs>interface >Pair Thermal Contact

Thermal Insulation
This node is the default boundary condition for all Heat Transfer interfaces. This
boundary condition means that there is no heat flux across the boundary:

–n ⋅ q = 0

and hence specifies where the domain is well insulated. Intuitively, this equation says
that the temperature gradient across the boundary is zero. For this to be true, the
temperature on one side of the boundary must equal the temperature on the other
side. Because there is no temperature difference across the boundary, heat cannot
transfer across it. As the default boundary condition, it can be applied only on external
boundaries; but when added manually, it can be applied also on internal boundaries.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Thermal Insulation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thermal Insulation
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thermal Insulation
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Thermal Insulation
Bioheat Transfer>Thermal Insulation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in
Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials or Bioheat
Transfer selected:
Boundaries>interface >Thermal Insulation

Thickness (Heat Transfer in Shells interface)

Use this subnode to edit the total thickness of a layered material to be considered for
heat transfer, when the Layer type is Thermally thin approximation.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 535

 LAYER SELECTION
The Layered material settings in this section are those of the parent node and are not
editable.

THICKNESS
Set the Total layer thickness ds to be considered for heat transfer modeling. A scaling
factor ds/ds0 is applied to the heat transfer equation terms, where ds0 is the original
layered material thickness, defined as the sum of the material’s layers thicknesses. The
scaling is applied identically on all the layers of the material.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Solid>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Films>Fluid>Thickness
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Porous Medium>Thickness

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Solid, Fluid, or Porous Medium selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Thickness

Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in

Shells interface)
This node behaves like Fluid but is applicable on boundaries.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

536 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Note that this section is not editable when Fluid is the default node of the Heat Transfer
in Shells interface.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Absolute Pressure
The absolute pressure is used in some predefined quantities that include the enthalpy
(the energy flux, for example).

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 537

 It is also used if the ideal gas law is applied. See Thermodynamics, Fluid.

The default Absolute pressure pA is User defined. When additional physics interfaces are
added to the model, the absolute pressure variables defined by these physics interfaces
can also be selected from the list. For example, if a Laminar Flow interface is added you
can select Absolute pressure (spf) from the list. The Common model input option
corresponds to the minput.pA variable, set to 1 [atm] by default. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set a value for the Pressure in the Expression for remaining selection section.

Velocity Field
The default Velocity field u is User defined. For User defined enter values or expressions
for the components based on space dimensions. Or select an existing velocity field in
the component (for example, Velocity field (spf) from a Laminar Flow interface). The
Common model input option corresponds to the minput.u variable. To edit it, click the
Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global
Definitions, set values for the Velocity components in the Expression for remaining
selection section.

LAYER MODEL
The available options for Layer type are Thermally thin approximation and General. The
former is a lumped model that accounts only for tangential temperature gradients
(along the film), whereas the latter accounts also for the normal gradients of
temperature (through the film’s thickness). The second model may be used for the
modeling of bearings for example.

Within a layered material selection, a single Layer type should be used. If

two layer types are needed for the same layered material, the original
material should be duplicated so that one layered material is defined for
each layer type. A Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer interface) and
Continuity (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) node may be added
between the two layered materials.

The settings for the Model Input, Heat Conduction, Fluid, and
Thermodynamics, Fluid sections are the same as for Fluid.

538 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 The thermal conductivity of the thin film is supposed to be isotropic, even
if an anisotropic property is defined for the material.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Film
Heat Transfer in Films>Fluid

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Fluids selected:
Boundaries>Thin Film

Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Films selected:

Boundaries>Fluid

Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in

Shells interface)
This node defines the thermal conductivity and thermodynamics properties of a
material located on internal or external boundaries. This material can be formed of one
or more layers, and different conductive behaviors can be modeled through the setting
of the Layer type:

• Select Thermally thick approximation to model a layer that is a bad thermal conductor
compared to the adjacent geometry. In this case, the tangential heat flux is neglected
and only the heat flux across the layer’s thickness is considered. The layer can be
constituted of multiple sub-layers with specific thickness and thermal properties.
Each sub-layer can be distinguished when a heat source is applied to the layer. This
option may also be used to enforce consistent initial conditions.
• Select Thermally thin approximation to model a layer that is a good thermal
conductor compared to the adjacent geometry. In this case, the temperature
difference and heat flux across the layer’s thickness are neglected. Only the
tangential heat flux is considered. The sub-layers are not distinguished when a heat
source is applied to the layer.
• Select General to model a layer in which both the normal and tangential heat fluxes
should be considered. The layer can be constituted of multiple sub-layers with
specific thickness and thermal properties, and heat sources can be applied on a
sub-layer selection, and on up and down sides of the layer.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 539

 LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

Note that this section is not editable when Solid is the default node of the Heat Transfer
in Shells interface.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

540 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Volume reference temperature
This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

LAYER MODEL
The available options for Layer type are Thermally thin approximation, Thermally thick
approximation, and General.

If Layer type is Thermally thick approximation, from the Specify list select Layer
properties (the default) or Thermal resistance.

Within a layered material selection, a single Layer type should be used. If

two layer types are needed for the same layered material, the original
material should be duplicated so that one layered material is defined for
each layer type. A Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer interface) and
Continuity (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) node may be added
between the two layered materials.

HEAT CONDUCTION
The default Thermal conductivity k is taken From shell. For User defined select Isotropic,
Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic to enter another value or expression.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 541

 Alternatively, set a value for the Thermal resistance Rs if Specify is set to Thermal
resistance in the Layer Model section (for Thermally thick approximation).

THERMODYNAMICS
By default the Density ρ and Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp of the layer are taken
From shell. See Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame if a
temperature-dependent density should be set. For User defined enter other values or
expressions.

When Layer type is Thermally thick approximation, these properties are only used in
time-dependent studies, but must be set in all cases.

These subnodes are available for Thin Layer node:

• Heat Source (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture) — to add a layer

internal heat source, Qs, within the layer.
• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture) — to add a heat flux
through a specified set of boundaries.
• Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Shells) — to set a prescribed temperature condition on a specified set
of boundaries.
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
Heat Transfer in Shells interface) — to add a surface-to-ambient
radiation for the layer end.

When multiple layers are defined they are numbered from the downside
(Layer 1) to the upside. Upside and downside settings can be visualized
by plotting the global normal vector (nx, ny, nz), that always points from
downside to upside. Note that the normal vector (ht.nx, ht.ny, ht.nz)
may be oriented differently.

See Tangent and Normal Variables in the COMSOL Multiphysics

Reference Manual.

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

• Boundary Wall Temperature
• Plotting Results in Thin Layers Extra Dimensions

542 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 • Heat Transfer in a Surface-Mount Package for a Silicon Chip:
Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/surface_mount_package
• Silica Glass Block Coated with a Copper Layer: Application Library
path Heat_Transfer_Module/Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/copper_layer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer
Heat Transfer in Shells>Solid

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Solids selected:
Boundaries>Thin Layer
Physics Tab with interface as Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Boundaries>Solid

Transparent Surface (Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium

Interface)
Use this node to model an absorbing medium’s boundary where there is no radiative
intensity absorption. All the outgoing beams traveling from the medium to the exterior
leave the media without depositing any energy at this boundary. The intensity of
radiative beams entering the absorbing media is set to zero. See Opaque Surface
(Radiative Beam in Absorbing Medium Interface) to account for radiative intensity
absorption on boundaries.

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Theory

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media>Transparent Surface

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 543

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media selected:
Boundaries>Transparent Surface

544 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Boundary Interface Features
The Heat Transfer interfaces have the following boundary interface nodes and
subnodes available:

• Deposited Beam Power, Interface • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation,

(Heat Transfer in Shells Interface) Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells
• Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer Interface)
in Shells Interface) • Temperature, interface (Heat
• Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)
Transfer in Shells Interface)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Deposited Beam Power, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

This node models heat sources brought by narrow beams, such as laser or electron
beams, to the exterior interfaces of a shell and, for the case of a layered shell, to the
interfaces between its layers.

INTERFACE SELECTION
Set the interfaces for which the heat source contribution should be applied. These can
be internal interfaces between layers or the top and bottom surfaces. Select the
applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) in the Layered Material list.
If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layer Selection setting).

For a Single Layer Material, the heat source is applied on both sides by default. Unselect
the Downside and Upside check boxes for another behavior. This setting has no effect
unless the temperature differs from one side of the boundary to the other.

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layer interfaces where the node should not be
applied in the Selection table.

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 545

 You can visualize the selected interfaces by clicking the Layer cross section preview and
Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

BEAM ORIENTATION
Enter a value for the Beam orientation e. This vector does not need to be normalized.
In 2D axisymmetric components, it is aligned with the z-axis.

BEAM PROFILE
Either select an option for the Beam profile among the Built-in beam profiles, or set the
it as User defined by entering a value for the Deposited beam power density, Qb (SI unit:
W/m2).

For Built-in beam profiles, enter a value for the Deposited beam power P0 and the
coordinates of the Beam origin point O.

546 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Then, select a Distribution type: Gaussian (the default) or Top-hat disk.

• For Gaussian, enter the Standard deviation σ.

• For Top-hat disk, enter the Beam radius R. Smoothing can be applied by entering a
positive Size of transition zone ΔR. The default value of 0 m corresponds to an ideal
discontinuous top-hat profile.

The standard deviation of the Gaussian distribution and the radius of the
top-hat distribution can take values smaller than the mesh element size.
For more accurate results, it is important to refine the mesh enough at the
deposited heat source location. Otherwise, an automatic substitution
replaces the standard deviation σ or the beam radius R by the minimum
length to get acceptable results which depends on the mesh element size.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Interfaces>Deposited Beam Power, Interface
Heat Transfer in Films>Interfaces>Deposited Beam Power, Interface
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Interfaces>Deposited Beam Power, Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Boundaries>Deposited Beam Power, Interface

Heat Flux, interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

This node adds a heat flux q0 on the exterior interfaces of a shell and, for the case of a
layered shell, at the interfaces between its layers.

INTERFACE SELECTION
Set the interfaces for which the heat flux should be applied. These can be internal
interfaces between layers or the top and bottom surfaces. Select the applicable layers
(the default setting is All layered materials) in the Layered Material list. If no layered
materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for creating a Single
Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the plus, next to the
Layer Selection setting).

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 547

 For a Single Layer Material, the heat flux is applied on both sides by default. Unselect
the Downside and Upside check boxes for another behavior. This setting has no effect
unless the temperature differs from one side of the boundary to the other.

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layer interfaces where the node should not be
applied in the Selection table.

You can visualize the selected interfaces by clicking the Layer cross section preview and
Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Flux section
are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The Solid option specifies that the heat fluxes q0 is defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between
Material and Spatial Frames for details.

548 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• The default option for the Heat Flux node is Nonsolid, which defines q0 in the spatial
frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT FLUX
These settings are the same as for the Heat Flux node.

In 2D the heat flux contribution is multiplied by dz to account for the

out-of-plane thickness.

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

• The Heat Transfer Coefficients

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Interfaces>Heat Flux, Interface
Heat Transfer in Films>Interfaces>Heat Flux, Interface
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Interfaces>Heat Flux, Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Boundaries>Heat Flux, Interface

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 549

 Heat Source, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)
This node models a heat source (or sink) on the exterior interfaces of a shell and, for
the case of a layered shell, at the interfaces between its layers. It adds a heat source
q = Qb or q = Pb ⁄ A. A positive q is heating and a negative q is cooling.

INTERFACE SELECTION
Set the interfaces for which the heat source contribution should be applied. These can
be internal interfaces between layers or the top and bottom surfaces. Select the
applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) in the Layered Material list.
If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layer Selection setting).

For a Single Layer Material, the heat source is applied on both sides by default. Unselect
the Downside and Upside check boxes for another behavior. This setting has no effect
unless the temperature differs from one side of the boundary to the other.

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layer interfaces where the node should not be
applied in the Selection table.

You can visualize the selected interfaces by clicking the Layer cross section preview and
Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

550 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Boundary Heat
Source section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Heat Source node is Solid, which specifies that the heat
source Qb is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer variables and
equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally converted to the
spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames for details.
• The Nonsolid option defines Qb in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

BOUNDARY HEAT SOURCE

Click the General source (the default) or Heat rate button.

For General source, enter the boundary heat source Qb. A positive Qb is heating and a
negative Qb is cooling.

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 551

 For Heat rate enter the heat rate Pb. In this case Qb = Pb ⁄ A, where A is the total area
of the selected layers interface.

In 2D components, the equation contains an additional factor, dz, to

account for the out-of-plane thickness. This is because the selected points
correspond to edges in a 3D geometry.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Interfaces>Heat Source, Interface
Heat Transfer in Films>Interfaces>Heat Source, Interface
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Interfaces>Heat Source, Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Boundaries>Heat Source, Interface

Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface (Heat Transfer in Shells

Interface)
Use this node to add surface-to-ambient radiation on the exterior interfaces of a shell
and, for the case of a layered shell, at the interfaces between its layers. The net inward
heat flux due to surface-to-ambient radiation is

4 4
– n ⋅ q = εσ ( T amb – T )

552 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

where ε is the surface emissivity, σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (a predefined
physical constant), and Tamb is the ambient temperature.

INTERFACE SELECTION
Set the interfaces for which surface-to-surface radiation should be considered. These
can be internal interfaces between layers or the top and bottom surfaces. Select the
applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) in the Layered Material list.
If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layer Selection setting).

For a Single Layer Material, the surface-to-surface radiation is modeled on both sides by
default. Unselect the Downside and Upside check boxes for another behavior. This
setting has no effect unless the temperature differs from one side of the boundary to
the other.

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layer interfaces where the node should not be
applied in the Selection table.

You can visualize the selected interfaces by clicking the Layer cross section preview and
Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 553

 MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT RADIATION

Surface emissivity
The default Surface emissivity ε (a dimensionless number between 0 and 1) is taken
From material. For User defined, it should be specified. An emissivity of 0 means that
the surface emits no radiation at all while an emissivity of 1 means that it is a perfect
blackbody.

Ambient temperature
For User defined, enter an Ambient temperature Tamb. Else, select an Ambient
temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

In 2D, the equation has an additional factor, dz, to account for the
out-of-plane thickness.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Interfaces>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface

554 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Heat Transfer in Films>Interfaces>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Interfaces>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Boundaries>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation, Interface

Temperature, interface (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

Use this node to specify the temperature on the exterior interfaces of a shell and, for
the case of a layered shell, at the interfaces between its layers.

INTERFACE SELECTION
Set the interfaces for which the temperature should be prescribed. These can be
internal interfaces between layers or the top and bottom surfaces. Select the applicable
layers (the default setting is All layered materials) in the Layered Material list. If no
layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for creating a
Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the plus, next
to the Layer Selection setting).

For a Single Layer Material, the temperature is prescribed on both sides by default.
Unselect the Downside and Upside check boxes for another behavior. This setting has
no effect unless the temperature differs from one side of the boundary to the other.

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layer interfaces where the node should not be
applied in the Selection table.

You can visualize the selected interfaces by clicking the Layer cross section preview and
Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

BOUNDARY INTERFACE FEATURES | 555

 The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

TEMPERATURE
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature T0. Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

The equation for this condition is T = T0 where T0 is the prescribed temperature.

CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

You can specify a harmonic variation of the temperature value in a

frequency domain analysis of perturbation type, by adding a Harmonic
Perturbation subnode. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for more
details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Interfaces>Temperature, Interface
Heat Transfer in Films>Interfaces>Temperature, Interface
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Interfaces>Temperature, Interface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Boundaries>Temperature, Interface

556 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Edge Features
The Heat Transfer interfaces have the following edge nodes and subnodes available:

• Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

Interface) Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and
• Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Heat Transfer in Shells interface)
Fracture) • Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin
• Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Interface) Shells)

• Line Heat Source • Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer

in Shells Interface)
• Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer
interface) and Continuity (Heat • Thin Rod
Transfer in Shells Interface)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Heat Flux (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

Use this node to add heat flux across boundaries of a shell. A positive heat flux adds
heat to the domain. This feature adds a heat source (or sink) to edges. It adds a heat
flux q = q0.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

EDGE FEATURES | 557

 You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Flux section
are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The Solid option specifies that the heat flux q0 is defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between
Material and Spatial Frames for details.

558 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

• The default option for the Heat Flux node is Nonsolid, which defines q0 in the spatial
frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT FLUX
These settings are the same as for the Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture)
node available for the other interfaces.

In 2D, q = dzq0 to account for the out-of-plane thickness.

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

Shell Conduction: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/shell_conduction

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Heat Flux

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Egdes>Heat Flux

EDGE FEATURES | 559

 Heat Flux (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture)
Use this subnode to add heat flux across boundaries of a thin layer, a thin film or a
fracture. A positive heat flux adds heat to the layer.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

560 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Flux section
are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The Solid option specifies that the heat flux q0 is defined in the material frame.
Because the heat transfer variables and equations are defined in the spatial frame, the
inputs are internally converted to the spatial frame. See Conversion Between
Material and Spatial Frames for details.
• The default option for the Heat Flux subnode is Nonsolid, which defines q0 in the
spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

HEAT FLUX
Click the General inward heat flux (the default), Convective heat flux, or Heat rate (3D
components only) button.

• If General inward heat flux is selected, it adds q0 to the total flux across the selected
edges. Enter a value for q0 to represent a heat flux that enters the layer. For example,
any electric heater is well represented by this condition and its geometry can be
omitted.
• If Convective heat flux is selected, it adds q0 in the form q0 = h ⋅ (Text − T). Enter the
Heat transfer coefficient h and the External temperature Text. This latter value
depends on the geometry and the ambient flow conditions. For User defined, enter

EDGE FEATURES | 561

 a value or expression. Else, select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient
Thermal Properties node under Definitions.
• 3D Components: If Heat rate is selected, it adds q0 in the form q0 = P0 ⁄ L where L
is equal to the length of the edge selection. Enter the heat rate P0.

• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface)
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures
• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Film>Heat Flux
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fracture>Heat Flux

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Layer, Thin Film, or Fracture selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Heat Flux

Heat Source (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

This node models a linear heat source (or sink). It adds a heat source q = Qb or
q = Pb ⁄ A. A positive q is heating and a negative q is cooling.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

562 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Heat Source
section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Heat Source node is Solid, which specifies that the heat
source Qb is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer variables and
equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally converted to the
spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames for details.

EDGE FEATURES | 563

 • The Nonsolid option defines Qb in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

BOUNDARY HEAT SOURCE

Click the General source (the default) or Heat rate button.

For General source, enter the boundary heat source Qb. A positive Qb is heating and a
negative Qb is cooling.

For Heat rate enter the heat rate Pb. In this case Qb = Pb ⁄ A, where A is the total area
of the selected edges (where A is the product of the layer’s thickness ds by the total
length of the selected edges).

In 2D components, the equation contains an additional factor, dz, to

account for the out-of-plane thickness. This is because the selected points
correspond to edges in a 3D geometry.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

564 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Films>Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Edges>Heat Source

Line Heat Source

This node models a heat source (or sink) that is so thin that it has no thickness in the
model geometry. It is available in 3D on edges. In 2D and 2D axisymmetric, it is
available on points.

In theory, the temperature in a line source in 3D is plus or minus infinity (to

compensate for the fact that the heat source does not have any volume). The finite
element discretization used in COMSOL Multiphysics returns a finite temperature
distribution along the line, but that distribution must be interpreted in a weak sense.

MATERIAL TYPE
Select an option in the Material type list to specify if the inputs of the Line Heat Source
section are defined in the material or spatial frame:

• The default option for the Line Heat Source node is Solid, which specifies that the heat
source Ql is defined in the material frame. Because the heat transfer variables and
equations are defined in the spatial frame, the inputs are internally converted to the
spatial frame. See Conversion Between Material and Spatial Frames for details.

EDGE FEATURES | 565

 • The Nonsolid option defines Ql in the spatial frame. No frame conversion is needed.
• The From material option uses the option selected in the Material type list of the
Material Properties section of the material applied on the domain on which the node
is active.

This option has no effect when the component does not contain a moving
frame because the material and spatial frames are identical in such cases.
With a Deformed Geometry or a Moving Mesh interface, the heat
transfer features automatically account for deformation effects of the
material and spatial frames on heat transfer properties. In particular the
effects of volume changes on the density are considered. See Handling
Frames in Heat Transfer and Material and Spatial Frames for details.

LINE HEAT SOURCE

Click the General source (the default) or Heat rate button.

• If General source is selected, enter a value for the distributed heat source, Ql in unit
power per unit length. A positive Ql corresponds to heating while a negative Ql
corresponds to cooling.
• If Heat rate is selected, enter the heat rate Pl.

HEAT SOURCE RADIUS

With the Heat Transfer Module, you can model the heat source explicitly and apply it
on a cylinder around the line. This section is not available when the node is added
under the Thin Rod feature.

Select the Specify heat source radius check box to define the Heat source radius R. This
averages the source on a cylinder of given radius around the line. This option avoids
obtaining an increasing temperature value at the line when meshing finer than this
radius. It makes use of the diskavg operator for averaging around the source.

See Built-In Operators in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual

for additional information about the diskavg operator.

566 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency
domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

• Handling Frames in Heat Transfer

• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>support>Line Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Solids>support >Line Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fluids>support>Line Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>support>Line Heat Source
Bioheat Transfer>support>Line Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Solids>support >Thin Rod>Line Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat
Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat Transfer selected:
support >Line Heat Source
support >Thin Rod>Line Heat Source

with support as Egdes in 3D and Points in 2D.

Shell Continuity (Heat Transfer interface) and Continuity (Heat

Transfer in Shells Interface)
Use this node to specify the side-by-side continuity conditions on the temperature field
at an edge between two layered materials. By default, the temperature is discontinuous
at the interface between two layered materials.

LAYER SELECTION
Select Source and Destination layered materials from the drop-down lists. This makes
the node applicable on the edges adjacent to both selected layered materials. Click the
Layer cross section preview button to visualize the settings.

EDGE FEATURES | 567

 CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections for more details
about the use of layered materials from physics interfaces.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

The definition of coinciding layer meshes at the continuity interface

results in a more robust continuity condition. See the Mesh elements
settings in the Layer Definition sections of the concerned Single Layer
Material and Layered Material.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Shell Continuity
Heat Transfer in Shells>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Films>Continuity
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Continuity

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Solids selected in the model tree:
Egdes>Shell Continuity

Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Egdes>Continuity

Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture,

and Heat Transfer in Shells interface)
Use this subnode to add surface-to-ambient radiation to lines (geometrical edges in
3D or geometrical points in 2D and 2D axisymmetric) that represent thin boundaries
of a thin layer, a thin film, or a fracture.

The net inward heat flux from surface-to-ambient radiation is

568 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 4 4
– n ⋅ q = εσ ( T amb – T )

where ε is the surface emissivity, σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (a predefined

physical constant), and Tamb is the ambient temperature.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

EDGE FEATURES | 569

 MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT RADIATION

Ambient temperature
For User defined, enter an Ambient temperature Tamb. The default value is
approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20ºC). Else, select an Ambient
temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

Surface emissivity
The default Surface emissivity ε (a dimensionless number between 0 and 1) is taken
From material. For User defined, it should be specified. An emissivity of 0 means that
the surface emits no radiation at all while an emissivity of 1 means that it is a perfect
blackbody.

• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface)
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

570 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Film>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fracture>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation
Heat Transfer in Shells>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Layer, Thin Film, or Fracture selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:

Egdes>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Thermal Insulation (Heat Transfer in Shells Interface)

This node is the default edge condition on shells. On external edges, this condition
means that there is no heat flux across the edge:

–n ⋅ q = 0

On internal edges, this condition means that the temperature field and its flux is
continuous across the edge.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

EDGE FEATURES | 571

 You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Shell Conduction: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/shell_conduction

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Shells>Thermal Insulation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected:
Egdes>Thermal Insulation

572 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Temperature (Thin Layer, Thin Film, Fracture, and Heat Transfer in
Shells)
Use this subnode to specify the temperature on a set of lines (geometrical edges in 3D
or geometrical points in 2D and 2D axisymmetric) that represent the boundaries of a
thin domain (layer, film, fracture, or shell). Only edges (3D) or points (2D and 2D
axisymmetric) adjacent to the boundaries can be selected in the parent node.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• For a general description of layer and interface selections, see The

Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.
• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

EDGE FEATURES | 573

 TEMPERATURE
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature T0. Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

The equation for this condition is T = T0 where T0 is the prescribed temperature.

CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

You can specify a harmonic variation of the temperature value in a

frequency domain analysis of perturbation type, by adding a Harmonic
Perturbation subnode. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for more
details.

• Thin Layer (Heat Transfer interface) and Solid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Thin Film (Heat Transfer interface) and Fluid (Heat Transfer in Shells
interface)
• Fracture (Heat Transfer interface) and Porous Medium (Heat Transfer
in Shells interface)
• Theory for Heat Transfer in Thin Structures

Shell Conduction: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Thin_Structure/shell_conduction

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Layer>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Film>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Fracture>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Shells>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Films>Temperature
Heat Transfer in Fractures>Temperature

574 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Layer, Thin Film, or Fracture selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Temperature

Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Shells selected in the model tree:
Egdes>Temperature

Thin Rod
Use this node to define the thermal and radius properties of conductive rods located
on edges in a 3D component.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Volume reference temperature

This section is available when a temperature-dependent density is used. On the
material frame, the density is evaluated onto a reference temperature to ensure mass
conservation in the presence of temperature variations. By default the Common model
input is used. This corresponds to the variable minput.Tempref, which is set by default
to 293.15 [K]. To edit it, click the Go to Source button ( ), and in the Common Model
Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a value for the Volume reference temperature
in the Expression for remaining selection section.

The other options are User defined and all temperature variables from the physics
interfaces included in the model.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

THIN ROD
The Rod radius rl should be specified.

EDGE FEATURES | 575

 HEAT CONDUCTION
The Thermal conductivity kl should be specified. By default it is taken From material.
For User defined select Isotropic, Diagonal, Symmetric, or Anisotropic to enter another
value or expression.

THERMODYNAMICS
By default the Density ρl and the Heat capacity at constant pressure Cp, l values are taken
From material. See Material Density in Features Defined in the Material Frame if a
temperature-dependent density should be set. For User defined enter other values or
expressions.

These additional subnodes are available for the Thin Rod node:

• Line Heat Source — to add an internal heat source, Ql, within the rod.
• Temperature (Thin Rod) — to set a prescribed temperature condition
on a specified set of points.
• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) — to add a heat flux through a specified
set of points.
• Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Rod) — to add
surface-to-ambient radiation at the rod end points.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer>Edges>Thin Rod
Heat Transfer in Solids>Edges>Thin Rod
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Edges>Thin Rod
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Edges>Thin Rod
Bioheat Transfer>Edges>Thin Rod

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer, Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat
Transfer in Porous Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat Transfer selected:
Edges>Thin Rod

576 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

P o i nt Fe a tur e s
The Heat Transfer interfaces have the following point nodes and subnodes available:

• Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod) • Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin

• Point Heat Source Rod)

• Point Heat Source on Axis • Temperature (Thin Rod)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Point Heat Flux (Thin Rod)

Use this subnode to add heat flux at points of a thin rod. A positive heat flux adds heat
to the rod.

HEAT FLUX
Select either the General inward heat flux (the default) or Convective heat flux buttons.

• If General inward heat flux is selected, it adds q0 to the total flux across the selected
points. Enter a value for q0 to represent a heat flux that enters the rod.
• If Convective heat flux is selected, it adds q0 in the form q0 = h ⋅ (Text − T). Enter the
Heat transfer coefficient h and the External temperature Text. The value depends on
the geometry and the ambient flow conditions.

Thin Rod

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Rod>Point Heat Flux

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Rod>Point Heat Flux

POINT FEATURES | 577

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Rod selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Point Heat Flux

Point Heat Source

This node, available for 3D components, models a heat source (or sink) that is so small
that it can be considered to have no spatial extension.

In theory, the temperature in a point source in 3D is plus infinity (to compensate for
the fact that the heat source does not have a spatial extension). The finite element
discretization used in COMSOL Multiphysics returns a finite value, but that value
must be interpreted in a weak sense.

POINT HEAT SOURCE

Enter the Point heat source Qp in unit power. A positive Qp corresponds to heating
while a negative Qp corresponds to cooling.

HEAT SOURCE RADIUS

With the Heat Transfer Module, you can model the heat source explicitly and apply it
on a ball or disk around the point.

Select the Specify heat source radius check box to define the Heat source radius R. This
setting averages the source on a ball or disk of given radius around the point, and
avoids obtaining an increasing temperature shift at the point when meshing finer than
this radius. It makes use of the ballavg or diskavg operator for averaging around the
source.

See Built-In Operators in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual

for additional information about the ballavg and diskavg operators.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

578 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 • Handling Frames in Heat Transfer
• About the Heat Transfer Interfaces

Heat Conduction with a Localized Heat Source on a Disk: Application

Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Verification_Examples/
localized_heat_source

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Points>Point Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Points>Point Heat Source
Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Points>Point Heat Source
Bioheat Transfer>Points>Point Heat Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous
Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat Transfer selected:
Points>Point Heat Source

Point Heat Source on Axis

This node, available for 2D axisymmetric components, models a heat source (or sink)
that is so small that it can be considered to have no spatial extension.

The settings are the same as for the Point Heat Source node.

You can specify the source to be a harmonic perturbation in a frequency

domain analysis. To mark the source as being a harmonic perturbation,
right-click the node and choose Harmonic Perturbation. Note that this
updates the node’s icon. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for
more details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Points>Point Heat Source on Axis
Heat Transfer in Fluids>Points>Point Heat Source on Axis

POINT FEATURES | 579

 Heat Transfer in Porous Media>Points>Point Heat Source on Axis
Bioheat Transfer>Points>Point Heat Source on Axis

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Heat Transfer in Solids, Heat Transfer in Fluids, Heat Transfer in Porous
Media, Heat Transfer in Building Materials, or Bioheat Transfer selected:
Points>Point Heat Source on Axis

Surface-to-Ambient Radiation (Thin Rod)

Use this subnode to add surface-to-ambient radiation to points that represent
boundaries of a thin rod.

The net inward heat flux from surface-to-ambient radiation is


4 4
lim Q ds = d s εσ ( T amb – T )
∂S → 0 ∂S

where ε is the surface emissivity, σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (a predefined

physical constant), and Tamb is the ambient temperature.

MODEL INPUT
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

Temperature
This section is available when temperature-dependent material properties are used. By
default the temperature of the parent interface is used and the section is not editable.
To edit the Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ). The available
options are User defined (default), Common model input (the minput.T variable, set to
293.15 [K] by default) and all temperature variables from the physics interfaces
included in the model. To edit the minput.T variable, click the Go to Source
button ( ), and in the Common Model Inputs node under Global Definitions, set a
value for the Temperature in the Expression for remaining selection section.

SURFACE-TO-AMBIENT RADIATION

Ambient temperature
For User defined, enter an Ambient temperature Tamb. The default value is
approximately room temperature, 293.15 K (20ºC). Else, select an Ambient
temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

580 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Surface emissivity
The default Surface emissivity ε (a dimensionless number between 0 and 1) is taken
From material. For User defined, it should be specified. An emissivity of 0 means that
the surface emits no radiation at all while an emissivity of 1 means that it is a perfect
blackbody.

Thin Rod

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Rod>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Rod>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Rod selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Surface-to-Ambient Radiation

Temperature (Thin Rod)

Use this subnode to specify the temperature on a set of points that represent
boundaries of a rod. Only points adjacent to the boundaries can be selected in the
parent node.

TEMPERATURE
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Temperature T0. Else, select an
Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.
The equation for this condition is T = T0 where T0 is the prescribed temperature on
the points.

CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.

Thin Rod

POINT FEATURES | 581

 You can specify a harmonic variation of the temperature value in a
frequency domain analysis of perturbation type, by adding a Harmonic
Perturbation subnode. See Theory for Harmonic Heat Transfer for more
details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Heat Transfer in Solids>Thin Rod>Temperature

More locations are available. For example:

Heat Transfer in Fluids>Thin Rod>Temperature

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Thin Rod selected in the model tree:
Attributes>Temperature

582 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

Global Features
The Heat Transfer interfaces have the following global nodes available:

• External Radiation Source

• Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface
Radiation

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

External Radiation Source

Use this node in 2D and 3D components to define an external radiation source as a
point or directional radiation source with view factor calculation. Each External
Radiation Source node contributes to the incident radiative heat flux on all spectral
bands, GBi on all the boundaries where a Diffuse Surface or Diffuse Mirror boundary
condition is active. The source contribution, GextDir, i, is equal to the product of the
view factor of the source by the source radiosity. For radiation sources located on a
point, GextDir, i=Fext, i Ps, i. For directional radiative source, GextDir, i =Fext, i q0, s.

Only direct irradiation from the source is accounted for. Diffuse irradiation inclusion
is controlled through the Include diffuse radiation check box in Ambient section of
Diffuse Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) and Diffuse Mirror
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) features.

• The external radiation sources are ignored on the boundaries when

neither Diffuse Surface nor Diffuse Mirror is active.
• If this feature is combined with heat transfer in 2D and 1D, the
thickness is assumed to be infinite for the view factor computation. The
user-defined value for dz is still used in the heat transfer equation.

EXTERNAL RADIATION SOURCE

Select a Source position: Point coordinate (the default) or Infinite distance. In 3D, Solar
position is also available.

GLOBAL FEATURES | 583

 Point Coordinate
For Point coordinate define the Source location xs. The source radiates uniformly in all
directions.

xs should not belong to any surface where a Diffuse Surface or Diffuse

Mirror boundary condition is active.

Infinite Distance
For Infinite distance define the Incident radiation direction is.

Solar Position

Solar position is available for 3D components. When this option is

selected, use it to estimate the external radiative heat source due to the
direct striking of the Sun rays.

North, west, and the up directions correspond to the x, y, and z

directions, respectively. Azimuth angle is measured from true north,
hence x direction corresponds to true north as well.

Depending on the presence of an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions

and on the type of Ambient data selected in this node, further parameters should be set
for the definition of the location on earth.

If the type of Ambient data is Meteorological data (ASHRAE 2013) or Meteorological data
(ASHRAE 2017) in the Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions, it is available
in the Ambient data list of the External Radiation Source node. When selected from this
list, the location is set to the Weather station selected in the Ambient Thermal Properties
node under Definitions. Click to select the Include daylight saving time (Time zone + 1)
check box to add one hour to the default setting for the station selected.

Else, when Ambient data is User defined in the Ambient Thermal Properties node under
Definitions, None is the only option in the Ambient data list of the External Radiation
Source node, and the following parameters should be set.

Select an option from the Location defined by list: Coordinates (the default) or City.

For City select a predefined city and country combination from the list. Click to select
the Include daylight saving time (Time zone + 1) check box to add one hour to the
default setting for the city selected. For example, if New York City, USA is selected and

584 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

the default standard time zone is UTC–5 hours, when the check box is selected, the
daylight saving time is used instead (UTC–4 hours).

If Coordinates is selected, or your city is not listed in the Location defined by table, define
the following parameters:

• Latitude, a decimal value, positive in the northern hemisphere (the default is

Greenwich UK latitude, 51.477). Enter a value without a unit to avoid double
conversion. This is because the latitude value is expected to represent degrees but
the model’s unit for angles may be different (for example, the SI unit for the angle
is radians).
• Longitude, a decimal value, positive at the east of the Prime Meridian (the default is
Greenwich UK longitude, −0.0005). Enter a value without a unit to avoid double
conversion. This is because the latitude value is expected to represent degrees but
the model’s unit for angles may be different (for example, the SI unit for the angle
is radians).
• Time zone, the number of hours to add to UTC to get local time (the default is
Greenwich UK time zone, 0). For example in New York City, USA the time zone is
UTC–5 hours (standard time zone) or UTC–4 hours (with daylight saving time).

For either selection (City or Coordinates), in the Date table enter the:

• Day, the default is 01. Enter a value without a unit to avoid double conversion. This
is because the value is expected to represent days but the model’s unit for time may
be different (for example, the SI unit for time is seconds).
• Month, the default is 6 (June). Enter a value without a unit to avoid double
conversion. This is because the value is expected to represent months but the
model’s unit for time may be different (for example, the SI unit for time is seconds).
• Year, the default is 2012. Enter a value without a unit to avoid double conversion.
This is because the value is expected to represent years but the model’s unit for time
may be different (for example, the SI unit for time is seconds). The solar position is
accurate for a date between 2000 and 2199.

For either selection (City or Coordinates), in the Local time table enter the:

• Hour, the default is 12. Enter a value without a unit to avoid double conversion. This
is because the value is expected to represent hours but the model’s unit for time may
be different (for example, the SI unit for time is seconds).

GLOBAL FEATURES | 585

 • Minute, the default is 0. Enter a value without a unit to avoid double conversion.
This is because the value is expected to represent minutes but the model’s unit for
time may be different (for example, the SI unit for time is seconds).
• Second, the default is 0.

For temporal studies, these inputs define the starting time of the simulation. By
default, the Update time from solver check box is selected, and the time is then
automatically updated with the time from the solver. Unselect this check box to
manually set the time update.

For either selection of Ambient data type in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under
Definitions, define the Solar irradiance field Is as the incident radiative intensity coming
directly from the sun. Is represents the heat flux received from the sun by a surface
perpendicular to the sun rays. When surfaces are not perpendicular to the sun rays the
heat flux received from the sun depends on the incident angle.

For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Solar irradiance Is. Else, select a
Clear sky noon beam normal irradiance defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node
under Definitions.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands, the solar irradiance is divided among all spectral bands Bi as
qs, i = q0,sFEPi(Tsun) where FEPi(Tsun) is the fractional blackbody emissive power
over Bi interval at Tsun = 5780 K.

RADIATIVE INTENSITY
This section is available when Source position is set either to Point coordinate or Infinite
distance.

Point coordinate
If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant, enter a value or expression
to define the Source heat rate Ps.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands, set the Radiative intensity to Blackbody, User defined for each band, or User
defined.

When Radiative intensity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the Source
heat rate distribution Ps,λ. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. This distribution is integrated on each spectral band to obtain the source heat
rate Ps,i for each spectral band.

586 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

When Radiative intensity is set to Blackbody, enter a value for the Source temperature Ts
and the Source heat rate Ps, to define the source power on the spectral band Bi as
Ps, i = FEPi(Ts)Ps where FEPi(Ts) is the fractional blackbody emissive power over Bi
interval at Ts.

When Radiative intensity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the Source
heat rate Ps,i for each spectral band.

Infinite distance
If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Constant, enter a value or expression
to define the Source heat flux q0,s. Alternatively, select a Clear sky noon beam normal
irradiance defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

If Wavelength dependence of surface properties is Solar and ambient or Multiple spectral

bands, set the Radiative intensity to Blackbody, User defined for each band, or User
defined.

When Radiative intensity is set to User defined, enter a value or expression for the Source
heat flux distribution q0,s,λ. The wavelength may be accessed through the rad.lambda
variable. This distribution is integrated on each spectral band to obtain the source heat
flux q0,s,i for each spectral band.

When Radiative intensity is set to Blackbody, enter a value for the Source temperature Ts
and the Source heat flux q0,s, to define the source heat flux on the spectral band Bi as
qs, i = FEPi(Ts)q0,s where FEPi(Ts) is the fractional blackbody emissive power over Bi
interval at Ts.

When Radiative intensity is set to User defined for each band, enter a value for the Source
heat flux q0,s,i for each spectral band.

The Wavelength dependence of surface properties is defined in the physics

interface settings, in the Radiation Settings section. When only one
spectral band is defined, the i subscript in variable names is removed.

GLOBAL FEATURES | 587

 The sun position is updated if the location, date, or local time changes
during a simulation. In particular for transient analysis, if the unit system
for the time is in seconds (the default), the time change can be taken into
account by adding t to the Second field in the Local time table. Note that
no validity range is prescribed on the time inputs. It is possible to enter
values that exceed the expected boundary. For example, entering 5h 2min
81s is equivalent to 5h 3min 21s. This makes it possible to enter t in the
second field, even if the solution is computed for more than 60s.

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

Sun’s Radiation Effect on Two Coolers Placed Under a Parasol:

Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/Thermal_Radiation/parasol

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Global>External Radiation Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Global>External Radiation Source

Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

Use this node to compute view factors on only a part of a symmetric geometry to
improve efficiency, by defining either one symmetry plane in 2D, 2D axisymmetric,
and 3D components, multiple perpendicular symmetry planes in 2D and 3D
components; or sectors of symmetry in 2D and 3D components. In addition, a

588 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

reflection plane can be defined inside each sector of symmetry. Table 6-6 summarizes
the available options for each dimension.
TABLE 6-6: OPTIONS FOR SYMMETRY DEFINITION, EXAMPLE WITH 5 SECTORS

SYMMETRY 2D 2D AXISYMMETRIC 3D
TYPE

One Plane

Two Not applicable

Planes

Three Not applicable Not applicable

Planes

GLOBAL FEATURES | 589

 TABLE 6-6: OPTIONS FOR SYMMETRY DEFINITION, EXAMPLE WITH 5 SECTORS

SYMMETRY 2D 2D AXISYMMETRIC 3D
TYPE

Sectors Not applicable

Sectors Not applicable

and
Reflection

SYMMETRY FOR SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION

Depending on component’s dimension, select the Type of symmetry to be defined:

• In 2D components, select between Plane of symmetry (the default), Two

perpendicular planes of symmetry, or Sectors of symmetry.
• In 2D axisymmetric components, only the Plane of symmetry option is available.
• In 3D components, select between Plane of symmetry (the default), Two
perpendicular planes of symmetry, Three perpendicular planes of symmetry, or Sectors
of symmetry.
Depending on the Type of symmetry selected from the list and on the dimension,
further settings are required.

Plane of symmetry
The coordinates of the points defining the plane should be set:

• In 2D components, the symmetry plane is defined by two points. If the Selection

method is Coordinates, set the x and y coordinates of the First point on plane of
reflection and of the Second point on plane of reflection. Else, if the Selection method
is Point Selection, you can directly select the points from the Graphics window. In the
Selection of First Point and Selection of Second Point sections, first use the Active
button to toggle between turning ON and OFF selections, that is,

590 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 making the selections active for that selection list. Then select the points from the
Graphics window.
• In 2D axisymmetric components, the symmetry plane is parallel to the z=0 plane. If
the Selection method is Coordinates, set the z coordinate of plane of reflection, zsym.
Else, if the Selection method is Point Selection, you can directly select the point from
the Graphics window. In the Selection of the Point Defining the Plane of Reflection
section, first use the Active button to toggle between turning ON and OFF
selections, that is, making the selection active for that selection list. Then
select the point from the Graphics window.
• In 3D components, the symmetry plane is defined by three points. If the Selection
method is Coordinates, set the x, y, and z coordinates of the First point on plane of
reflection, the Second point on plane of reflection, and the Third point on plane of
reflection. Else, if the Selection method is Point Selection, you can directly select the
points from the Graphics window. In the Selection of First Point, Selection of Second
Point, and Selection of Third Point sections, first use the Active button to toggle
between turning ON and OFF selections, that is, making the
selections active for that selection list. Then select the points from the Graphics
window.
The Show the plane of symmetry check box is selected by default. Clear it to hide the
plane in the Graphics window.

Two perpendicular planes of symmetry

• In 2D components, the planes intersection line is along the out-of-plane direction.
The Point at the intersection of symmetry planes and the Rotation angle from
Cartesian axis, θ, should be defined.
• In 3D components, the Planes intersection line can be set Along the x-axis, Along the
y-axis, or Along the z-axis. A Point at the intersection of symmetry planes and the
Rotation angle from Cartesian axis, θ, should be defined. The position of the point
along the intersection line can be arbitrary as it does not change the planes
definition. The direction of the angle θ can be checked on the figure displayed below
the settings, for each case of alignment of the intersection line.
The Show the planes of symmetry check box is selected by default. Clear it to hide the
planes in the Graphics window.

Three perpendicular planes of symmetry

The planes are parallel to the Cartesian axis. Only the Point at the intersection of
symmetry planes should be defined.

GLOBAL FEATURES | 591

 The Show the planes of symmetry check box is selected by default. Clear it to hide the
planes in the Graphics window.

Sectors of symmetry
The coordinates of the points defining the symmetry axis should be set:

• In 2D components, the symmetry axis is the out-of-plane vector, and the center of
the symmetry must be defined. Set the x and y coordinates of the Point of central
symmetry.
• In 3D components, the symmetry axis is defined by two points. Set the x, y, and z
coordinates of the First point defining sector symmetry axis and the Second point
defining sector symmetry axis.

Enter a value for the Number of sectors. This should be a numerical value greater or
equal to 2.

If the Reflection for symmetrical sector check box is selected, set the coordinates of the
Radial direction of reflection plane, u. This option may be used when each sector has
itself a plane of symmetry.

• The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface

• Theory for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Surface-to-Surface Radiation>Global>Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Surface-to-Surface Radiation selected:
Global>Symmetry for Surface-to-Surface Radiation

592 | CHAPTER 6: THE HEAT TRANSFER FEATURES

 7

The Moisture Transport Features

The Moisture Transport Interface has domain, boundary, and pair nodes available.
These nodes, listed in alphabetical order in this section, are available from the
Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows users), from the Physics context menu (Mac or
Linux users), or by right-clicking to access the context menu (all users).

In this section:

• Domain Features
• Boundary Features

593
 Domain Features
The Moisture Transport interface has the following domain nodes available:

• Building Material • Moisture Source

• Initial Values • Turbulent Mixing
• Moist Air (MT Interface)

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Building Material
Use this node to model moisture transfer in a building material through vapor
diffusion and capillary moisture flows. The moisture content variation is expressed
through the transfer of relative humidity

∂φ
ξ ------ + ∇ ⋅ g = G (7-1)
∂t

g = – ( ξD w ∇φ + δ p ∇( φp sat ) ) (7-2)

with the following material properties, fields, and source:

• ξ (SI unit: kg/m3) is the moisture storage capacity.

• δp (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability.
• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• psat (SI unit: Pa) is the vapor saturation pressure.
• T (SI unit: K) is the temperature.
• Dw (SI unit: m2/s) is the moisture diffusivity.
• G (SI unit: kg/(m3⋅s)) is the moisture source (or sink). See the Moisture Source
node.

For a steady-state problem, the relative humidity does not change with time and the
first term disappears.

594 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

The transfer equation above, specifically designed for building materials under various
assumptions, should be used carefully for some other type of porous media.

MODEL INPUTS
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

The default Temperature Τ and Absolute pressure pA are User defined. When additional
physics interfaces are added to the model, the temperature and absolute pressure
variables defined by these physics interfaces can also be selected from the list. For
example, if a Heat Transfer in Building Materials interface is added, you can select
Temperature (ht) from the list. If a Laminar Flow interface is added, you can select
Absolute pressure (spf) from the list.

If the node was added automatically after selecting the Heat and Moisture Transport
predefined multiphysics interface, the temperature of the Heat and Moisture
multiphysics node is used by default and the input field is not editable. To edit the
Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ).

BUILDING MATERIAL
This section sets the material properties for moisture diffusivity, moisture storage, and
vapor diffusion.

The default Moisture diffusivity Dw is taken From material. For User defined, set a value
to characterize the liquid transport in function of the moisture content.

The default Moisture storage function w is taken From material. For User defined, set a
value to characterize the relationship between the amount of accumulated water and
the relative humidity in the material.

Two options are available for the specification of the material properties for vapor
diffusion:

• Vapor permeability (default) to define the vapor permeability δp directly. The default
is taken From material. For User defined, set a value.
• Vapor resistance factor μ to define the vapor permeability δp as:

δ
δ p = ---
μ

DOMAIN FEATURES | 595

 where δ (SI unit: s) is the vapor permeability of still air. The default Vapor resistance
factor is taken From material. For User defined, set a value.

The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces

Heat and Moisture

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties required by the Building Material node.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Building Material
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Building Material

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>Building Material

Initial Values
This node adds an initial value for the relative humidity that can serve as an initial
condition for a transient simulation or as an initial guess for a nonlinear solver. In
addition to the default Initial Values node always present in the interface, you can add
more Initial Values nodes if needed.

INITIAL VALUES
For User defined, enter a value or expression for the initial value of the Relative humidity
φ . The default value is 0.5. Else, select an Ambient relative humidity defined in an
Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

596 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Initial Values
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Initial Values

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>Initial Values

Moist Air (MT Interface)

Use this node to model moisture transfer in moist air through vapor diffusion and
convection. The moisture content variation is expressed through the transport of vapor
concentration, which itself can be expressed as the product of molar mass of water,
relative humidity, and vapor saturation concentration:

∂c v
M v --------- + M v u ⋅ ∇c v + ∇ ⋅ g = G (7-3)
∂t

g = – M v D ∇c v (7-4)

c v = φc sat (7-5)

with the following material properties, fields, and source:

• Μv (SI unit: kg/mol) is the molar mass of water vapor.

• φ (dimensionless) is the relative humidity.
• csat (SI unit: mol/m3) is the vapor saturation concentration.
• D (SI unit: m2/s) is the vapor diffusion coefficient in air.
• u (SI unit: m/s) is the air velocity field.
• G (SI unit: kg/(m3⋅s)) is the moisture source (or sink). See Moisture Source node.
For a steady-state problem, the relative humidity does not change with time and the
first term disappears.

DOMAIN FEATURES | 597

 MODEL INPUTS
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions used in Equation 7-3,
Equation 7-4, and Equation 7-5. The temperature is used for the definition of the
saturation conditions, whereas the velocity field is used in the convection term.

The default Temperature Τ and Velocity field u are User defined. When additional
physics interfaces are added to the model, the temperature and velocity field variables
defined by these physics interfaces can also be selected from the list. For example, if a
Heat Transfer in Building Materials interface is added, you can select Temperature (ht)
from the list. If a Laminar Flow interface is added, you can select Velocity field (spf) from
the list.

If the node was added automatically after selecting the Heat and Moisture Transport
predefined multiphysics interface, the temperature of the Heat and Moisture
multiphysics node is used by default and the input field is not editable. To edit the
Temperature field, click Make All Model Inputs Editable ( ).

The Moisture Transport in Building Materials Interface

The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces

Heat and Moisture

See Turbulent Mixing to account for eddy diffusivity in moisture

convection by turbulent flows.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moist Air
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moist Air

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>Moist Air

598 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

Moisture Source
This node describes moisture generation within the domain. You express addition and
removal of moisture content with positive and negative values, respectively. Add one
or more nodes as needed — all moisture sources within a domain contribute with each
other.

The Moisture Source node adds a source term G to the right-hand side of the moisture
transport equation:

G = G0

MOISTURE SOURCE
Enter a value or expression for the Moisture Source G0 per unit volume.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moisture Source
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moisture Source

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Domains>Moisture Source

Turbulent Mixing
This subnode should be used to account for the turbulent mixing caused by the eddy
diffusivity in moisture convection, for example when the specified velocity field
corresponds to a RANS solution.

The Turbulent Mixing node adds the following contribution to the diffusion coefficient
D of Equation 7-4 of Moist Air (MT Interface) node:

νT
D T = ----------
Sc T

where νT is the turbulent kinematic viscosity (SI unit: m2/s) and ScT is the turbulent
Schmidt number (dimensionless).

DOMAIN FEATURES | 599

 TURBULENT MIXING PARAMETERS
Enter a value or expression for the Turbulent kinematic viscosity νT and the Turbulent
Schmidt number ScT. If a turbulent fluid flow interface is active, the Turbulent kinematic
viscosity can be taken directly from this interface.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moist Air>Turbulent Mixing
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moist Air>Turbulent Mixing

Ribbon
Physics Tab with Moist Air selected in the model tree:
Domains>Turbulent Mixing

600 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

Boundary Features
The Moisture Transport interface has the following boundary nodes available:

• Continuity • Outflow
• Insulation • Symmetry
• Moist Surface • Thin Moisture Barrier
• Moisture Content • Wet Surface
• Moisture Flux

For axisymmetric components, COMSOL Multiphysics takes the axial

symmetry boundaries into account and automatically adds an Axial
Symmetry node that is valid on the axial symmetry boundaries only.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Continuity
This node can be added to pairs. It prescribes that the relative humidity is continuous
across the pair. Continuity is only suitable for pairs where the boundaries match.

PAIR SELECTION
Choose the pair on which to apply this condition. A pair has to be created first. See
Identity and Contact Pairs in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more
details.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Pairs>Continuity
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Pairs>Continuity

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 601

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Pairs>Continuity

Insulation
This node is the default boundary condition for the Moisture Transport interface. This
boundary condition means that there is no moisture flux across the boundary:

–n ⋅ g = 0

and hence specifies where the domain is insulated. Intuitively, this equation says that
the relative humidity gradient across the boundary is zero. For this to be true, the
relative humidity on one side of the boundary must equal the relative humidity on the
other side. Because there is no relative humidity difference across the boundary,
moisture cannot transfer across it. It can be applied on exterior boundaries only.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Insulation
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Insulation

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Insulation

Moist Surface
This node should be used to model evaporation from and condensation to a solid
surface partially covered with liquid water. It adds the evaporation flux to the boundary
conditions of Equation 7-4 of Moist Air (MT Interface) node, and computes the
corresponding latent heat source to be added in the heat transfer equation. In
addition, it computes the liquid water concentration accumulated on the surface,
during evaporation and condensation processes.

It can be applied on the exterior boundaries of a domain where the Moist Air (MT
Interface) node is active.

602 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

In time-dependent studies, the evaporation flux gevap (SI unit: kg/(m2⋅s)) is defined
as:


 M K ( c sat – c v ) if c v > c sat or c l > 0
g evap =  v
 0 otherwise


where Mv is the molar mass of water vapor (SI unit: kg/mol), K is the evaporation rate
factor (SI unit: m/s), csat is the saturation concentration of vapor (SI unit: mol/m3),
cv is the vapor concentration (SI unit: mol/m3), and cl is the liquid water
concentration on surface (SI unit: mol/m2).

The liquid water concentration on surface is computed by solving the following

equation:

∂c l
M v ------- = – g evap
∂t

with the initial condition:

c l ( 0 ) = c l, init

In stationary studies, the initial liquid concentration is used in the definition of the
evaporation flux:


 M K ( c sat – c v ) if c v > c sat or c l, init > 0
g evap =  v
 0 otherwise


The latent heat source qevap (SI unit: W/m2) is obtained by multiplying the
evaporation flux by the latent heat of evaporation Lv (SI unit: J/kg):

q evap = L v g evap

With these definitions, gevap is negative when condensation occurs, and positive
during evaporation. Whereas the condensation process does not depend on the liquid
concentration on the surface, the evaporation process only happens when the (initial
or time-dependent) liquid concentration on surface is positive.

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 603

 MOIST SURFACE SETTINGS
Enter values or expressions for the Evaporation rate factor K and the Initial liquid water
concentration on moist surface cl,init.

See Wet Surface node for the modeling of evaporation and condensation
on a solid surface completely covered with liquid water.

When a Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling node is active, the

resulting latent heat source is automatically added as a boundary heat
source into the heat transfer equation.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moist Surface
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moist Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Moist Surface

Moisture Content
Use this node to specify the relative humidity on interior and exterior boundaries.

PAIR SELECTION
If this node is selected from the Pairs menu, choose the pair on which to apply this
condition. A pair has to be created first. See Identity and Contact Pairs in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

MOISTURE CONTENT
The equation for this condition is φ = φ 0 , where φ 0 is the prescribed relative
humidity on the boundary. For User defined, enter a value or expression for the Relative
humidity φ 0 . The default value is 0.5. Else, select an Ambient relative humidity defined
in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions.

604 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

CONSTRAINT SETTINGS
To display this section, click the Show button ( ) and select Advanced Physics Options.
Select the Use weak constraints check box to replace the standard constraints with a
weak implementation.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moisture Content
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moisture Content
Moisture Transport in Air>Pairs>Moisture Content
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Pairs>Moisture Content

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Moisture Content
Pairs>Moisture Content

Moisture Flux
Use this node to add moisture flux across exterior boundaries, with the option to
account for latent heat source due to evaporation. A positive moisture flux adds
moisture to the domain.

MOISTURE FLUX
Click to select the General moisture flux (the default), Convective moisture flux,
concentrations difference, or Convective moisture flux, pressures difference button.

General Moisture Flux

It adds g0 to the total flux across the selected boundaries. Enter a positive value for g0
to represent a moisture flux that enters the domain.

Convective Moisture Flux, Concentrations Difference

Several options are available to specify the Moisture transfer coefficient hm.

• The default option is to enter a User defined value for hm.

• With the From heat and moisture transport analogy option, the heat transfer
coefficient h to be multiplied by the analogy factor to obtain the moisture transfer
coefficient hm should be specified. It can be User defined (in this case the Absolute
pressure, pA, the External temperature, Text, and the External relative humidity, φ ext

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 605

 should be specified) or selected from a list of heat transfer coefficients defined in
Heat Flux features applied on the same boundary (in this case the external
conditions defined in the corresponding Heat Flux feature are used).
• For the External natural convection, Internal natural convection, External forced
convection, and Internal forced convection options, the geometry and velocity
parameters used in the correlation are the same as for the Heat Flux feature. Then
the external conditions should be specified. First, set the Absolute pressure, pA. For
User Defined, enter a value or expression. Else, select an Ambient absolute pressure
defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under Definitions. In addition, enter
an External temperature, Text. For User defined, enter a value or expression. Else,
select an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal Properties node under
Definitions. Finally, set the External relative humidity, φ ext . Note that the relative
humidity at the boundary is provided by the physics interface.

For all options except User defined, select the Specify the exponent in the analogy factor
check box to set the variable n in Equation 4-168.

Convective Moisture Flux, Pressures Difference

Enter a value for the Moisture transfer coefficient βp. In addition, two options are
available to specify the external conditions:

• If Relative humidity is selected (the default), set the External relative humidity, φ ext
and the External temperature, Text (used for the computation of the vapor saturation
pressure). For User defined, enter values or expressions. Else, select an Ambient
relative humidity and an Ambient temperature defined in an Ambient Thermal
Properties node under Definitions. Convective moisture flux is defined by
g0 = βp( φ ext psat(Text) − φ psat(T)).
• If Partial vapor pressure is selected, enter an External partial vapor pressure, pv,ext.
Convective moisture flux is defined by g0 = βp(pv,ext − φ psat(T)).

EVAPORATION
Select the Contributes to evaporation flux check box to define the moisture flux as an
evaporation flux, and to contribute to the total latent heat source mt.q_evaptot.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Moisture Flux
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Moisture Flux

606 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Moisture Flux

Outflow
This node provides a boundary condition at outlets where the vapor is transported out
of the air domain. It is assumed that convection is the dominating transport
mechanism across outflow boundaries, and therefore that diffusive transport can be
ignored, that is:

– n ⋅ D ∇( M v φc sat ) = 0

This node can be applied on the exterior boundaries of a computational domain in

which a Moist Air (MT Interface) node is active.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Outflow
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Outflow

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Outflow

Symmetry
This node provides a boundary condition for symmetry boundaries. This boundary
condition is similar to an Insulation condition, and it means that there is no moisture
flux across the boundary. It can be applied on exterior boundaries only.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Symmetry
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Symmetry

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 607

 Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Symmetry

Thin Moisture Barrier

Use this node to model a discontinuous moisture content across interior boundaries.
By default it models a vapor barrier, with the moisture transfer coefficient β accounting
for vapor diffusion only. A more general moisture barrier can be defined through the
specification of a user-defined moisture transfer coefficient.

The upside and downside moisture fluxes are defined by β ( φ d – φ u ) and β ( φ u – φ d ) ,

respectively.

MODEL INPUTS
This section has fields and values that are inputs to expressions that define material
properties for vapor permeability, vapor resistance factor, and saturation pressure of
water vapor. If such user-defined property groups are added, the model inputs appear
here.

THIN MOISTURE BARRIER

Two options are available to define the moisture flux:

• If Vapor barrier material properties is selected (the default), the moisture transfer
coefficient β is defined as

δp sat δ p p sat δp sat

β = -------------- = ----------------- = --------------
μd s ds sd

where δ is the vapor permeability of still air (SI unit: s), psat is the saturation pressure
of water vapor (SI unit: Pa), μ is the vapor resistance factor (dimensionless), δp is the

608 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

 vapor permeability (SI unit: s), sd is the vapor diffusion equivalent air layer thickness
(SI unit: m), and ds is the layer thickness (SI unit: m).
Depending on the option selected in Specify — Vapor resistance factor (the default),
Vapor permeability, or Vapor diffusion equivalent air layer thickness, enter values or
expressions for the needed properties, or use properties From material.
• If Moisture transfer coefficient is selected, enter a value or expression for the Moisture
transfer coefficient β.

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties required by the Thin Moisture Barrier node.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Thin Moisture Barrier
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Thin Moisture Barrier

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Thin Moisture Barrier

Wet Surface
This node should be used to model evaporation from and condensation to a solid
surface completely covered with liquid water. It adds the evaporation flux to the
boundary conditions of Equation 7-4 of Moist Air (MT Interface) node, and
computes the corresponding latent heat source to be added in the heat transfer
equation.

It can be applied on the exterior boundaries of a domain where the Moist Air (MT
Interface) node is active.

The evaporation flux gevap (SI unit: kg/(m2⋅s)) is defined as:

g evap = M v K ( c sat – c v )

BOUNDARY FEATURES | 609

 where Mv is the molar mass of water vapor (SI unit: kg/mol), K is the evaporation rate
factor (SI unit: m/s), csat is the saturation concentration of vapor (SI unit: mol/m3),
and cv is the vapor concentration (SI unit: mol/m3).

The latent heat source qevap (SI unit: W/m2) is obtained by multiplying the
evaporation flux by the latent heat of evaporation Lv (SI unit: J/kg):

q evap = L v g evap

WET SURFACE SETTINGS

Enter a value or expression for the Evaporation rate factor K.

See Moist Surface node for the computation of the amount of liquid
water accumulated on a solid surface partially covered with liquid water,
due to evaporation and condensation.

When a Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling node is active, the

resulting latent heat source is automatically added as a boundary heat
source into the heat transfer equation.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Moisture Transport in Air>Wet Surface
Moisture Transport in Building Materials>Wet Surface

Ribbon
Physics Tab with interface as Moisture Transport in Air or Moisture Transport in Building
Materials selected:
Boundaries>Wet Surface

610 | CHAPTER 7: THE MOISTURE TRANSPORT FEATURES

 8

Multiphysics Interfaces

The Heat Transfer Module includes predefined multiphysics interfaces for

conjugate heat transfer, radiative heat transfer, thermoelectric effect, local thermal
non-equilibrium, coupled heat transfer and moisture transport, and moisture flow
modeling.

Some of these interfaces couple an interface of the Heat Transfer Module with an
interface of another module (the CFD Module or AC/DC Module).

The multiphysics interfaces are found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ), and
their availability depends on the COMSOL products available.

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each

product, visit
http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

The multiphysics interfaces add Domain Multiphysics Couplings and Boundary

Multiphysics Couplings. They predefine the couplings through specific settings in

611
 the multiphysics couplings and in the constituent interfaces to facilitate easy set up of
models. These settings are detailed in the following sections:

• The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer Interfaces

• The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface
• The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media Interface
• The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface
• The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface
• The Thermoelectric Effect Interface
• The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface
• The Heat and Moisture Transport Interfaces
• The Moisture Flow Interfaces
• The Heat and Moisture Flow Interfaces
A brief description of other multiphysics interfaces coupling an interface of the Heat
Transfer Module with other interfaces is given in the following sections:

• The Joule Heating Interface

• The Laser Heating Interface
• The Induction Heating Interface
• The Microwave Heating Interface
Links to thorough information about these interfaces are given in the corresponding
sections.

Also:

• See The Thermal Stress Interface and The Joule Heating and Thermal Expansion
Interface in the Structural Mechanics Module User’s Guide for other multiphysics
interfaces having The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface as a constituent interface.
These two multiphysics interfaces (found under the Structural Mechanics
branch ( )) add in particular the Thermal Expansion multiphysics coupling.
• See each constituent interface documentation for more details about the common
settings (in The Heat Transfer Module Interfaces for the Heat Transfer Module
interfaces, and in the other modules documentation for the other interfaces).
• See The Heat Transfer Features and The Moisture Transport Features for details
about the features available with the Heat Transfer Module constituent interfaces.
• See Multiphysics Couplings for details about the multiphysics couplings added with
the Heat Transfer Module predefined multiphysics interfaces.

612 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The predefined interfaces are found under the branches of the Model Wizard or Add
Physics windows. They add the constituent interfaces and the Multiphysics node
containing one or more multiphysics couplings.

On the figure below, the predefined interface Conjugate Heat Transfer, Laminar Flow is
found under the Heat Transfer branch. It adds the Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids
and Laminar Flow constituent interfaces, and the Multiphysics node containing the
Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling.

| 613
 T he No ni s o the rmal Fl ow an d
Conjugate Heat Transfer Interfaces
In this section:

• Advantages of Using the Multiphysics Interfaces

• The Nonisothermal Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Interfaces
• The Conjugate Heat Transfer, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Interfaces
• Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features
• Coupling Features
• Physics Interface Features
• Preset Studies
See The Laminar Flow Interface, The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus Interface, The
Turbulent Flow, L-VEL Interface, The Turbulent Flow, k-ε Interface, and The
Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε Interface in the CFD Module User’s Guide for a
description of the laminar and turbulent single-phase flow interfaces.

See Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide for a description of the nodes associated to these interfaces.

Advantages of Using the Multiphysics Interfaces

The Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer interfaces combine the heat
equation with either laminar flow or turbulent flow and use either a Fluid, Porous
Medium, or Phase Change Material domain model. The advantage of using the
multiphysics interfaces is that predefined couplings are available in both directions. In
particular, physics interfaces use the same definition of the density, which can therefore
be a function of both pressure and temperature. Solving this coupled system of

614 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

equations usually requires numerical stabilization accounting for the couplings, which
the predefined multiphysics interfaces also set up.

When the flow Compressibility is set to Incompressible flow, the

Nonisothermal Flow coupling follows the Boussinesq approximation and
evaluates the thermal material properties at the reference temperature
define in the heat transfer interface. Hence, the Phase Change Material
domain model—which requires the temperature dependency of the heat
capacity—should be used only with the Weakly compressible flow and
Compressible flow (Ma<0.3) options.

When the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat Transfer interfaces

couple a turbulent flow with a Phase Change Material domain model, it
must be noted that only the geometry boundaries are considered for the
definition of the wall functions and of the wall distance. For example, at
the moving melting front between the solid and the liquid phase, no wall
functions are used by the k-ε and k-ω turbulence models.

See also Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow Coupling for more information.

The Nonisothermal Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow

Interfaces
When a multiphysics interface is added from the Fluid Flow>Nonisothermal Flow branch
of the Model Wizard or Add Physics windows, one of the Single-Phase Flow interfaces
(laminar or turbulent flow) and Heat Transfer are added to the Model Builder.

In addition, the Multiphysics node is added, which includes the multiphysics coupling
feature Nonisothermal Flow.

The Multiphysics Branch in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

• The Laminar Flow interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids interface with
a Laminar Flow interface.

THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW AND CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 615

 • The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids
interface with a Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids interface
with a Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids interface
with a Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids
interface with a Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, SST interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Fluids interface
with a Turbulent Flow, SST interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface.

The Conjugate Heat Transfer, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow

Interfaces
When a multiphysics interface is added from the Heat Transfer>Conjugate Heat Transfer
branch of the Model Wizard or Add Physics windows, Heat Transfer and one of the
Single-Phase Flow interfaces (laminar or turbulent flow) are added to the Model Builder.

In addition, the Multiphysics node is added, which includes the multiphysics coupling
feature Nonisothermal Flow.

The Multiphysics Branch in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

• The Laminar Flow interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer interface with a Laminar
Flow interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Solids and Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Solids and
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Solids and
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface.

616 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

• The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Solids and
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Solids
and Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, SST interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Solids and
Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, SST interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Solids and Fluids interface with a Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface.

Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling features.

However, if physics interfaces are added one at a time, followed by the coupling
features, these modified settings are not automatically included.

For example, if single Heat Transfer in Fluids and Laminar Flow interfaces are added,
COMSOL Multiphysics adds an empty Multiphysics node. When you right-click this
node, you can choose from the available coupling features — Nonisothermal Flow,
Temperature Coupling, and Flow Coupling — but the modified settings are not included.

TABLE 8-1: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW INTERFACES

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Heat Transfer in Solids Discretization order from temperature Lagrange

shape function is 1.
A Fluid feature is added with a empty default
editable selection. In the Model Input section of
this feature, the Absolute pressure, pA, and the
Velocity field, u, are automatically set to the
variables from the Nonisothermal Flow
multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat Transfer in Fluids In the Model Input section of the Fluid default
feature, the Absolute pressure, pA, and the
Velocity field, u, are automatically set to the
variables from the Nonisothermal Flow
multiphysics coupling feature.

THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW AND CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 617

 TABLE 8-1: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW INTERFACES

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Laminar Flow / Turbulent Flow In the Fluid Properties default feature, the
Density, ρ is automatically set to the variable
from the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics
coupling feature. In addition, the Use pseudo
time stepping for stationary equation form
check box is automatically selected under the
Advanced Settings section.
Nonisothermal Flow The Fluid flow and Heat transfer interfaces are
preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Coupling Features
See Nonisothermal Flow, Flow Coupling, and Temperature Coupling for a description
of the multiphysics couplings.

Use the online help in COMSOL Multiphysics to locate and search all the
documentation. All these links also work directly in COMSOL
Multiphysics when using the Help system.

Physics Interface Features

Physics nodes are available from the Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows users), Physics
context menu (Mac or Linux users), or right-click to access the context menu (all
users).

In general, to add a node, go to the Physics toolbar, no matter what

operating system you are using.

HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS (NONISOTHERMAL FLOW)

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface. Also see Fluid for details
about that feature.

618 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS AND FLUIDS (CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER)
The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface are
listed in Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids and Fluids Interface. Also see
Solid and Fluid for details about these features.

LAMINAR FLOW
The available physics features for The Laminar Flow Interface are listed in the section
Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow.

TURBULENT FLOW, ALGEBRAIC YPLUS

The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus Interface are
listed in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow.

TURBULENT FLOW, L-VEL

The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL Interface are listed in
the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, k-ε Interface are listed in the
section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , L O W R E k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε Interface are listed
in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow.

Preset Studies
The Stationary, One-Way Coupled, NITF and Time Dependent, One-Way Coupled,
NITF preset studies are available with the Nonisothermal Flow and Conjugate Heat
Transfer interfaces. They solve for the fluid flow and heat transfer variables in two
separated steps, Stationary for the former preset study, and Time Dependent for the
latter.

For a fully-coupled approach, use the Stationary, Time Dependent, Stationary with
Initialization, or Time Dependent with Initialization studies. See Studies and Solvers
in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

THE NONISOTHERMAL FLOW AND CONJUGATE HEAT TRANSFER INTERFACES | 619

 The Heat Transfer with
Surface-to-Surface Radiation
Interface
In this section:

• The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Multiphysics Interface

• Physics Interface Features
• Coupling Feature

The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation Multiphysics

Interface
When the predefined Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface ( ) is
added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model Wizard or Add Physics
windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Solids and the Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interfaces to model heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation
in transparent media.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Solids and Surface-to-Surface
Radiation interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a Multiphysics node is
added, which automatically includes the Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation
multiphysics coupling feature.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in optically thick media. A Solid model is active
by default on all domains. All functionality to include other heat transfer models, like
Fluid, is also available.

The Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface provides features to account for thermal

radiation as an energy transfer between boundaries and external heat sources where the
medium does not participate in the radiation (radiation in transparent media).

620 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING
The Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation multiphysics coupling is also
available when there is at least one of each of the following interfaces with the specified
model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with any model

• The Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-2: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION
INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Surface-to-Surface Radiation In the Model Input section of the Diffuse Surface

default feature, the Temperature, T, is
automatically set to the variable from the Heat
Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation
multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat Transfer with The Heat Transfer and Surface-to-Surface
Surface-to-Surface Radiation Radiation interfaces are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION
The available physics features for The Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface are listed
in Feature Nodes for the Surface-to-Surface Radiation Interface.

THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION INTERFACE | 621

 Coupling Feature
See Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation for details about the multiphysics
coupling feature.

622 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Participating Media Interface
In this section:

• The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media Multiphysics Interface

• Physics Interface Features
• Coupling Feature

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media

Multiphysics Interface
When the predefined Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media interface ( )
is added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model Wizard or Add
Physics windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Solids and the Radiation in
Participating Media interfaces to model heat transfer by conduction, convection, and
radiation, including in participating (semi-transparent) media.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Solids and Radiation in
Participating Media interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a
Multiphysics node is added, which automatically includes the Heat Transfer with
Radiation in Participating Media multiphysics coupling feature.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in optically thick media. A Solid model is active
by default on all domains. All functionality to include other heat transfer models, like
Fluid, is also available.

The Radiation in participating media interface provides features to account for

absorbed, emitted, and scattered radiation in a semi-transparent medium. The
radiative intensity equations defined in participating media domains are approximated
with either the Discrete Ordinates Method or the P1 Approximation. It also computes
the heating due to the propagation of rays. A Participating Medium model is active by
default on all domains, and an Opaque Surface node is active on all boundaries. In

THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA INTERFACE | 623

 addition, when Discrete ordinates method is selected, Continuity on Interior Boundary is
also added.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media multiphysics coupling is also
available when there is at least one of each of the following interfaces with the specified
model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with any model

• The Radiation in participating Media interface, with Participating Medium model

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-3: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA
INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Radiation in Participating Media In the Model Input section of the Participating

Medium default feature, the Temperature, T, is
automatically set to the variable from the Heat
Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media
multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat Transfer with Radiation in The Heat Transfer and Radiation in Participating
Participating Media Media interfaces are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA

The available physics features for The Radiation in Participating Media Interface are
listed in Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Participating Media Interface.

624 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

Coupling Feature
See Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media for details about the
multiphysics coupling feature.

THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN PARTICIPATING MEDIA INTERFACE | 625

 The Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media Interface
In this section:

• The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media Multiphysics

Interface
• Physics Interface Features
• Coupling Feature

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media

Multiphysics Interface
When the predefined Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
interface ( ) is added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model
Wizard or Add Physics windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Solids and the
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interfaces to model heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation, including in participating (semi-transparent)
media considered to be non-emitting.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Solids and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a
Multiphysics node is added, which automatically includes the Heat Transfer with
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media multiphysics coupling feature.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in optically thick media. A Solid model is active
by default on all domains. All functionality to include other heat transfer models, like
Fluid, is also available.

The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interface provides features to account

for absorbed and scattered radiation in a semi-transparent medium. Radiative emission
is not considered. The radiative intensity equations defined in participating media
domains are approximated with either the Discrete Ordinates Method or the P1

626 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

Approximation. It also computes the heating due to the propagation of rays. An
Absorbing-Scattering Medium model is active by default on all domains, and an Opaque
Surface node is active on all boundaries. In addition, when Discrete ordinates method is
selected, Continuity on Interior Boundary is also added.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media multiphysics coupling is
also available when there is at least one of each of the following interfaces with the
specified model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with any model

• The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interface, with an
Absorbing-Scattering Medium model

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-4: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING
MEDIA INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering In the Model Input section of the

Media Absorbing-Scattering Medium default feature,
the Temperature, T, is automatically set to the
variable from the Heat Transfer with Radiation
in Absorbing-Scattering Media multiphysics
coupling feature.
Heat Transfer with Radiation in The Heat Transfer and Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media Absorbing-Scattering Media interfaces are
preselected.

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA INTERFACE | 627

 RADIATION IN ABSORBING-SCATTERING MEDIA
The available physics features for The Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
Interface are listed in Feature Nodes for the Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media
Interface.

Coupling Feature
See Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media for details about the
multiphysics coupling feature.

628 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Heat Transfer with Radiative
Beam in Absorbing Media Interface
In this section:

• The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Multiphysics Interface
• Physics Interface Features
• Coupling Feature

The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media

Multiphysics Interface
When the predefined Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
interface ( ) is added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model
Wizard or Add Physics windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Solids and the
Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media interfaces to model heat transfer by conduction,
convection, and radiation in absorbing (semi-transparent) media.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Solids and Radiative Beam in
Absorbing Media interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a Multiphysics
node is added, which automatically includes the Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in
Absorbing Media multiphysics coupling feature.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation in optically thick media. A Solid model is active
by default on all domains. All functionality to include other heat transfer models, like
Fluid, is also available.

The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media interface provides features to model the
attenuation of an incident light within a semitransparent material due to absorption.
The beam intensity is determined using the Beer-Lambert Law. As the beam is
absorbed it deposits energy which acts as a heat source. An Absorbing Medium model is
active by default on all domains, and a Transparent Surface node is active on all
boundaries.

THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATIVE BEAM IN ABSORBING MEDIA INTERFACE | 629
 AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING
The Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media multiphysics coupling is also
available when there is at least one of each of the following interfaces with the specified
model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with any model

• The Radiative Beam in absorbing Media interface, with an Absorbing Medium model

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-5: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE HEAT TRANSFER WITH RADIATION IN ABSORBING MEDIA INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media In the Model Input section of the Absorbing
medium default feature, the Temperature, T, is
automatically set to the variable from the Heat
Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing
Media multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam The Heat Transfer and Radiative Beam in
in Absorbing Media Absorbing Media interfaces are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

RADIATIVE BEAM IN ABSORBING MEDIA

The available physics features for The Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
Interface are listed in Settings for the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media Interface.

Coupling Feature
See Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media for details about the
multiphysics coupling feature.

630 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Thermoelectric Effect Interface
In this section:

• About The Thermoelectric Effect Interface

• Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features
• Coupling Features

About The Thermoelectric Effect Interface

When the predefined Thermoelectric Effect interface ( ) is added (found under the
Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model Wizard or Add Physics windows), it combines
the Electric Currents and the Heat Transfer in Solids interfaces for modeling
Peltier-Seebeck-Thomson effects in domains and on boundaries. In addition, the
Electromagnetic Heating and the Thermoelectric Effect multiphysics couplings are added
automatically.

The multiphysics couplings add the thermoelectric effect, the electromagnetic power
dissipation, and the electromagnetic material properties, which can depend on the
temperature.

Depending on the product license, stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain

modeling are supported in all space dimensions. In addition, combinations of
frequency-domain modeling for the Electric Currents interface and stationary
modeling for the Heat Transfer in Solids interface, called frequency-stationary and
frequency-transient modeling, are supported.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, the Electric Currents and Heat Transfer in Solids
interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a Multiphysics node is added,
which includes the Thermoelectric Effect and Electromagnetic Heating multiphysics
coupling features. Additional features describing the thermal and electrical effects on
boundaries need to be active in each interface to account for the effect also on
boundaries.

The Electric Currents interface calculates the electric field, current, and potential
distributions in conducting media under conditions where inductive effects are
negligible; that is, when the skin depth is much larger than the studied device.
Depending on the licensed products, time and frequency domain formulations that

THE THERMOELECTRIC EFFECT INTERFACE | 631

 account for capacitive effects are also provided. The Electric Currents interface solves
a current conservation equation based on Ohm’s law using the scalar electric potential
as the dependent variable. An Electric Shielding feature may be added to compute the
thermoelectric effect also on boundaries.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation. A Solid model is active by default on all
domains. All functionality for including other domain types, like a fluid domain, is also
available. The temperature equation defined in solid domains corresponds to the
differential form of the Fourier’s law that may contain additional contributions like
heat sources. The thermoelectric effect in domains is added through a contribution to
the conductive flux. A Thin Layer feature may be added to account for the
thermoelectric effect also on boundaries.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Thermoelectric Effect multiphysics coupling is also available when there is any
version of the Heat Transfer or Heat Transfer in Shells interface and one of the
compatible AC/DC interface:

• Electric Currents and Electric Currents, Shell

• Magnetic Fields, Magnetic Field Formulation, and Magnetic and Electric Fields
• Rotating Machinery, Magnetic

Settings for Physics Interfaces and Coupling Features

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings — for example,
Thermoelectric Effect — specific settings are included with the physics interfaces and the
coupling features.

However, if physics interfaces are added one at a time, followed by the coupling
features, these modified settings are not automatically included.

For example, if single Electric Currents and Heat Transfer in Solids interfaces are added,
COMSOL Multiphysics adds an empty Multiphysics node. You can choose from the
following available coupling features: Thermoelectric Effect and Electromagnetic Heating,
but the modified settings are not included.

Coupling features are available from the context menu (right-click the
Multiphysics node) or from the Physics toolbar, Multiphysics menu.

632 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

TABLE 8-6: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR A THERMOELECTRIC EFFECT INTERFACE

PHYSICS INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS

Electric Currents No changes.

Heat Transfer in Solids No changes.
Thermoelectric Effect The Domain Selection is the same as that of the
participating physics interfaces.
The Boundary Selection is the same as the exterior
and interior boundaries of the Domain Selection of the
participating physics interfaces. But both a thermal and
an electrical model need to be active on the
boundaries for the coupling to be applicable. Add for
example a Thin Layer node under the Heat Transfer
interface and an Electric Shielding node under the
Electric Currents interface to make it applicable.
The corresponding Electric Currents and Heat
Transfer in Solids interfaces are preselected in the
Coupled Interfaces section.
Electromagnetic Heating The Domain Selection is the same as that of the
participating physics interfaces.
The Boundary Selection contains all the boundaries of
the participating interfaces.
The corresponding Electric Currents and Heat
Transfer in Solids interfaces are preselected in the
Coupled Interfaces section.

Coupling Features
See Thermoelectric Effect and Electromagnetic Heating for a description of the
multiphysics couplings.

Use the online help in COMSOL Multiphysics to locate and search all the
documentation. All these links also work directly in COMSOL
Multiphysics when using the Help system.

THE THERMOELECTRIC EFFECT INTERFACE | 633

 Physics Interface Features
Physics nodes are available from the Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows users), Physics
context menu (Mac or Linux users), or right-click to access the context menu (all
users).

In general, to add a node, go to the Physics toolbar, no matter what

operating system you are using. Subnodes are available by clicking the
parent node and selecting it from the Attributes menu.

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

ELECTRIC CURRENTS
The available physics features for The Electric Currents Interface are listed in Domain,
Boundary, Edge, Point, and Pair Nodes for the Electric Currents Interface in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

634 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

T he L o c a l T he r m al N on - E q u i l i b ri u m
Interface
In this section:

• About the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface

• Coupling Feature
• Physics Interface Features

About the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium Interface

When the predefined Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium interface ( ) is added (found
under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model Wizard or Add Physics windows), it
combines the Heat Transfer in Solids and the Heat Transfer in Fluids interfaces to
model heat transfer in porous media for which the solid and fluid temperatures are not
in equilibrium.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Solids and Heat Transfer in Fluids
interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a Multiphysics node is added,
which automatically includes the multiphysics coupling feature Local Thermal
Non-Equilibrium.

The Heat Transfer in Solids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation. A Solid model is active by default on all
domains.

The Heat Transfer in Fluids interface provides features for modeling heat transfer by
conduction, convection, and radiation. A Fluid model is active by default on all
domains.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling is also available when
there is at least one of each of the following interfaces with the default model activated:

THE LOCAL THERMAL NON-EQUILIBRIUM INTERFACE | 635

 • Heat Transfer in Solids, with Solid model
• Heat Transfer in Fluids, with Fluid model

Coupling Feature
See Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium for details about the multiphysics coupling
feature.

Physics Interface Features

Physics nodes are available from the Physics ribbon toolbar (Windows users), Physics
context menu (Mac or Linux users), or right-click to access the context menu (all
users).

In general, to add a node, go to the Physics toolbar, no matter what

operating system you are using. Subnodes are available by clicking the
parent node and selecting it from the Attributes menu.

HEAT TRANSFER IN SOLIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Solids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Solids Interface.

HEAT TRANSFER IN FLUIDS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Fluids Interface.

Heat sources
In the heat source features available for the constituent interfaces (Heat Source,
Geothermal Heating, and Bioheat), the user input corresponds to the heat production
per total unit volume. It is multiplied by the volume fraction of each phase and added
into the corresponding heat equation.

Heat fluxes
In the heat flux features available for the constituent interfaces (Heat Flux, Inflow), the
user input corresponds to the heat flux per total unit surface. It is multiplied by the
volume fraction of each phase and added into the corresponding heat equation. The
surface fraction is approximated by the volume fraction.

636 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Heat and Moisture Transport
Interfaces
In this section:

• The Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics Interfaces

• The Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics
Interface
• Physics Interface Features in the Building Materials Version
• The Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics Interface
• Physics Interface Features in the Moist Air Version
• Coupling Feature

The Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics Interfaces

The versions of the Heat and Moisture Transport multiphysics interface are:

• The Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics
Interface
• The Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport Multiphysics Interface

The Building Materials version of the Heat and Moisture Transport

Multiphysics Interface
When the Building Materials version of the predefined Heat and Moisture Transport
interface ( ) is added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model
Wizard or Add Physics windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Building Materials
and the Moisture Transport in Building Materials interfaces to model coupled heat and
moisture transport in building materials, by taking into account heat and moisture
storage, latent heat effects, and liquid and convective transport of moisture.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACES | 637

 ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES
As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Building Materials and Moisture
Transport in Building Materials interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition,
a Multiphysics node is added, which automatically includes the Heat and Moisture
multiphysics coupling feature.

The Heat Transfer in Building Materials interface provides features for modeling heat
transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation. The Building Material model, active
by default in all domains, provides in addition the functionality for moisture content
dependency of thermodynamics properties and latent heat effects.

The Moisture Transport in Building Materials interface provides features for modeling
moisture transfer by liquid transport (capillary flow) and vapor diffusion. A Building
Material model is active by default on all domains.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling is also available when there is at least one
of each of the following interfaces with the specified model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with Building Material model
• Any version of the Moisture Transport interface, with Building Material model

See Building Materials Database in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of materials containing the thermal and
hygroscopic properties to be used with the Building Materials version of
the Heat and Moisture Transport multiphysics interface.

638 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES
When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-7: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE BUILDING MATERIALS VERSION OF THE HEAT AND MOISTURE
TRANSPORT INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Heat Transfer in Building Materials In the Model Input section of the Building
Material default feature, the Relative humidity, φ,
is automatically set to the variable from the Heat
and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
Moisture Transport in Building In the Model Input section of the Building
Materials Material default feature, the Temperature, T, is
automatically set to the variable from the Heat
and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat and Moisture The Heat Transfer and Moisture Transport
interfaces are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features in the Building Materials Version

HEAT TRANSFER IN BUILDING MATERIALS

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface are
listed in Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Building Materials Interface.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN BUILDING MATERIALS

The available physics features for The Moisture Transport in Building Materials
Interface are listed in Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Building Materials
Interface.

The Moist Air version of the Heat and Moisture Transport

Multiphysics Interface
When the Moist Air version of the predefined Heat and Moisture Transport ( ) interface
is added (found under the Heat Transfer branch ( ) of the Model Wizard or Add
Physics windows), it combines the Heat Transfer in Moist Air and the Moisture
Transport in Air interfaces to model coupled heat and moisture transport in moist air,

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACES | 639

 by modeling moisture transport by vapor diffusion and convection, and heat transfer
by conduction and convection with moisture-dependent thermodynamics properties.

Stationary, time-domain, and frequency-domain modeling are supported in all space

dimensions.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

As a predefined multiphysics coupling, Heat Transfer in Moist Air and Moisture Transport
in Air interfaces are added to the Model Builder. In addition, a Multiphysics node is
added, which automatically includes the Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling
feature.

The Heat Transfer in Moist Air interface provides features for modeling heat transfer
by conduction, convection, and radiation. The Moist Air model, active by default in all
domains, provides in addition the functionality for moisture content dependency of
thermodynamics properties.

The Moisture Transport in Air interface provides features for modeling moisture
transfer by vapor convection and diffusion. A Moist Air model is active by default on all
domains.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling is also available when there is at least one
of each of the following interfaces with the specified model activated:

• Any version of the Heat Transfer interface, with Fluid or Moist Air model
• Any version of the Moisture Transport interface, with Moist Air model

640 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES
When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-8: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE MOIST AIR VERSION OF THE HEAT AND MOISTURE TRANSPORT
INTERFACE

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Heat Transfer in Moist Air In the Thermodynamics, Fluid section of the

Moist Air default feature, the Input quantity is
set to Relative humidity, and the Relative
humidity, φ , the Relative humidity, temperature
condition, T φ , and the Relative humidity,
absolute pressure condition, p φ , are
automatically set to the variables from the Heat
and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
The latent heat sources are automatically
handled on boundaries where Wet Surface or
Moist Surface features are applied.
Moisture Transport in Air In the Model Input section of the Moist Air
default feature, the Temperature, T, is
automatically set to the variable from the Heat
and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
Heat and Moisture The Heat Transfer and Moisture Transport
interfaces are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

Physics Interface Features in the Moist Air Version

HEAT TRANSFER IN MOIST AIR

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR

The available physics features for The Moisture Transport in Air Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface.

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTERFACES | 641

 Coupling Feature
See Heat and Moisture for details about the multiphysics coupling feature.

642 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Moisture Flow Interfaces
In this section:

• The Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Multiphysics Interfaces
• Physics Interface Features
• Coupling Feature
• Preset Studies

The Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Multiphysics

Interfaces
The Moisture Flow interfaces model moisture transport in air by vapor diffusion and
convection.

When a Moisture Flow ( ) multiphysics interface is added from the Chemical Species
Transport>Moisture Flow branch of the Model Wizard or Add Physics windows, one of
the Single-Phase Flow interfaces (laminar or turbulent flow) and a Moisture Transport
in air interface are added to the Model Builder.

In addition, the Multiphysics node is added, which includes the Moisture Flow
multiphysics coupling feature.

The Multiphysics Branch in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

• The Laminar Flow interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in Air interface

with a Laminar Flow interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport
in Air interface with a Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in Air
interface with a Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in Air
interface with a Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in Air
interface with a Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface.

THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 643

 • The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in
Air interface with a Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, SST interface ( ) combines a Moisture Transport in Air
interface with a Turbulent Flow, SST interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface ( ) combines a Moisture
Transport in Air interface with a Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface.

Stationary and time-domain modeling are supported in all space dimensions.

SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES

When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-9: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Moisture Transport in Air In the Model Input section of the Moist Air
default domain feature, the Absolute pressure,
pA, and the Velocity field, u, are automatically
set to the variables from the Moisture Flow
multiphysics coupling feature.
Laminar Flow / Turbulent Flow In the Fluid Properties default domain feature,
the Density, ρ, and the Dynamic viscosity, μ, are
automatically set to the variables from the
Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling feature. In
addition, the Use pseudo time stepping for
stationary equation form check box is
automatically selected under the Advanced
Settings section.
Moisture Flow The Fluid flow and Moisture Transport interfaces
are preselected

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

The Moisture Transport in Air interface provides features for modeling moisture
transfer by vapor convection and diffusion. A Moist Air model is active by default on all
domains.

644 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Laminar Flow interface solves the Navier-Stokes equations for conservation of
momentum and the continuity equation for conservation of mass. A Fluid model is
active by default on all domains.

The different versions of the Turbulent Flow interface solve the Reynolds averaged
Navier-Stokes equations for conservation of momentum and the continuity equation
for conservation of mass. A Fluid Properties model is active by default on all domains.
Turbulence effects are modeled in different ways:

• The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface uses an enhanced viscosity model
based on the local wall distance. The physics interface therefore includes a wall
distance equation.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface uses an enhanced viscosity model based on
the local wall distance. The physics interface therefore includes a wall distance
equation.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface uses the standard two-equation k-ε model with
realizability constraints. Flow close to walls is modeled using wall functions.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface uses the Wilcox revised two-equation k-ω model
with realizability constraints. Flow close to walls is modeled using wall functions.
• The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface uses the AKN two-equation k-ε model
with realizability constraints. The AKN model is a so-called low-Reynolds number
model, which means that it resolves the flow all the way down to the wall. The AKN
model depends on the distance to the closest wall. The physics interface therefore
includes a wall distance equation.

AS AN ADD-ON MULTIPHYSICS COUPLING

The Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling is also available when there is at least one of
each of the following interfaces with the specified model activated:

• A Laminar Flow or any version of the Turbulent Flow interface, with Fluid model
• Any version of the Moisture Transport interface, with Moist Air model

Coupling Feature
See Moisture Flow for details about the multiphysics coupling feature.

THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 645

 Physics Interface Features

MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR

The available physics features for The Moisture Transport in Air Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface in the CFD Module User’s
Guide.

LAMINAR FLOW
The available physics features for The Laminar Flow Interface are listed in the section
Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD Module
User’s Guide.

TURBULENT FLOW, ALGEBRAIC YPLUS

The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus Interface are
listed in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow
in the CFD Module User’s Guide.

TURBULENT FLOW, L-VEL

The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL Interface are listed in
the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the
CFD Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, k-ε Interface are listed in the
section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , k-ω
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, k-ω Interface are listed in the
section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , L O W R E k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε Interface are listed
in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the
CFD Module User’s Guide.

646 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

PRESET STUDIES
The Stationary, One-Way Coupled, MF and Time Dependent, One-Way Coupled, MF
preset studies are available with the Moisture Flow interfaces. They solve for the fluid
flow and moisture transport variables in two separated steps, Stationary for the former
preset study, and Time Dependent for the latter.

For a fully-coupled approach, use the Stationary, Time Dependent, Stationary with
Initialization, or Time Dependent with Initialization studies. See Studies and Solvers
in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for more details.

THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 647

 T he He a t a nd Moi st u re Fl ow
Interfaces
In this section:

• The Heat and Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow Multiphysics
Interfaces
• Coupling Features
• Physics Interface Features

The Heat and Moisture Flow, Laminar Flow and Turbulent Flow
Multiphysics Interfaces
The Heat and Moisture Flow interfaces model heat and moisture transport in air by
laminar or turbulent flows.

When a Heat and Moisture Flow ( ) multiphysics interface is added from the Heat
Transfer>Heat and Moisture Transport>Heat and Moisture Flow branch of the Model
Wizard or Add Physics windows, one of the Single-Phase Flow interfaces (laminar or
turbulent flow), a Heat Transfer in Moist Air interface, and a Moisture Transport in
air interface are added to the Model Builder.

In addition, the Multiphysics node is added, which includes the Moisture Flow, Heat and
Moisture, and Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling features.

The Multiphysics Branch in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

• The Laminar Flow interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air interface,
a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Laminar Flow interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Moist Air interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow,
Algebraic yPlus interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air
interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, L-VEL
interface.

648 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air
interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Realizable k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Moist Air interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow,
Realizable k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air
interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, SST interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air
interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, SST
interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist
Air interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, Low Re
k-ε interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, Spalart-Allmaras interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in
Moist Air interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow,
Spalart-Allmaras interface.
• The Turbulent Flow, v2-f interface ( ) combines a Heat Transfer in Moist Air
interface, a Moisture Transport in Air interface, and a Turbulent Flow, v2-f
interface.

Stationary and time-domain modeling are supported in all space dimensions.

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 649

 SETTINGS FOR THE PHYSICS INTERFACES AND COUPLING FEATURES
When physics interfaces are added using the predefined couplings, specific settings are
included with the physics interfaces and the coupling feature.
TABLE 8-10: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Heat Transfer in Moist Air In the Model Input section of the Moist Air
default domain feature, the Absolute pressure,
pA, and the Velocity field, u, are automatically
set to the variables from the Nonisothermal
Flow multiphysics coupling feature. The
Concentration, c, is automatically set to the
variable from the Heat and Moisture
multiphysics coupling feature.
In the Thermodynamics, Fluid section of the
Moist Air default feature, the Input quantity is
set to Relative humidity. The Relative humidity,
φ , the Relative humidity, temperature
condition, T φ , and the Relative humidity,
absolute pressure condition, p φ , are
automatically set to the variables from the Heat
and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
The latent heat sources are automatically
handled on boundaries where Wet Surface or
Moist Surface features are applied.
Moisture Transport in Air In the Model Input section of the Moist Air
default domain feature, the Absolute pressure,
pA, and the Velocity field, u, are automatically
set to the variables from the Moisture Flow
multiphysics coupling feature. The Temperature,
T, is automatically set to the variable from the
Heat and Moisture multiphysics coupling feature.
Laminar Flow / Turbulent Flow In the Fluid Properties default domain feature,
the Density, ρ, and the Dynamic viscosity, μ, are
automatically set to the variables from the
Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling feature. In
addition, the Use pseudo time stepping for
stationary equation form check box is
automatically selected under the Advanced
Settings section.
Moisture Flow The Fluid flow and Moisture Transport interfaces
are preselected.

650 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

TABLE 8-10: MODIFIED SETTINGS FOR THE MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES

PHYSICS OR COUPLING INTERFACE MODIFIED SETTINGS (IF ANY)

Heat and Moisture The Heat Transfer and Moisture Transport

interfaces are preselected.
Nonisothermal Flow The Fluid flow and Heat Transfer interfaces are
preselected.

Note that these settings may be overridden if another predefined

coupling is added.

ON THE CONSTITUENT PHYSICS INTERFACES

The Heat Transfer in Moist Air interface provides features for modeling heat transfer
by conduction, convection, and radiation. A Moist Air model is active by default on all
domains.

The Moisture Transport in Air interface provides features for modeling moisture
transport by vapor convection and diffusion. A Moist Air model is active by default on
all domains.

The Laminar Flow interface solves the Navier-Stokes equations for conservation of
momentum and the continuity equation for conservation of mass. A Fluid Properties
model is active by default on all domains.

The different versions of the Turbulent Flow interface solve the Reynolds averaged
Navier-Stokes equations for conservation of momentum, the heat transfer equation,
and the continuity equation for conservation of mass. A Fluid Properties model is active
by default on all domains. Turbulence effects are modeled in different ways:

• The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus interface uses an enhanced viscosity model
based on the local wall distance. The physics interface therefore includes a wall
distance equation.
• The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL interface uses an enhanced viscosity model based on
the local wall distance. The physics interface therefore includes a wall distance
equation.
• The Turbulent Flow, k-ε interface uses the standard two-equation k-ε model with
realizability constraints. Flow close to walls is modeled using wall functions.

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 651

 • The Turbulent Flow, k-ω interface uses the Wilcox revised two-equation k-ω model
with realizability constraints. Flow close to walls is modeled using wall functions.
• The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε interface uses the AKN two-equation k-ε model
with realizability constraints. The AKN model is a so-called low-Reynolds number
model, which means that it resolves the flow all the way down to the wall. The AKN
model depends on the distance to the closest wall. The physics interface therefore
includes a wall distance equation.

Coupling Features
See Moisture Flow, Heat and Moisture, and Nonisothermal Flow for details about the
multiphysics coupling features.

Physics Interface Features

HEAT TRANSFER IN MOIST AIR

The available physics features for The Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Heat Transfer in Moist Air Interface. Also see Moist Air (HT
Interface) for details about that feature.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT IN AIR

The available physics features for The Moisture Transport in Air Interface are listed in
Feature Nodes for the Moisture Transport in Air Interface. Also see Moist Air (MT
Interface) for details about that feature.

LAMINAR FLOW
The available physics features for The Laminar Flow Interface are listed in the section
Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD Module
User’s Guide.

TURBULENT FLOW, ALGEBRAIC YPLUS

The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Algebraic yPlus Interface are
listed in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow
in the CFD Module User’s Guide.

652 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

TURBULENT FLOW, L-VEL
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, L-VEL Interface are listed in
the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the
CFD Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, k-ε Interface are listed in the
section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , k -ω
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, k-ω Interface are listed in the
section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the CFD
Module User’s Guide.

T U R B U L E N T F L O W , L O W R E k-ε
The available physics features for The Turbulent Flow, Low Re k-ε Interface are listed
in the section Domain, Boundary, Pair, and Point Nodes for Single-Phase Flow in the
CFD Module User’s Guide.

THE HEAT AND MOISTURE FLOW INTERFACES | 653

 The Joule Heating Interface
In this section:

• The Joule Heating Interface

• Coupling Feature

The Joule Heating Interface

The Joule Heating interface ( ) is used to model resistive heating and, depending on
additional licensed products, dielectric heating in devices where inductive effects are
negligible; that is, when the skin depth is much larger than the studied device. This
multiphysics interface adds an Electric Currents interface and a Heat Transfer in Solids
interface. The multiphysics couplings add the electromagnetic power dissipation as a
heat source, and the electromagnetic material properties can depend on the
temperature.

See The Joule Heating Interface in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for
more details about this multiphysics interface.

Coupling Feature
See Electromagnetic Heating for a description of the multiphysics coupling.

654 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Laser Heating Interface
In this section:

• The Laser Heating Interface

• Coupling Feature

The Laser Heating Interface

The Laser Heating interface ( ) is used to model electromagnetic heating for systems
and devices where the electric field amplitude varies slowly on a wavelength scale. This
multiphysics interface adds an Electromagnetic Waves, Beam Envelopes interface and
a Heat Transfer in Solids interface. The multiphysics couplings add the
electromagnetic losses from the electromagnetic waves as a heat source, and the
electromagnetic material properties can depend on the temperature. The modeling
approach is based on the assumption that the electromagnetic cycle time is short
compared to the thermal time scale.

See The Laser Heating Interface in the Wave Optics Module User’s Guide for more
details about this multiphysics interface.

Coupling Feature
See Electromagnetic Heating for a description of the multiphysics coupling.

THE LASER HEATING INTERFACE | 655

 The Induction Heating Interface
In this section:

• The Induction Heating Interface

• Coupling Feature

The Induction Heating Interface

The Induction Heating interface ( ) is used to model induction heating and eddy
current heating. This multiphysics interface adds a Magnetic Fields interface and a
Heat Transfer in Solids interface. The multiphysics couplings add the electromagnetic
power dissipation as a heat source, and the electromagnetic material properties can
depend on the temperature.

See The Induction Heating Interface in the AC/DC Module User’s Guide for more
details about this multiphysics interface.

Coupling Feature
See Electromagnetic Heating for a description of the multiphysics coupling.

656 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES

The Microwave Heating Interface
In this section:

• The Microwave Heating Interface

• Coupling Feature

The Microwave Heating Interface

The Microwave Heating interface ( ) is used to model electromagnetic heating for
systems and devices that are on a scale ranging from 1/10 of a wavelength up to,
depending on available computer memory, about 10 wavelengths. This multiphysics
interface adds an Electromagnetic Waves, Frequency Domain interface and a Heat
Transfer in Solids interface. The multiphysics couplings add the electromagnetic losses
from the electromagnetic waves as a heat source, and the electromagnetic material
properties can depend on the temperature. The modeling approach is based on the
assumption that the electromagnetic cycle time is short compared to the thermal time
scale.

See The Microwave Heating Interface in the RF Module User’s Guide for more details
about this multiphysics interface.

Coupling Feature
See Electromagnetic Heating for a description of the multiphysics coupling.

THE MICROWAVE HEATING INTERFACE | 657

658 | CHAPTER 8: MULTIPHYSICS INTERFACES
 9

Multiphysics Couplings

The Heat Transfer Module has multiphysics couplings available under certain
conditions.

When a predefined multiphysics interface is added from the Model Wizard or Add
Physics windows, it adds the constituent interfaces and the Multiphysics node, which
automatically includes one or more multiphysics couplings.

If the constituent physics interfaces are added one at a time, then it adds an empty
Multiphysics node. When you right-click this node, you can choose from the
available multiphysics couplings.

The Multiphysics Branch in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual.

The default settings of the couplings depend on the way the Multiphysics node was
created.

In this chapter, the following multiphysics couplings are described:

• Domain Multiphysics Couplings

• Boundary Multiphysics Couplings

659
 See The Heat Transfer Module Interfaces for details about the Heat Transfer Module
interfaces.

See Multiphysics Interfaces for details about the predefined multiphysics interfaces of
the Heat Transfer Module.

660 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

Domain Multiphysics Couplings
The Heat Transfer Module has the following domain multiphysics couplings available:

• Electromagnetic Heating • Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium

• Flow Coupling • Moisture Flow
• Heat and Moisture • Nonisothermal Flow
• Heat Transfer with Radiation in • Temperature Coupling
Participating Media • Thermal Expansion
• Heat Transfer with Radiation in • Thermoelectric Effect
Absorbing-Scattering Media
• Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam
in Absorbing Media

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Electromagnetic Heating
Use the Electromagnetic Heating multiphysics coupling ( ) to account for
electromagnetic volumetric and surface losses in the heat equation.

See Electromagnetic Heating in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for a

description of this multiphysics coupling in the context of Joule heating and laser
heating modeling.

See Electromagnetic Heating in the AC/DC Module User’s Guide for a description
of this multiphysics coupling in the context of induction heating modeling.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 661

 See Electromagnetic Heating in the RF Module User’s Guide for a description of this
multiphysics coupling in the context of microwave heating modeling.

• Hepatic Tumor Ablation: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Medical_Technology/tumor_ablation
• Contact Switch: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Thermal_Contact_and_Friction/contact_switch

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Electromagnetic Heating

when any of the following interface is added together with Heat Transfer in Solids (or
another version of the Heat Transfer interface):
Electric Currents
Electric Currents, Shells
Magnetic Field Formulation
Magnetic Fields
Magnetic and Electric Fields
Rotating Machinery, Magnetic

Flow Coupling
The Flow Coupling multiphysics coupling ( ) defines u and p variables in order to set
the model inputs in the Heat Transfer interface (or when applicable, a chemical species
transport interface). In addition it provides all the fluids quantities that may be needed
by the Heat Transfer interface (for example, viscosity, turbulence parameters).

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is fc1.

662 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the multiphysics coupling. By default, the
applicable physics interface is selected in the Source list to apply the Destination to its
physics interface to establish the coupling.

You can also select None from either list to uncouple the node from a physics interface.
If the physics interface is removed from the Model Builder — for example, Heat Transfer
in Solids is deleted — then the Destination list defaults to None as there is nothing to
couple to.

Whenever the Destination interface is a heat transfer interface, the

Nonisothermal Flow coupling node should be preferred to Flow Coupling.
Indeed, Nonisothermal Flow brings an optimized stabilization; supports
natural convection, including Boussinesq approximation; supports
turbulent flow (wall functions, effective thermal conductivity); and
handles work due to the pressure forces and viscous dissipation.

When the Destination interface is a chemical species transport interface, a

Reacting Flow coupling node should be used instead of Flow Coupling. See
The Reacting Flow Multiphysics Interfaces in the CFD Module User’s
Guide for more details.

If a physics interface is deleted and then added to the model again, and in
order to reestablish the coupling, you need to choose the physics interface
again from the lists. This is applicable to all multiphysics coupling nodes
that would normally default to the once present physics interface. See
Multiphysics Modeling Approaches in the COMSOL Multiphysics
Reference Manual.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Flow Coupling

when any of the following interface is added together with Heat Transfer in Solids (or
another version of the Heat Transfer Interface):
Single-Phase Flow (any version)
Porous Media and Subsurface Flow, Brinkman Equations

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 663

 Heat and Moisture
Use this multiphysics coupling ( ) to model coupled heat and moisture transfer in
two kinds of media:

• In building materials, by taking into account heat and moisture storage, latent heat
effects, and liquid and convective transport of moisture. This coupling is available
when a Building Material feature of the Heat Transfer interface and a Building Material
feature of the Moisture Transport interface are active on the same domain. It can be
applied to the computation of different moisture variations phenomena in building
components, such as drying of initial construction moisture, condensation due to
migration of moisture from outside to inside in summer, and moisture accumulation
by interstitial condensation due to diffusion in the winter. The thermodynamics
properties of the building material depend both on the dry solid properties and on
the moisture content, and the evaporation of liquid water adds a latent heat source
in the diffusion equation for temperature. Reversely, the variations of moisture
content due to liquid transport (capillary flow) and vapor diffusion are temperature
dependent.
• In moist air, by modeling moisture transport by vapor diffusion and convection, and
heat transfer by conduction and convection. The thermodynamics properties of
moist air depend on the moisture content, whereas the temperature is used to define
the saturation conditions for vapor concentration. This coupling is available when a
Fluid or Moist Air feature of the Heat Transfer interface and a Moist Air feature of the
Moisture Transport interface are active on the same domain. The Fluid type should
be set to Moist air if the Fluid feature is used, to take fully advantage of the coupling.
The Heat and Moisture coupling synchronizes the features from the Heat Transfer and
Moisture Transport interfaces:

• It defines the relative humidity φ (with corresponding reference temperature and

pressure) in order to set the corresponding inputs in the Moist Air feature of the Heat
Transfer interface.
• It defines the moisture storage function w and the vapor permeability δp (or vapor
resistance factor μ) in order to set the corresponding inputs in the Building Material
feature of the Heat Transfer interface.
• It defines the temperature T in order to set the model inputs in the features of the
Moisture Transport interface.
• It computes the latent heat source due to evaporation and condensation fluxes on
surfaces, and adds it in the heat transfer equation.

664 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is ham1.

DOMAIN SELECTION
When nodes are added from the context menu, you can select Manual (the default)
from the Selection list to choose specific domains to define the domains with heat and
moisture transport, or select All domains as needed.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable and
the Moisture transport interface associated to the relative humidity variable.

You can also select None from either list to uncouple the node from a physics interface.
If the physics interface is removed from the Model Builder — for example, Heat Transfer
in Building Materials is deleted — then the Heat transfer list defaults to None as there is
nothing to couple to.

LATENT HEAT
The multiphysics coupling adds the following latent heat source qevap on surfaces due
to evaporation and condensation:

q evap = L v g evap

where gevap is the evaporative flux and Lv is the latent heat of evaporation.

To neglect the latent heat effects in the heat transfer equation, unselect the Include
latent heat source on surfaces check box.

Evaporative Cooling of Water: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/evaporative_cooling

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 665

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Heat and Moisture

when a heat transfer interface with Building Material feature is active together with a
moisture transport interface with Building Material feature; or when a heat transfer
interface with Fluid or Moist Air feature is active together with a moisture transport
interface with Moist Air feature.

Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media

Use the Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media multiphysics coupling ( )
to account for heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation in
semi-transparent (participating) media. The radiative intensity equations are
approximated either by the Discrete Ordinates Method or the P1 Approximation,
depending on the Radiation discretization method selected in the Participating Media
Settings section of the coupled Radiation in Participating Media interface.

It adds the radiative heat source term Q (SI unit: W/m3) to the heat transfer equation,
defined by:

Q = κ ( G – 4πI b ( T ) )

where

• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1).

• G is the incident radiation (SI unit: W/m2).
• Ib(T) is the blackbody radiative intensity (SI unit: W/(m2·sr)), defined as
2 4
nr σ T
I b ( T ) = --------------------
π

• nr is the refractive index (dimensionless).

• σ is the Stefan-Boltzmann constant (SI unit: W/(m2·K4)).
• T is the temperature (SI unit: K)

It also adds the radiative heat flux on boundaries, depending on the selected
discretization method. See Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) for the definition of the
radiative heat flux.

666 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is htrpm1.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Participating Media multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.
Select the Radiation in participating media interface associated to the radiative intensity
variable (with Discrete Ordinates Method) or the incident radiation variable (P1
approximation).

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Heat Transfer with Radiation in Participating Media

when a heat transfer interface with any domain feature is added together with the
Radiation in Participating Media interface with Radiation in Participating Media feature.

Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media

Use the Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media multiphysics
coupling ( ) to account for heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation in
semi-transparent (participating) media considered to be non-emitting. The radiative
intensity equations are approximated either by the Discrete Ordinates Method or the
P1 Approximation, depending on the Radiation discretization method selected in the
Participating Media Settings section of the coupled Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering
Media interface.

It adds the radiative heat source term Q (SI unit: W/m3) to the heat transfer equation,
defined by:

Q = κG

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 667

 where

• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1).

• G is the incident radiation (SI unit: W/m2).
It also adds the radiative heat flux on boundaries, depending on the selected
discretization method. See Opaque Surface (Radiation in Participating Medium and
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Medium Interfaces) for the definition of the
radiative heat flux.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is htrasm1.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the Heat Transfer with Radiation in
Absorbing-Scattering Media multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.
Select the Radiation in absorbing-scattering media interface associated to the radiative
intensity variable (with Discrete Ordinates Method) or the incident radiation variable
(P1 approximation).

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Heat Transfer with Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media

when a heat transfer interface with any domain feature is added together with the
Radiation in Absorbing-Scattering Media interface with Absorbing-Scattering Medium
feature.

668 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media
Use the Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media multiphysics
coupling ( ) to model heat transfer by conduction, convection, and radiation in
absorbing (semi-transparent) media. The attenuation of an incident beam intensity
within a semitransparent material due to absorption is determined using the
Beer-Lambert Law. As the beam is absorbed it deposits energy which acts as a heat
source.

It adds the radiative heat source term Q (SI unit: W/m3) to the heat transfer equation,
defined by:

Q =
 κIi
i

where

• κ is the absorption coefficient (SI unit: m–1).

• Ii is the ith beam intensity (SI unit: W/m2), solution of the Beer-Lambert equation.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is htrbam1.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in
Absorbing Media multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer in solids interface associated to the temperature dependent
variable. Select the Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media interface associated to the
radiative beam intensity variable.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 669

 LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Heat Transfer with Radiative Beam in Absorbing Media

when a heat transfer interface with any domain feature is added together with the
Radiation in Absorbing Media interface with Absorbing Medium feature.

Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium

Use the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium multiphysics coupling ( ) to account for heat
transfer in porous domains where the solid and fluid temperatures are not in
equilibrium. This is achieved by coupling the heat equations in the solid and fluid
subdomains through a transfer term proportional to the temperature difference
between the fluid and the solid. The corresponding heat equations in the solid and in
the fluid subdomains read

∂T s
θ p ρ s C p, s + θ p ρ s C p, s u s ⋅ ∇T s = ∇ ⋅ ( θ p k s ∇T s ) + q sf ( T f – T s )
∂t

∂T f
( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f + ( 1 – θ p )ρ f C p, f u f ⋅ ∇T f = ∇ ⋅ ( ( 1 – θ p )k f ∇T f ) + q sf ( T s – T f )
∂t

with the following material properties:

• θp is the solid volume fraction.

• ρs and ρf are the solid and fluid densities.
• Cp, s and Cp, f are the solid and fluid heat capacities at constant pressure.
• ks and kf are the solid and fluid thermal conductivities.
• qsf is the interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient.
• us and uf are the solid and fluid velocity vectors.
The fluid velocity is deduced from a porous velocity up, coming, for example, from the
Darcy’s law or the Brinkman equations, according to:

up
u f = ---------------
1 – θp

See also Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium in Theory for Heat Transfer in

Porous Media.

670 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is ltne1.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium
multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer in solids interface associated to the solid temperature
dependent variable. Select the Heat transfer in fluids interface associated to the fluid
temperature-dependent variable.

LOCAL THERMAL NON-EQUILIBRIUM SETTINGS

Enter a Solid volume fraction θp (dimensionless). The default value is 0.5.

Select an Interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient: Spherical pellet bed, General
configuration, or User defined (the default).

Spherical Pellet Bed

In this particular configuration, the interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient can
be directly expressed as a function of the average pellet radius rp and the fluid-to-solid
Nusselt number for which the fluid dynamic viscosity μ is needed.

Enter a value for the Average pellet radius rp (SI unit: m). Default value is 5e-4 m.

The default Dynamic viscosity μ (SI unit: Pa·s) is used From material. In the list, choose
User defined to enter another value or expression. When the dynamic viscosity is set in
the Heat Transfer in Fluids interface, it also appears in the list.

The Heat Transfer in Fluids interface defines the dynamic viscosity if

either Moist air is selected as Fluid type in the Thermodynamics, Fluid
section, or the Equivalent conductivity for convection check box is selected
in the Equivalent Conductivity for Convection section.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 671

 General Configuration
The interstitial convective heat transfer coefficient is expressed as the product of the
specific surface area asf and the interstitial heat transfer coefficient hsf.

Enter a value for the Specific surface area asf (SI unit: 1/m).

Enter a value for the Interstitial heat transfer coefficient hsf (SI unit: W/(m2·K)).

User Defined
Enter a custom value for qsf (SI unit: W/(m3·K)).

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Local Thermal Non-Equilibrium

when the Heat Transfer in Solids interface with Solid feature is added together with the
Heat Transfer in Fluids interface with Heat Transfer in Fluids feature.

Moisture Flow
Use the Moisture Flow multiphysics coupling ( ) to simulate fluid flows where the
fluid properties (density, viscosity) depend on moisture content. Models can also
include moisture transport in building materials. The physics interface supports low
Mach numbers (typically less than 0.3).

The Moisture Flow interface solves for conservation of vapor concentration, mass and
momentum in air. It synchronizes the features from the Moisture Transport and Fluid
Flow interfaces when a turbulent flow regime is defined. It also complements the Screen
and Interior Fan feature from the flow interface to account for moisture effects.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is mf1.

672 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

DOMAIN SELECTION
When nodes are added from the context menu, you can select Manual (the default)
from the Selection list to choose specific domains to define the moisture flow, or select
All domains as needed.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the multiphysics coupling. The Fluid flow
and Moisture Transport lists include all applicable physics interfaces.

The default values depend on how this coupling node is created.

• If it is added from the Physics ribbon (Windows users), Physics contextual toolbar
(Mac and Linux users), or context menu (all users), then the first physics interface
of each type in the component is selected as the default.
• If it is added automatically when a multiphysics interface is chosen in the Model
Wizard or Add Physics window, then the two participating physics interfaces are
selected.

You can also select None from either list to uncouple the node from a physics interface.
If the physics interface is removed from the Model Builder — for example, Moisture
Transport in Air is deleted — then the Moisture Transport list defaults to None as there
is nothing to couple to.

MOISTURE TRANSPORT TURBULENCE MODEL

This section is available when the flow interface uses a turbulence model. In this case,
the diffusive moisture flux is defined as

g = – M v ( D + D T ) ∇c v

to account for the turbulent mixing caused by the eddy diffusivity in moisture
convection, with the turbulent diffusivity defined as

νT
D T = ----------
Sc T

where νT is defined by the flow interface, and the turbulent Schmidt number ScT
depends on the Moisture transport turbulence model.

Select an option from the Moisture transport turbulence model list: Kays-Crawford (the
default) or User-defined turbulent Schmidt number.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 673

 For User-defined turbulent Schmidt number, enter a Turbulent Schmidt number ScT
(dimensionless). The turbulent kinematic viscosityνT is taken directly from the fluid
flow interface.

For Kays-Crawford, see Kays-Crawford Model for Turbulent Diffusivity for details
about the definition of ScT.

The Turbulence model type used by the fluid flow interface can be displayed by selecting
the Show or Hide Physics Property Settings button at the right of the Fluid flow list.

When an interface is selected from the Moisture Transport list, some of its
model inputs are forced with values from the Moisture Flow node. In
addition, it defines how the turbulence has to be accounted for,
depending on the Fluid flow interface’s turbulence settings. Therefore,
each moisture transport or fluid flow interface should be used in at most
one Moisture Flow node. In cases where multiple fluid flow interfaces are
used, an equal number of moisture transport interfaces and Moisture Flow
nodes are needed to define proper multiphysics couplings.

If a physics interface is deleted and then added to the model again, then
in order to reestablish the coupling, you need to choose the physics
interface again from the Fluid flow or Moisture Transport lists. This
behavior is applicable to all multiphysics coupling nodes that would
normally default to the once present interface. See Multiphysics
Modeling Approaches in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Evaporative Cooling of Water: Application Library path

Heat_Transfer_Module/Phase_Change/evaporative_cooling

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Moisture Flow

when any version of the Single-Phase Flow interface is added together with the Moisture
Transport in Air interface.

674 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

Nonisothermal Flow
Use the Nonisothermal Flow multiphysics coupling ( ) to simulate fluid flows where
the fluid properties depend on temperature. Models can also include heat transfer in
solids or in porous media as well as surface-to-surface radiation and radiation in
participating media, with the Heat Transfer Module. The physics interface supports
low Mach numbers (typically less than 0.3).

The Nonisothermal Flow, Laminar Flow interface solves for conservation of energy,
mass and momentum in fluids and porous media and for conservation of energy in
solids. It synchronizes the features from the Heat Transfer and Fluid Flow interfaces
when a turbulent flow regime is defined. It also complements the Screen and Interior
Fan feature from the flow interface to account for thermal effects.

When the Nonisothermal Flow is used, there is no need to add a Flow

Coupling or Temperature Coupling. Indeed, Nonisothermal Flow combines
the effects of both of them. In addition, it also accounts for the
multiphysics stabilization terms, for the heat transfer changes in the
turbulent regime (for example, thermal wall functions), for work due to
pressure forces and viscous dissipation, and for natural convection,
including a Boussinesq approximation.

The multiphysics stabilizations (streamline diffusion and crosswind

diffusion) are controlled by the Fluid Flow interface. For example, the
multiphysics streamline diffusion can be disabled in a Laminar Flow physics
node, in the Stabilization section. The stabilization selected in the Heat
Transfer physics interface has no effect if the multiphysics coupling
stabilization is active but remains active if not. However, the isotropic
diffusion is not a multiphysics stabilization and is controlled by each
physics interface.

Finally, when one of the physics interfaces or the multiphysics coupling is

not solved in a study step, then the stabilization of each solved physics is
used instead of the coupled stabilization, and the solver suggestions are
uncoupled.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 675

 The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is nitf1.

DOMAIN SELECTION
When nodes are added from the context menu, you can select Manual (the default)
from the Selection list to choose specific domains to define the nonisothermal flow, or
select All domains as needed.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the multiphysics coupling. The Fluid flow
and Heat transfer lists include all applicable physics interfaces.

The default values depend on how this coupling node is created.

• If it is added from the Physics ribbon (Windows users), Physics contextual toolbar
(Mac and Linux users), or context menu (all users), then the first physics interface
of each type in the component is selected as the default.
• If it is added automatically when a multiphysics interface is chosen in the Model
Wizard or Add Physics window, then the two participating physics interfaces are
selected.

You can also select None from either list to uncouple the node from a physics interface.
If the physics interface is removed from the Model Builder — for example, Heat Transfer
in Fluids is deleted — then the Heat transfer list defaults to None as there is nothing to
couple to.

HEAT TRANSFER TURBULENCE MODEL

This section is available when the fluid flow interface uses a turbulence model. Select
an option from the Heat transport turbulence model list: Kays-Crawford (the default),
Extended Kays-Crawford, or User-defined turbulent Prandtl number.

For Extended Kays-Crawford, enter a Reynolds number at infinity Reinf (dimensionless).

For User-defined turbulent Prandtl number, enter a Turbulent Prandtl number prT
(dimensionless).

676 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

When the flow interface uses a RANS turbulence model, the conductive heat flux is
defined as

q = – ( k + k T ) ∇T

with the turbulent thermal conductivity defined as

μT Cp
k T = --------------
Pr T

where μT is defined by the flow interface, and PrT depends on the Heat transport
turbulence model. See Turbulent Conductivity for details.

The Turbulence model type used by the fluid flow interface can be displayed by selecting
the Show or Hide Physics Property Settings button at the right of the Fluid flow list.

MATERIAL PROPERTIES
When the Compressibility setting in the fluid flow interface is set to Incompressible,
select the Boussinesq approximation check box in order to use material data evaluated
at the reference temperature and reference pressure. If gravity is included in the
physics, it is linearized with respect to temperature.

Select an option from the Specify density list: From heat transfer interface (the default),
From fluid flow interface, Custom, linearized density, or Custom.

For Custom, linearized density, enter the Reference density ρref (SI unit: kg/m3) and the
Coefficient of thermal expansion αp(SI unit:1/K), or select From material, or select a
variable in the list if available. When Custom, linearized density is selected, regardless
how the properties are defined they should be constant. If material properties are not
constant you should consider using any of the other options to define the density.

For Custom, enter a Density ρ (SI unit: kg/m3), or select a density in the list if available.

The density definition in the Nonisothermal Flow node ensure that the same definition
of the density is used on the fluid flow and heat transfer interfaces. When the fluid flow
compressibility setting is set to Incompressible then the thermal conductivity and the
heat capacity are evaluated at the Reference temperature defined in the fluid flow
interface. When Include gravity is selected and the Compressibility is set to
Incompressible flow in the fluid interface properties, the gravity forces are defined using
the coefficient of thermal expansion. Along with the fact that the material properties
are evaluated for a constant temperature and pressure, this gravity force definition
corresponds to Boussinesq approximation. Unless the density is defined as Custom,

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 677

 linearized density the coefficient of thermal expansion is evaluated from the fluid
density.

FLOW HEATING
When the Compressibility setting in the fluid flow interface is set to Weakly compressible
flow or Compressible flow (Ma<0.3), select the Include work done by pressure changes
check box to account for the heat source due to pressure changes:

∂p
Q p = α p  ------ + u ⋅ ∇p
 ∂t 

By default this option is not selected; however, it should be selected for compressible
fluids as soon as significant pressure gradients occur.

Select the Include viscous dissipation check box to account for the heat source
corresponding to viscous heating. This option is not selected by default. Because it may
induce an extra computational cost it should be only selected in application where such
effect is expected. If no information on this is available, selecting the option ensures
that the energy balance for the heat and the flow equation is respected.

When an interface is selected from the Heat transfer list, some of its model
inputs are forced with values from the Nonisothermal Flow node. In
addition, it defines how the turbulence has to be accounted for,
depending on the Fluid flow interface’s turbulence settings. Therefore,
each heat transfer or fluid flow interface should be used in at most one
Nonisothermal Flow node. In cases where multiple fluid flow interfaces are
used, an equal number of heat transfer interfaces and Nonisothermal Flow
nodes are needed to define proper multiphysics couplings.

If a physics interface is deleted and then added to the model again, then
in order to reestablish the coupling, you need to choose the physics
interface again from the Fluid flow or Heat transfer lists. This behavior is
applicable to all multiphysics coupling nodes that would normally default
to the once present interface. See Multiphysics Modeling Approaches in
the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

678 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

 Heat Sink: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/
Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/heat_sink

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Nonisothermal Flow

when any of the following interface is added together with Heat Transfer in Solids (or
another version of the Heat Transfer Interface):
Single-Phase Flow (any version)
Porous Media and Subsurface Flow, Brinkman Equations

Temperature Coupling
Use the Thermal Coupling multiphysics coupling ( ) to add the temperature as the
default model input for a standalone physics interface.

COUPLED INTERFACES

The Temperature Coupling feature is generic and specifies a Heat Transfer interface as
Source and a second interface as Destination. When Temperature Coupling feature is
used, the temperature from the Source is used to evaluate material properties in any
feature from the Destination interface. The coupling can be added wherever the Heat
Transfer interface is active.

The Source interface can be any interface defining a temperature, which includes all
versions of heat transfer and multiphysics, except the pure radiation interfaces.

The Destination interface can be any interface providing multiphysics feature in the
Multiphysics node — for example, Electric Current or Solid Mechanics.

See Temperature Coupling in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for

more details about this multiphysics coupling.

Thermal Expansion
Use the Thermal Expansion multiphysics coupling ( ) to add an internal thermal
strain caused by changes in temperature and account for the corresponding mechanical
losses in the heat balance.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 679

 See Thermal Expansion (Multiphysics Coupling) in the Structural Mechanics Module
User’s Guide for more details about this multiphysics coupling.

Heating Circuit: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Power_Electronics_and_Electronic_Cooling/heating_circuit

Thermoelectric Effect
Use the Thermoelectric Effect multiphysics coupling ( ) to account for a Peltier heat
source or sink in domains and on boundaries where electrical and thermal models are
defined.

In domains, a PJ contribution is added to the heat flux q in the equation for heat
transfer in solids:

∂T
ρC p +∇⋅q = Q
∂t

The term Je=−σS∇T is also added to the current density, which is then defined as:

J = – σ ( ∇V + S∇T )

The contribution to the heat flux affects all boundary conditions where
the conductive flux, −k∇T, is involved. In particular the thermal
insulation condition becomes (−k∇T + PJ) ⋅ n = 0 (instead of
(−k∇T) ⋅ n = 0 when thermoelectric effect is not active). See

On boundaries, a PsJ contribution is added to the heat flux q in the equation for heat
transfer in shells:

∂T
ρC p + ∇t ⋅ q = Q
∂t

The term Je,s=−σsSs∇tT is also added to the current density, which is then defined as:

J = –σs ( ∇t V + Ss ∇t T )

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

680 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is tee.

DOMAIN SELECTION
From the Selection list, choose the domains where thermoelectric effect should be
applied. Only domains where both electrical and thermal models are active can be
selected.

BOUNDARY SELECTION
From the Selection list, choose the boundaries where thermoelectric effect should be
applied. Only boundaries where both electrical and thermal models are active can be
selected.

For the thermal model, you can choose from

• any version of the Heat Transfer interface with a Thin Layer, a Thin Film, or a Fracture
feature active on the boundaries.
• any version of the Heat Transfer in Shells interface.

For the electrical model, you can choose from

• any version of the Electric Currents interface with an Electric Shielding feature active
on the boundaries.
• any version of the Electric Currents, Shells interface.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the thermoelectric effect multiphysics
coupling.

Select the Heat Transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.
Select the Electromagnetic interface associated to the electric potential dependent
variable.

DOMAIN MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 681

 THERMOELECTRIC PROPERTIES
The Seebeck coefficients S and Ss (SI unit: V/K) in the domain and on the boundaries
should be set.[

Thermoelectric Leg: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Verification_Examples/thermoelectric_leg

Theory for the Thermoelectric Effect Interface

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Thermoelectric Effect

when any of the following interface is added together with Heat Transfer in Solids (or
another version of the Heat Transfer Interface):
Electric Currents
Magnetic Field Formulation
Magnetic Fields
Magnetic and Electric Fields
Rotating Machinery, Magnetic

682 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

Boundary Multiphysics Couplings
The Heat Transfer Module has the following boundary multiphysics coupling
available:

• Electromagnetic Heating, Layered • Thermal Expansion, Layered Shell

Shell • Thermoelectric Effect, Layered Shell
• Heat Transfer with
Surface-to-Surface Radiation
• Marangoni Effect

For a detailed overview of the functionality available in each product, visit

http://www.comsol.com/products/specifications/

Electromagnetic Heating, Layered Shell

Use the Electromagnetic Heating, Layered Shell multiphysics coupling ( ) to account
for electromagnetic surface losses as a heat source in the heat equation, in layered
materials represented by boundaries.

BOUNDARY SELECTION
Choose specific boundaries on which to define the electromagnetic heat source, from
the list of boundaries on which layered materials are defined.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the electromagnetic heating multiphysics
coupling.

Select the Electromagnetic interface associated to the electric potential dependent

variable.

Select the Heat Transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

BOUNDARY MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 683

 If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack (the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.

• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

See Electromagnetic Heating in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference

Manual for a description of the corresponding multiphysics coupling in
domains, in the context of Joule heating and laser heating modeling.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Electromagnetic Heating, Layered Shell

when any version of the Heat Transfer interface with the Thin Layer, Thin Film, or
Fracture node, or any version of the Heat Transfer in Shells interface with the Solid,

684 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

Fluid, Porous Medium node, is added together with the Electric Currents, Layered Shell
interface.

Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation

Use the Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation multiphysics coupling ( ) to
account for heat transfer by radiation on boundaries, when the surrounding medium
does not participate in the radiation (transparent medium).

The radiosity equation defined on boundaries where surface-to-surface radiation is

enabled corresponds to the radiosity method equation.

The following radiative heat source is added to the heat transfer equation on
boundaries:

q = ε ( G – eb ( T ) )

on the side of the boundary where the radiation is defined, where ε is the surface
emissivity, G is the irradiation, and eb(T) is the blackbody hemispherical total emissive
power. Where the radiation is defined on both sides, the radiative heat source is defined
on both sides too.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is htrad1.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface
Radiation multiphysics coupling.

Select the Heat transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.
Select the Surface-to-surface radiation interface associated to the radiosity variable.

BOUNDARY MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 685

 HEAT TRANSFER WITH SURFACE-TO-SURFACE RADIATION
Set the default opacities of the domains surrounding the boundaries where radiation is
modeled.

If Default domain opacities is From heat transfer interface, the opacity depends on the
domain feature:

• The Solid, Porous Medium, Biological Tissue, Building Material, and Shape Memory Alloy
nodes define opaque domains.
• The Fluid and Isothermal Domain nodes define transparent domains.

Note that when a Heat Transfer in Shells interface is selected under Heat transfer in the
Coupled Interfaces section, no domain node is available. Therefore, the default opacity
set in the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface is used: all surrounding domains are
considered as transparent.

If Default domain opacities is Transparent, all domains are considered transparent by

default.

With either option the default opacity may be overriden on each domain
with the Opacity (Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface) boundary
node.

The opacity setting is used when the Radiation direction is defined by

Opacity controlled in surface-to-surface boundary features (Diffuse Mirror
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Diffuse Surface
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), Prescribed Radiosity
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface), and Opaque Surface
(Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface)): surface-to-surface radiation
propagates in non-opaque domains. Alternatively the Radiation direction
can be defined using the normal orientation or on both sides of
boundaries. In this case this setting is ignored. Note that on boundaries
where the Semi-Transparent Surface (Surface-to-Surface Radiation
interface) is applied, the Radiation direction is Both sides, and this setting
is always ignored.

686 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Heat Transfer with Surface-to-Surface Radiation

when a heat transfer interface or a Heat Transfer in Shells interface is added together
with the Surface-to-Surface Radiation interface.

Marangoni Effect
The Marangoni Effect multiphysics coupling ( ) accounts for Marangoni convection.
Marangoni convection occurs when the surface tension of an interface (generally
liquid-air) depends on the concentration of a species or on the temperature
distribution. In the case of temperature dependence, the Marangoni effect is also called
thermo-capillary convection. It is of primary importance in the fields of welding,
crystal growth, and electron beam melting of metals.

The Marangoni effect is a shear stress which depends on the tangential temperature
gradient and should be implemented as such. It has the following contribution
described by forces induced on the fluid/fluid interface:

T 2
– pI + μ ( ∇u + ( ∇u ) ) – --- μ ( ∇ ⋅ u )I n = γ∇ t T
3

where γ is the temperature derivative of the surface tension σ (N/(m·K)). Note that
this formulation is intended for laminar flow regimes only.

SETTINGS
The Label is the default multiphysics coupling feature name.

The Name is used primarily as a scope prefix for variables defined by the coupling node.
Refer to such variables in expressions using the pattern <name>.<variable_name>. In
order to distinguish between variables belonging to different coupling nodes or physics
interfaces, the name string must be unique. Only letters, numbers, and underscores (_)
are permitted in the Name field. The first character must be a letter.

The default Name (for the first multiphysics coupling feature in the model) is me1.

BOUNDARY MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 687

 SURFACE TENSION
Select a Surface tension coefficient type: Library coefficient, liquid/gas interface, or User
defined (the default).

• For Library coefficient, liquid/gas interface choose an option from the Library surface
tension coefficient list.
• For User defined enter a Surface tension coefficient σ (SI unit: N/m).

MARANGONI EFFECT
This section defines the physics involved in the multiphysics coupling. The Fluid flow
and Heat transfer lists include all applicable physics interfaces.

The default values depend on how this coupling node is created.

• If it is added from the Physics ribbon (Windows users), Physics contextual toolbar
(Mac and Linux users), or context menu (all users), then the first physics interface
of each type in the component is selected as the default.
• If it is added automatically when a multiphysics interface is chosen in the Model
Wizard or Add Physics window, then the two participating physics interfaces are
selected.

You can also select None from either list to uncouple the node from a physics interface.
If the physics interface is removed from the Model Builder — for example, Heat Transfer
in Fluids is deleted — then the Heat transfer list defaults to None as there is nothing to
couple to.

If a physics interface is deleted and then added to the model again, then
in order to reestablish the coupling, you need to choose the physics
interface again from the Fluid flow or Heat transfer lists. This is applicable
to all multiphysics coupling nodes that would normally default to the
once present interface. See Multiphysics Modeling Approaches in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual.

Marangoni Effect: Application Library path Heat_Transfer_Module/

Tutorials,_Forced_and_Natural_Convection/marangoni_effect

688 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Marangoni Effect

when any of the following interface is added together with Heat Transfer in Solids (or
another version of the Heat Transfer Interface):
Single-Phase Flow (any version)
Porous Media and Subsurface Flow, Brinkman Equations

Thermal Expansion, Layered Shell

Use the Thermal Expansion, Layered Shell multiphysics coupling ( ) to add an internal
thermal strain caused by changes in temperature and account for the corresponding
mechanical losses in the heat balance in layered materials represented by boundaries.

See Thermal Expansion, Layered Shell (Multiphysics Coupling) in the Structural

Mechanics Module User’s Guide for more details about this multiphysics coupling.

Thermoelectric Effect, Layered Shell

Use the Thermoelectric Effect, Layered Shell multiphysics coupling ( ) to account for
a Peltier heat source or sink in layered materials represented by boundaries where
electrical and thermal models are defined.

In the equation for heat transfer in shells, a qs=PsJ contribution is added to the heat
flux q:

∂T
ρC p + ∇t ⋅ q = Q
∂t

The term Je,s=−σsSs∇tT is also added to the current density, which is then defined as:

J = –σs ( ∇t V + Ss ∇t T )

BOUNDARY SELECTION
Choose specific boundaries where to apply the thermoelectric effect, from the list of
boundaries on which layered materials are defined.

COUPLED INTERFACES
This section defines the physics involved in the electromagnetic heating multiphysics
coupling.

BOUNDARY MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 689

 Select the Electromagnetic interface associated to the electric potential dependent
variable.

Select the Heat Transfer interface associated to the temperature dependent variable.

LAYER SELECTION
Select the applicable layers (the default setting is All layered materials) defining the
required material properties for the node.

If no layered materials have been included yet, there is a shorthand available for
creating a Single Layer Material, a Layered Material Link, or a Layered Material Stack(the
plus, next to the Layered Material list).

When a layered material stack or link is selected from the Layered Material list, unselect
the check boxes corresponding to layers where the node should not be applied in the
Selection table.

You can visualize the selected layered materials and layers in each layered material by
clicking the Layer cross section preview and Layer 3D preview buttons.

• See The Layer Selection and Interface Selection Sections.

• You can provide material parameters with a through-thickness variation
by explicitly or implicitly using expressions containing the extra
dimension coordinate as described in Using the Extra Dimension
Coordinates.

The desired selection for the node may correspond to boundaries with
different layered materials. The All layered materials option allows to
gather these materials to make the desired selection applicable for the
node on the union of the boundaries where the layered materials are
defined.

See Layered Material, Layered Material Link, Layered Material Stack,

Layered Material Link (Subnode), and Single Layer Material in the
COMSOL Multiphysics Reference Manual for details on the definition
of layered materials.

690 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS

 See Electromagnetic Heating in the COMSOL Multiphysics Reference
Manual for a description of the corresponding multiphysics coupling in
domains, in the context of Joule heating and laser heating modeling.

THERMOELECTRIC PROPERTIES
The Seebeck coefficient Ss (SI unit: V/K) on the boundaries should be set.

LOCATION IN USER INTERFACE

Context menus
Multiphysics>Thermoelectric Effect, Layered Shell

when any version of the Heat Transfer interface with the Thin Layer, Thin Film, or
Fracture node, or any version of the Heat Transfer in Shells interface with the Solid,
Fluid, Porous Medium node, is added together with the Electric Currents, Layered Shell
interface.

BOUNDARY MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS | 691

692 | CHAPTER 9: MULTIPHYSICS COUPLINGS
I n d e x
A absolute pressure 50, 176, 403, 421, 425, insulation/continuity (heat transfer in
440, 449, 482, 488, 537–538, 606 thin shells interface) 572
absorbing medium 88 isothermal domain 419
absorbing medium (node) 385 isothermal domain interface 504
absorbing-scattering medium 88 marangoni effect 688
absorbing-scattering medium (node) 386 moist air 422
acceleration of gravity 46, 272 moisture flow 674
activation energy 45, 166, 415, 455 nonisothermal flow 679
apparent heat capacity 174 opaque 424
Application Libraries window 36 opaque surface 511
application library examples open boundary 512
ambient settings 129 optically thick participating medium
bioheat 391 426
bioheat transfer interface 342 outflow 513
biological tissue 394, 457 out-of-plane heat flux 427
boundary heat source 468 out-of-plane radiation 429
boundary thermoelectric effect 682 periodic condition 514
consistent stabilization 92 phase change material 438
continuity 469 point heat source 579
continuity on interior boundary 471 porous medium 446
convectively enhanced conductivity radiation in participating media 365
400 radiation in participating media (rpm
diffuse surface 479 interface) 434
electromagnetic heating 662 solid 453
external radiation source 588 symmetry 527
fluid 406 temperature (heat transfer in thin
heat and moisture 665 shells interface) 574
heat flux 488 temperature (heat transfer interface)
heat flux (heat transfer in thin shells in- 529
terface) 559 thermal contact 259, 534
heat source 410 thermal expansion 680
heat transfer in porous media 333 thin layer 543
heat transfer in thin shells 348 translational motion 462
highly conductive layers 196 arterial blood temperature 52, 391
initial values (heat transfer in thin average gas particle diameter 45
shells interface) 499 average particle diameter 45, 169

INDEX| 693
 axisymmetric geometries 219, 360, 520 conduction, definition 155
azimuth 57, 218 conductive heat flux variable 66
azimuthal sectors 219 conductive heat flux vector 82
conjugate heat transfer (multiphysics in-
B beam orientation 45, 471, 496, 546
terface) 616
bioheat (node) 88, 390
conjugate heat transfer (settings) 331
bioheat transfer interface 308, 341
consistent stabilization (settings) 318,
theory 164
320, 378, 381
biological tissue (node) 88, 341, 392
consistent stabilization method 92
black walls 511
constraints, Galerkin 529
blackbody radiation 516–517
continuity (moisture transport interface)
blackbody radiation intensity 47, 221,
601
430, 666
continuity (node) 469–470
boundary conditions
heat transfer in shells 567
heat equation, and 82
continuity on interior boundary (node)
heat transfer coefficients, and 270
365, 370, 470
boundary flux variables (heat transfer in-
convection, definition 156
terface) 68
convection, natural and forced 271
boundary heat source (node) 466
convective heat flux variable 69
boundary heat source variable 72
convective heat flux variable, cflux 67
boundary interface nodes 545
convectively enhanced conductivity
boundary multiphysics nodes 611, 683
(node) 399
boundary nodes 464, 601
Cooper-Mikic-Yovanovich (CMY) corre-
Boussinesq approximation 239
lation 256, 532
Brinell hardness 47, 257
cross sectional area 44, 317, 377, 380
building material (moisture transport in-
cross sectional perimeter 50, 317, 377,
terface) 377
380
building material (node) 88
cross-section (node) 88, 401
heat transfer interface 338, 340, 394,
crosswind diffusion
666
definition 92
moisture transport interface 594, 666
heat transfer, and 92
bulk velocity 272
crosswind diffusion, consistent stabiliza-
C change thickness (node) 88
tion method 92
characteristic length 272
D Dalton’s law 260
Charron’s relation 258, 533
damage integral analysis discretization
coefficient of thermal expansion 54, 153,
(settings) 341
273, 447
Darcy number 45, 169
common settings 29
density, blood 56, 391
concentration 44, 261, 403, 421, 440

694 | I N D E X
 dependent variables (settings) 319, 321 (multiphysics coupling) 683
deposited beam power (node) 90, 471 elevation 218
diffuse gray radiation model 359 emailing COMSOL 36
diffuse mirror (node) 473 emission, radiation and 221
diffuse spectral radiation model 359 energy rates 294
diffuse surface (node) 474 evaluating view factors 216
diffuse-gray surfaces 208, 210 external radiation source (node) 583
diffuse-spectral surface 213 External temperature 90
Dirac pulse 175 external temperature (node) 479
direct area integration, axisymmetric ge-
F Favre average 238
ometry and 219
film thickness 198
discontinuous Galerkin constraints 529
flow coupling (multiphysics coupling) 95,
discrete ordinates method (DOM) 224,
618, 662
365, 370, 388, 431
fluid
discretization (settings) 318, 320, 322,
htlsh interface 536
327, 341, 347–348, 351, 355, 375, 378,
fluid (node) 88, 402, 666
381
Fourier’s law 404, 441, 443, 452
dispersion tensor 45, 458
fracture (node) 480
dispersivities, porous media 55, 458
frames, conversions between 296
domain flux variables 66
frames, moving 86
domain heat source variables 71
frequency factor 44, 166, 415, 455
domain multiphysics nodes 611, 661
G Galerkin constraints, heat transfer 529
domain nodes 384, 594
gap conductance 47, 257, 530
dry solid density 178, 397
geothermal heating (node) 88, 406
dry solid specific heat capacity 178, 397
global nodes 583
dry solid thermal conductivity 178, 396
Grashof number 46, 272
E edge nodes 557
gravity 46, 272
effective thermal conductivity 48, 170,
gray walls 510
178, 253, 395, 439, 444, 457
graybody radiation 212, 516–517
effective volumetric heat capacity 54,
gray-diffuse parallel plate model 258
170, 178, 252, 444, 453
guidelines, solving surface-to-surface ra-
electric currents interface 634
diation problems 109
electromagnetic heat source 50
H harmonic perturbation (node)
electromagnetic heat source (multiphys-
heat transfer interface 484
ics coupling) 655
heat and moisture (multiphysics cou-
electromagnetic heating (multiphysics
pling) 642, 652, 664
coupling) 633, 654, 656–657, 661
heat and moisture flow (multiphysics in-
Electromagnetic heating, layered shell

INDEX| 695
 terface) 648 331, 624, 628, 630, 636, 639, 641
heat and moisture transport (multiphys- theory 162
ics interface) 338, 340, 637, 639 heat transfer in fractures interface 309,
heat balance 156 354
heat capacity at constant pressure 44, heat transfer in porous media (settings)
153 317, 320, 332
heat flux (node) heat transfer in porous media interface
fracture subnode 560 308, 332, 338, 340
heat transfer in shells interface 557 theory 169
heat transfer interface 485 heat transfer in shells interface 309, 346
thin film subnode 560 heat transfer in shells interfaces 310
thin layer subnode 560 heat transfer in solids (node) 331
heat flux, interface (node) heat transfer in solids and fluids interface
heat transfer in shells 547 331
heat flux, theory 291 heat transfer in solids interface 308, 322,
heat rate 409, 467, 486, 488, 534 621, 624, 627, 630, 634, 636, 639, 641
heat source (node) 88, 491 theory 161
heat transfer 408 heat transfer interface 308, 338, 340
heat transfer in shells interface 489 heat transfer interfaces 308
heat transfer in shells, edge condition Heat Transfer Module 63
562 heat transfer with radiation in absorbing
heat source, interface (node) media (multiphysics interface) 629
heat transfer in shells 545, 550 heat transfer with radiation in absorb-
heat sources ing-scattering media (multiphysics
defining as heat rate 409 coupling) 667
line and point 565 heat transfer with radiation in absorb-
local thermal non-equilibrium 636 ing-scattering media (node) 667
thin layer 491 heat transfer with radiation in participat-
heat transfer coefficients ing media (multiphysics coupling)
theory 271 666
heat transfer in alloys (settings) 317 heat transfer with radiation in participat-
heat transfer in biological tissue (set- ing media (node) 666
tings) 317 heat transfer with radiation in participat-
heat transfer in building materials inter- ing medium (multiphysics coupling)
face 308 625, 628
heat transfer in films interface 309, 350 heat transfer with radiation in participat-
heat transfer in fluids (node) 327, 331 ing medium (multiphysics interface)
heat transfer in fluids interface 308, 327, 623, 626

696 | I N D E X
 heat transfer with radiative beam in ab- insulation (node) 602
sorbing media (multiphysics cou- insulation/continuity (node) 346, 350, 354
pling) 630, 669 internal boundary heat flux variables 70
heat transfer with radiative beam in ab- internal energy 45, 291
sorbing media (node) 669 internet resources 34
heat transfer with surface-to-surface ra- inward heat flux 82
diation (multiphysics coupling) 622, irreversible transformation (node) 88,
685 415
heat transfer with surface-to-surface ra- isothermal domain (node) 324, 418
diation (multiphysics interface) 620 isothermal domain (settings) 317, 324–
heat transfer with surface-to-surface ra- 325
diation (node) 685 isothermal domain interface (node) 325,
heat transfer with surface-to-surface ra- 501
diation interface 308 isotropic diffusion 93, 378, 381
heat transfer, and streamline diffusion 92
J Joule heating (multiphysics interface) 654
Heaviside function 175
K Karman constant 243
hemicubes, axisymmetric geometry and
Kays-Crawford models 242
219
knowledge base, COMSOL 37
I immobile fluids (node) 88, 411
L laminar flow interface 615, 643, 648
incident intensity (node) 365, 370, 494
laser heating (multiphysics interface) 655
inconsistent stabilization (settings) 318,
latent heat of evaporation 49, 179, 253,
320, 378, 381
395
inconsistent stabilization methods 93
latitude 218, 585
induction heating (multiphysics interface)
layer opacity (node) 505
656
layer thickness 45, 190–191, 195
infinite elements (node) 88
Legendre coefficient 44, 229, 389, 433
inflow (node) 497
line and point heat source variables 72
initial values
line heat source (node) 506
node (htlsh interface) 498
heat transfer interface 565
initial values (node) 322, 327, 332, 338,
line heat source on axis (node) 506
340–341, 346, 350, 354
heat transfer 506
heat transfer in shells interface 498
line heat source variable 72
heat transfer interface 414
local thermal non-equilibrium (multi-
moisture transport interface 596
physics coupling) 636, 670
radiative beam in absorbing media in-
local thermal non-equilibrium (multi-
terface 414
physics interface) 332, 635
surface-to-surface radiation interface
local thermal non-equilibrium interface
500

INDEX| 697
 theory 171 moving frames 86
longitude 218, 585 moving mesh, heat transfer, and 176, 438
MPH-files 36
M Marangoni effect (multiphysics coupling)
multiphysics couplings
687
electromagnetic heating (node) 661
mean effective thermal conductivity 452
Electromagnetic heating, layered shell
mean effective thermal diffusivity 453
(node) 683
mechanisms of heat transfer 155
flow coupling (node) 662
metabolic heat source 51, 391
heat and moisture (node) 664
microwave heating (multiphysics inter-
local thermal non-equilibrium (node)
face) 657
670
Mikic elastic correlation 257, 532
Marangoni effect (node) 687
moist air 405, 442
moisture flow (node) 672
moist air (moisture transport interface)
nonisothermal flow (node) 675
380
temperature coupling (node) 679
moist air (node) 88, 420, 666
thermal expansion (node) 679
moist surface (node) 602
thermoelectric effect (node) 680
moisture content 53, 260, 405, 422, 442
mutual irradiation 46, 211
moisture content (node) 604
moisture diffusivity 45, 234, 253, 594 N natural and forced convection 271
moisture flow (multiphysics coupling) nodes, common settings 29
645, 652, 672 nonisothermal flow (multiphysics cou-
moisture flow (multiphysics interface) pling) 95–96, 618, 652, 675
643 nonisothermal flow (multiphysics inter-
moisture flow interface face) 615
theory 244 nonisothermal flow interface
moisture flux (node) 605 theory 237
moisture source (node) normal conductive heat flux variable 69
moisture transport interface 599 normal convective heat flux variable 69
moisture storage capacity 57, 234, 253, normal total energy flux variable 69
594 Nusselt number 49, 173, 271, 400, 671
moisture storage function 53
O opaque (node) 423
moisture transfer coefficient 54
opaque surface (node) 365, 370, 506, 509
moisture transport in air interface 314,
open boundary (node) 512
380, 646, 652
optically thick participating medium
moisture transport in building materials
(node) 424
interface 314, 377
outflow (moisture transport interface)
moisture transport interface 666
607
moisture transport interfaces 315
outflow (node) 513

698 | I N D E X
 out-of-plane flux variables 68 porous medium
out-of-plane heat flux (node) 426 htlsh interface 480
out-of-plane heat transfer porous medium (moisture transport in-
theory 267 terface) 594
thin shells theory 194 porous medium (node) 88, 332, 354
out-of-plane inward heat flux variable 68 Prandtl number 50, 173, 242, 272
out-of-plane radiation (node) 428 prescribed radiosity (node) 515
out-of-plane thickness 45, 190–191, 195, pressure work (node) 446
198, 320, 549
R radiation
P P1 approximation 228, 365, 370, 388, 431 axisymmetric geometries, and 219,
pair boundary heat source (node) 466 360, 520
pair thermal contact (node) 530 participating media 220
participating media, radiative heat trans- radiation branch (settings) 358
fer 220 radiation group (node) 519
Peltier effect 249, 680, 689 radiation in participating media (node)
Pennes’ approximation 164, 392 rpm interface 430
performance index 50, 366, 371 radiation in participating media interface
perfusion rate, blood 57, 391 364
periodic condition (node) 514 theory 220
rpm interface 515 radiation intensity, blackbody 47, 221,
phase change material (node) 88, 434 430, 666
phase transitions 435 radiation, definition 156
physical model (settings) 317, 320, 322, radiative conductance 47, 258, 532
327, 332, 341, 377, 380 radiative heat flux variable 69
physics interfaces, common settings 29 radiative heat, theory 201
point heat flux (node) radiative out-of-plane heat flux variable
thin rod subnode 577 68
point heat source (node) radiative transfer equation 221
heat transfer 578 radiogenic heating per mass 51, 407
point heat source on axis (node) 579 radiosity 48, 201, 203, 211, 214, 473–474,
point heat source variable 72 507, 515, 522, 527, 583
point nodes 577 radiosity expressions 516–517
points radiosity method 205, 210
heat flux 577 ratio of specific heats 54, 404, 436–437,
surface-to-ambient radiation 580 441–442
temperature 581 Rayleigh number 51, 272
porous matrix model, extended (set- reflectivity 56, 201–202, 223
tings) 333 refractive index 49, 205, 207, 222–223,

INDEX| 699
 228, 366, 370, 425 spectral band 44, 206, 423, 473, 505, 507,
relative humidity 56, 179, 234–235, 253– 515, 522, 583
254, 260, 395, 405, 422, 442, 594, 597 stabilization techniques
Reynolds number 51, 271, 676 crosswind diffusion 92, 318, 320, 375,
extended Kays-Crawford 242 378, 381
Rodriguez formula 222 isotropic diffusion 318, 320, 375, 378,
381
S scattering, radiation and 221
streamline diffusion 318, 320, 375, 378,
sectors, azimuthal 219
381
Seebeck coefficient 52, 249, 682, 691
standard settings 29
Seebeck effect 249
stationary study 307
Semi-transparent surface 90
Subsurface Flow Module 407, 413, 444
semi-transparent surface (node) 522
sun position 588
sensible enthalpy 155
surface emissivity 54, 211, 428, 473, 510,
Settings for the Heat Transfer in Shells
517, 526, 533, 553, 569, 580
Interface 319
surface reflectivity 56
shape memory alloy (node) 88, 447
Surface-to-ambient radiation 90
shell thickness 190–191, 195, 198
surface-to-ambient radiation (node) 525
solar position 218, 583
fracture subnode 568
solid (node) 88, 322, 346, 450
thin film subnode 568
htlsh interface 539
thin layer subnode 568
solver settings 102
thin rod subnode 580
solving surface-to-surface radiation
surface-to-ambient radiation, interface
problems 109
(node) 552
source terms, bioheat 390
surface-to-surface radiation interface
specific heat capacity
358
biological tissue 393
theory 201
blood 44
symmetry (moisture transport interface)
damaged tissue 44, 417, 456
607
definition 153
symmetry (node)
fluid 44, 402
ht interface 527
fracture 44, 484
rpm interface 528
phase change 436–437
porous media 44, 439 T technical support, COMSOL 36
solid 44 temperature (node)
solids 448, 451 heat transfer in shells interface 573
thin rod 576 heat transfer interface 528
specific heat, blood 391 thin rod subnode 581
specific surface area 44, 173, 672 temperature coupling (multiphysics cou-

700 | I N D E X
 pling) 618, 679 thermal contact (node) 530
temperature, interface (node) theory 255
heat transfer in shells 555 thermal damage (node) 454
theory thermal diffusivity 54, 273, 453
bioheat transfer interface 164 thermal dispersion (node) 457
conjugate heat transfer multiphysics thermal expansion (multiphysics cou-
interface 237 pling) 679
heat flux and balance 291 thermal expansion coefficient 54, 153
heat transfer coefficients 270–271 Thermal expansion, layered shell 689
heat transfer in fluids interface 162 thermal friction 258
heat transfer in porous media interface thermal insulation 82
169 thermal insulation (node) 322, 327, 332,
heat transfer in solids interface 161 338, 340–341, 535, 571
isothermal domain feature 182 thermoelastic damping (node) 459
local thermal non-equilibrium inter- thermoelectric effect (multiphysics cou-
face 171 pling) 633, 680
material and spatial frames 295 thermoelectric effect (multiphysics inter-
moist air fluid type 260 face) 631
moisture flow interface 244 thermoelectric effect interface
nonisothermal flow 237 theory 248
out-of-plane heat transfer 267 Thermoelectric effect, layered shell 689
radiation in participating media inter- thickness 317, 377, 380
face 220 out-of-plane 45, 460, 549, 552, 554, 559,
radiative heat transfer in transparent 564
media 201 shell 45
surface tension coefficients 290 thin film 45
surface-to-surface radiation interface thin layer 45
201 thickness (node)
thermal contact 255 heat transfer interface 460
thermoelectric effect interface 248 htlsh interface 535
thin rod feature 200 thin conductive layers, definition 195
thermal conductivity 48, 155 thin film (node) 536
thermal conductivity components, thin thin layer (node) 539
shells 188 thin layer, general 187
thermal conductivity supplement 44, 178, thin moisture barrier (node) 608
396 thin rod (node) 575
thermal conductivity, frames and 298 Thomson effect 249
thermal conductivity, mean effective 452 time zone 218, 585

INDEX| 701
 time-dependent study 307 vapor resistance factor 55
total boundaries area 44 vapor saturation concentration 45, 235,
total energy flux variable 67 254, 597
total heat flux variable 66 vapor saturation pressure 179, 234, 253,
total internal energy 45 395, 594
total normal heat flux variable 68 Vickers correlation coefficient 256, 533
translational motion (node) 461 Vickers size index 256, 533
transparent media refractive index 49 view factors 46, 216, 424, 473–474, 509,
turbulence modeling constant 44, 247 525, 583
turbulent conjugate heat transfer viscous dissipation (node) 462
theory 238 volume reference temperature 91
turbulent flow, algebraic yPlus interface volumetric heat capacity 54, 453
616, 643, 648
W water content 178, 397
turbulent flow, k-e interface 616, 643, 649
websites, COMSOL 37
turbulent flow, k-omega interface 616,
wet surface (node) 609
643, 649
Y Young’s modulus 45
turbulent flow, low Re k-e interface 616,
644, 649 Z zenith 55, 218
turbulent flow, L-VEL interface 616, 643,
648
turbulent flow, Spalart-Allmaras inter-
face 616, 644, 649
turbulent flow, SST interface 616, 644,
649
turbulent heat flux variable 67
turbulent mixing (node)
moisture transport interface 599
turbulent nonisothermal flow interfaces
theory 238
turbulent Prandtl number 50, 242, 676
turbulent Schmidt number 674

V Vapor diffusion coefficient in air 45

vapor diffusion coefficient in air 235, 254,
597
vapor mass fraction 54, 405, 421, 442
vapor permeability 54, 179, 234, 253, 395,
594
vapor permeability of still air 54

702 | I N D E X