One dimensional heat transfer through rectangular fin using finite element method (FEM)

This dissertation present a study of heat transfer through rectangular fin by using finite element method. In solving heat related problem, there are many methods that can be used. This study will be focused on this area with the objectives to develop FEM algorithm using MATLAB for 1-D heat transfer problem. By applying this algorithm to solve 1-D heat transfer problem, we will compare both numerical and exact solution result. From here, the variables of different number of nodes, length and conductivity properties were tested to investigate the effect. By focusing on 1-Dimenesional heat equation, the Galerkin method is used. This study will apply numerical solution technique using FEM to solve !-dimensional heat transfer through rectangular fins and developed a suitable algorithm for computational purpose. As expected, the results obtain are coherent with the theory with a negligible difference. Overall, this research shows that the number of nodes can affect the accuracy of result however the difference is so small that it does not have much effect. Meanwhile, the length does not relate or affect the number of nodes and are independent variable. Lastly, the material properties are the only variable that can affect both number of nodes and length.