Abstract
The focus of this research paper is on the application of water based MgO nanofluids for thermal management of a car radiator. Nanofluids of different volumetric concentrations (i.e. 0.06%, 0.09%, and 0.12%) were prepared and then experimentally tested for their heat transfer performance in a car radiator. All concentrations showed enhancement in heat transfer compared to the pure base fluid. A peak heat transfer enhancement of 31% was obtained at 0.12% volumetric concentration of MgO in basefluid. The fluid flow rate was kept in a range of 8-16 liter per minute. Lower flow rates resulted in greater heat transfer rates as compared to heat transfer rates at higher flow rates for the same volumetric concentration. Heat transfer rates were found weakly dependent on the inlet fluid temperature. An increase of 8 degrees C in inlet temperature showed only a 6% increase in heat transfer rate.