Numerical solution of natural convection in eccentric annuli

In the present study the problem of free convection flow within an eccentric annulus is numerically solved using bipolar coordinate transformation and one-dimensional finite element and pseudospectral algorithms. Steady state results are compared with existing theoretical and experimental data. Computational results support data previously published in the literature. In negative eccentric displacements, heat transfer rates are greater than in concentric configurations. Heat transfer rates are lowest when the inner cylinder is displaced upwards towards the outer cylinder. In horizontally eccentric configurations, local conductivities are nearly symmetric about each vertical half-plane. Streamlines and isotherms are displaced slightly from the mid-plane axis.