Melting in a Rectangular Cavity

The present study deals with a new numerical approach for solid-liquid phase-change modeling. The new model is based on the enthalpy method and takes into account natural convection in the melt which can be coupled to the solid bulk sinking motion by the force balance on the solid bulk. A basic configuration is investigated, namely a two-dimensional rectangular cavity with a constant wall temperature. The effect of rather low values of the Archimedes and Rayleigh numbers on the sinking motion of the solid bulk, the melting rate and melting patterns, is explored. It is found that the density difference, between the solid and liquid phases, for the studied case does not affect considerably the results. However, it is shown that by natural convection alone the solid sinking motion is established, the melting rate is enhanced and the melting patterns are completely different in comparison with the first studied case.