Comparative analysis of natural and forced convection: Fundamentals, advantages, and applications in thermal and agro-industrialsystems

Luigui Calderon; Sofian Huacacolqui · Agroindustrial science (2026) · DOI: 10.17268/agroind.sci.2026.02.12

Resumen

This study presents a detailed technical and bibliometric analysis of natural and forced convection heat transfer processes. It addresses their fundamental physical principles, mathematical formulations, variables that condition their performance and relevant applications in the thermal and agroindustrial sectors. The research was based on the examination of 169 scientific publications disseminated between 2010 and 2024, using specialized tools such as VOSViewer and Bibliometrix to explore trends, thematic axes and existing gaps in literature. Natural convection, recognized for its energy efficiency and structural simplicity, has shown effectiveness in passive systems such as solar drying or cooling without moving parts. On the other hand, forced convection, requiring mechanical intervention, allows more precise control of thermal conditions, being fundamental in processes such as battery cooling, pasteurization, sterilization and the operation of thermal photovoltaic panels. Bibliometric findings reflect a steady increase in studies on computational fluid dynamics (CFD), use of nanofluids and geometrical improvements.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional de Trujillo