Mathematical Modeling of Batch Heating of Liquids in a Microwave Cavity

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Abstract
Using a heat generation term that exponentially decayed from the surface into the liquid, the energy and flow equations were solved to successfully predict temperatures inside a cylindrical container of liquid in a microwave cavity (oven). The heating rate at the surface was estimated from measured temperature rise. Focusing of the microwaves, which was experimentally observed for 11 cm diameter, was eliminated by using a larger (17 cm) diameter container. A recirculation pattern was set up where the warmer liquid near the surface was rising owing to a higher rate of heating. Transient temperature profiles were almost linear. The radial temperature profiles were almost uniform, with a slight increase toward the wall. The axial temperatures increased with height to show stratification. Heating uniformity slowly decreased with time owing to the spatially varying rate of heat generation.

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