ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the electric network analogy for solving radiation problems is reviewed. This method can be used to solve many engineering applications such as electric heaters, radiation shields, and electric furnaces with insulating side walls. In addition, this chapter focuses on how to analyze and solve radiation heat transfer problems in an N-surface enclosure using a matrix of linear equations for more complicated electric or combustion furnace applications. By applying the energy balance to each surface of an N-surface enclosure, the matrix of linear equations can be established with each surface at a given surface temperature or surface heat flux boundary condition. Within this chapter, we assume that each surface has gray and diffuse properties and is kept at an isothermal condition. Combined modes of heat transfer such as radiation with conduction and radiation with convection are also presented.
