Physical Model and Experimental Verification of Butter Melting Under Compression in a Hot Pan

Professor Introduction

Vincent F | Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering

Home Institute：University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Project Description

This project aims to develop a physical model to explain the common process of butter melting under compression in a hot pan using theories from heat transfer and fluid mechanics. Students will conduct experiments to record data and validate the model's accuracy. Butter, a common substance in daily life, serves as an excellent material for students to understand phase change processes. After completing the theoretical and experimental investigation of butter, the resulting model/conclusions will be extended to general phase change materials. Students will also use COMSOL Multiphysics simulation software to observe the melting process of phase change materials without compression and compare it with the previously developed physical model. Phase change materials play a crucial role in thermal energy storage science, which is essential for promoting the use of renewable energy.

Project Keywords

Project Outline

Part 1 : Introduction to Phase Change and Heat Transfer
• Overview of Phase Change Processes and Their Importance
• Introduction to Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics Principles
• Relevance of Butter Melting as a Study Subject

Part 2 : Research Objectives and Hypotheses
• Investigating the Melting Process of Butter Under Compression in a Hot Pan
• Developing and Validating a Physical Model Using Mathematical Methods

Part 3 :  Review of Current Research and Methods
• Review of Existing Theories and Models in Heat Transfer and Fluid Mechanics
• Identification of Gaps and Limitations in Current Understanding

Part 4:  Development of the Physical Model
• Mathematical Formulation of the Melting Process Under Compression
• Incorporation of Heat Transfer and Fluid Dynamics Principles
• Theoretical Justification and Assumptions

Part 5 :  Experimental Design and Data Collection
• Designing Experiments to Observe Butter Melting Under Compression
• Recording and Analyzing Experimental Data
• Validation of the Physical Model with Experimental Results

Part 6 :  Simulation and Comparative Analysis
• Using COMSOL Multiphysics to Simulate Melting of Phase Change Materials Without Compression
• Comparing Simulation Results with the Physical Model
• Analysis of Differences and Similarities

Part 7 :  Results and Discussion
• Graphical Representation of Experimental and Simulation Results
• Interpretation of Results and Discussion of Implications for Phase Change Materials
• Comparison with Existing Models and Discussion of Advantages and Limitations

Part 8 :  Conclusion and Future Directions
• Summary of Key Findings and Their Significance
• Identification of Research Limitations and Suggestions for Future Research
• Recommendations for Applications in Thermal Energy Storage and Renewable Energy

Part 9: Reporting and Presentation
• Writing a Detailed Research Report with Clear Structure, Concise Language, and Accurate Data Presentation
• Preparing and Delivering a Clear and Engaging Oral Presentation of Research Background, Methods, Results, and Conclusions

Suitable for

High School Students:  
• Interest in Physics and Engineering: Students with a strong interest in physics and engineering principles.
• Basic Knowledge : Students with a basic understanding of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and phase change processes.

University students :  
• Relevant Major : Students majoring in physics, mechanical engineering, energy science, or related fields.
• Proficiency in Data Analysis and Simulation: Students with basic skills in data analysis and familiarity with simulation tools like COMSOL Multiphysics.

Researchers and educators:
• Advanced Knowledge :  Professionals with a deep understanding of heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and phase change materials.
• Teaching Integration :  Educators who can integrate research findings and methods into their courses and teaching practices.