Study of heat transfer through layers of textiles using finite element method

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to present the results of a study on heat transfer through a textile assembly consisting of fabric and air layers based on a theoretical model capable of dealing with conductive, convective and radioactive heat transfer. Design/methodology/approach Quantificational results were given out by the aid of finite element (FE) analysis software MSC MARC Mentat. Findings Significant findings through this paper include the change in heat flux against time and the transit temperature distribution at the cross‐section of the fabric assembly. The size of the air gaps has a significant influence on the heat transfer. The balance heat flux drops by 40 per cent when the air gap increases from 2 to 10 mm. The influence of the air gap tends to become smaller as the air gap is further increased. The number of fabric layers in the textile assembly has a noted influence, more so when the ambient temperature is lower. Comparisons between the theoretical and tested results show a good agreement. Originality/value This paper has established a new method for clothing comfort study by making use of a general purpose FE method software package.