Optimization of Airflow Distribution for Enhanced Heat Dissipation in Electric Vehicle Battery Packs Using Computational Fluid Dynamics

Author

Aman, Dr. Naveen Hooda

Abstract

Efficient heat dissipation remains a major engineering challenge in lithium-ion battery packs used for electric vehicles, particularly when multiple cells operate within a compact enclosure. Non-uniform airflow, restricted cooling passages, and localized heat accumulation can produce temperature differences that affect battery performance and long-term reliability. This paper examines the optimization of forced-air cooling arrangements for improving thermal distribution within a cylindrical lithium-ion battery module using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The proposed numerical methodology considers the influence of battery spacing, airflow pathways, inlet-outlet positioning, and flow resistance on the cooling behavior of the battery pack. A three-dimensional computational model is formulated for analysis in ANSYS Fluent, incorporating conservation of mass, momentum, and energy. Thermal performance is assessed through maximum cell temperature, temperature variation, airflow velocity, and pressure drop. An illustrative comparison based on the dissertation's reported values indicates a reduction in maximum temperature from 46°C to 41°C and a decrease in pressure drop from 96 Pa to 72 Pa between the initial and optimized configurations. These correspond to improvements of approximately 10.9% and 25%, respectively. The comparison demonstrates the potential benefits of improved airflow distribution while emphasizing the need for numerical verification and experimental validation. The study presents a systematic framework for evaluating cooling-channel modifications and identifying design arrangements that balance thermal performance with aerodynamic resistance. Its findings may support the development of compact, lightweight, and energy-conscious battery thermal management systems for electric vehicle applications.

Keywords

Electric Vehicle, Airflow Optimization, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Lithium-Ion Battery, Heat Dissipation, Battery Thermal Management, ANSYS Fluent.

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References

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