Research on engine compartment thermal management based on field synergy for enhanced convective heat dissipation

This study establishes a full-vehicle CFD model for a multi-purpose vehicle to address thermal management challenges in engine compartments. By analyzing airflow behavior and heat transfer characteristics of components, potential heat risks are identified. A core innovation lies in the application of the field synergy principle to optimize the airflow guide structure of the lower guard shield, presenting an economical alternative to traditional heat shield solutions. The optimization specifically reduces the angle between the airflow velocity vector and the temperature gradient vector around overheating components, directly enhancing convective heat dissipation without additional material costs. Compared to the initial simulation results, the wall temperatures of overheating components (oil pan, rear mount, steering shaft, drive shaft) decreases by 11.9–20.5 °C after optimization. Experimental validation shows a maximum error of less than 5.5 %, confirming the feasibility of the scheme. This research innovatively integrates field synergy theory with practical structural optimization, effectively mitigating thermal risks without increasing manufacturing costs, which provides a cost-effective new path for engine compartment thermal management.