The compartments usually operate at the reduced-current mode due to the limitation of the temperature rise. We investigated the heat generation and dissipation mechanism of a compartment

and tried to improve the heat dissipation capacity by installing fans. Firstly

Ansys E-mag and CFX were used to develop the electro-magnetic-heat-flow coupled model for the compartment with and without fans. The distributions of heat generation

air velocity

and temperature-rise were obtained. Then the calculated results were validated by the relevant tests. Finally

based on the calculation model

the thermal performance of the compartment with fans were investigated. It is found that the upper terminals of the incoming circuit breaker are beyond the limitation of the temperature-rise in the absence of fans. The recirculation can be clearly observed near outlets

which has negative effects on the elimination of the heat gas. The thermal performance of the compartment can be improved by installing fans at the outlets. The average temperature rise of the upper terminals will be decreased by 28.6% and 42.1%

when the air velocity of fans is 3 m/s and 6 m/s

respectively.