Comprehensive Performance Modeling and Evaluation Method for Machine-Tool Thermal Control Plates Based on an Equivalent Thermal Resistance Network

To address the coupled challenge of heat-transfer enhancement and energy consumption in machine-tool temperature control plates under high-flow-rate conditions, a comprehensive performance evaluation method based on an equivalent thermal resistance network is developed. By introducing heat-transfer power, equivalent total thermal resistance, and a coefficient of performance (COP), the thermal performance and energy cost are quantitatively characterized. Building upon established thermal resistance modeling approaches, the method provides a systematic framework for performance evaluation. The effects of inlet flow rate and heat-source temperature are investigated using CFD under consistent conditions, and experimental validation is conducted. The results show that increasing the flow rate enhances heat transfer but exhibits diminishing returns, while the rapidly increasing pressure drop reduces energy efficiency. Increasing the heat-source temperature mainly improves heat-transfer power by strengthening the temperature difference, with a limited impact on thermal resistance. Good agreement among theoretical, numerical, and experimental results confirms the validity and engineering applicability of the proposed method.