A long rod of $20-\mathrm{mm}$ diameter and a thermal conductivity of $1.5 \mathrm{~W} / \mathrm{m} \cdot \mathrm{K}$ has a uniform internal volumetric thermal energy generation of $10^{6} \mathrm{~W} / \mathrm{m}^{3}$. The rod is covered with an electrically insulating sleeve of 2-mm thickness and thermal conductivity of $0.5 \mathrm{~W} / \mathrm{m} \cdot \mathrm{K}$. A spider with 12 ribs and dimensions as shown in the sketch has a thermal conductivity of $175 \mathrm{~W} / \mathrm{m} \cdot \mathrm{K}$, and is used to support the rod and to maintain concentricity with an $80-$ mm-diameter tube. Air at $T_{\infty}=25^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$ passes over the spider surface, and the convection coefficient is $20 \mathrm{~W} / \mathrm{m}^{2} \cdot \mathrm{K}$. The outer surface of the tube is well insulated.
We wish to increase volumetric heating within the rod, while not allowing its centerline temperature to exceed $100^{\circ} \mathrm{C}$. Determine the impact of the following changes, which may be effected independently or concurrently: (i) increasing the air speed and hence the convection coefficient; (ii) changing the number and/or thickness of the ribs; and (iii) using an electrically nonconducting sleeve material of larger thermal conductivity (e.g., amorphous carbon or quartz). Recommend a realistic configuration that yields a significant increase in $\dot{q}$.