Effectiveness Of Parallel Flow Heat Exchanger If Hot Fluid Is Minimum Fluid Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ \varepsilon_h = \frac{T_{hi} - T_{ho}}{T_{hi} - T_{ci}} \]

Inlet Temperature of Hot Fluid (T_hi):

Outlet Temperature of Hot Fluid (T_ho):

Inlet Temperature of Cold Fluid (T_ci):

Effectiveness (ε_h):

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1. What is the Effectiveness of Parallel-Flow Heat Exchanger?

The effectiveness of a parallel-flow heat exchanger when hot fluid is the minimum fluid represents the ratio of actual heat transfer to the maximum possible heat transfer. It indicates how efficiently the heat exchanger is performing its heat transfer function.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ \varepsilon_h = \frac{T_{hi} - T_{ho}}{T_{hi} - T_{ci}} \]

Where:

\( \varepsilon_h \) — Effectiveness when hot fluid is minimum fluid
\( T_{hi} \) — Inlet temperature of hot fluid (K)
\( T_{ho} \) — Outlet temperature of hot fluid (K)
\( T_{ci} \) — Inlet temperature of cold fluid (K)

Explanation: This formula calculates the effectiveness based on temperature differences, providing a measure of how effectively heat is being transferred between the fluids.

3. Importance of Effectiveness Calculation

Details: Calculating heat exchanger effectiveness is crucial for evaluating heat exchanger performance, optimizing energy efficiency, and designing thermal systems for various industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all temperature values in Kelvin. Ensure that temperatures are positive values and that the inlet temperature of hot fluid is greater than both outlet temperature of hot fluid and inlet temperature of cold fluid for meaningful results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does effectiveness value represent?
A: Effectiveness values range from 0 to 1, where 0 means no heat transfer and 1 means maximum possible heat transfer.

Q2: When is hot fluid considered the minimum fluid?
A: Hot fluid is the minimum fluid when its heat capacity rate (mass flow rate × specific heat) is lower than that of the cold fluid.

Q3: What are typical effectiveness values for heat exchangers?
A: Typical values range from 0.6 to 0.9, depending on the heat exchanger type, design, and operating conditions.

Q4: How does parallel-flow differ from counter-flow configuration?
A: In parallel-flow, both fluids enter at the same end and flow in the same direction, while in counter-flow, fluids enter at opposite ends and flow in opposite directions.

Q5: What factors affect heat exchanger effectiveness?
A: Effectiveness is influenced by flow arrangement, heat transfer area, fluid properties, flow rates, and temperature differences.