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Nusselt Number Formula:
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The Nusselt number based on diameter (NuD) is a dimensionless number that represents the ratio of convective to conductive heat transfer across a boundary. It is particularly important in heat transfer analysis for liquid metals and other fluids.
The calculator uses the Nusselt number formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the Nusselt number for natural convection heat transfer, specifically designed for liquid metals where the Prandtl number is typically low.
Details: Accurate Nusselt number calculation is crucial for designing heat transfer systems, predicting heat transfer rates, and optimizing thermal performance in various engineering applications involving liquid metals.
Tips: Enter the Grashof number based on diameter and Prandtl number. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the Nusselt number based on the provided formula.
Q1: What is the typical range of Nusselt numbers for liquid metals?
A: Nusselt numbers for liquid metals typically range from 0.1 to 10, depending on the flow conditions and geometry.
Q2: Why is this formula specific to liquid metals?
A: Liquid metals have very low Prandtl numbers (typically 0.01-0.1), which significantly affects their heat transfer characteristics compared to conventional fluids.
Q3: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: This formula is specifically valid for natural convection of liquid metals and may not be accurate for other fluids or forced convection conditions.
Q4: How does the Grashof number affect the Nusselt number?
A: The Grashof number represents the ratio of buoyancy to viscous forces. Higher Grashof numbers indicate stronger natural convection, leading to higher Nusselt numbers.
Q5: Can this calculator be used for other fluids besides liquid metals?
A: This specific formula is optimized for liquid metals. Other fluids with different Prandtl numbers may require different correlation formulas.