Formula Used:
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The heat transfer coefficient formula calculates the rate of heat transfer per unit area per degree temperature difference. This specific formula is used for calculating the total heat transfer coefficient for long cylinders in convective heat transfer scenarios.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This empirical correlation is derived from dimensional analysis and experimental data for forced convection in tubes and long cylinders.
Details: Accurate heat transfer coefficient calculation is crucial for designing heat exchangers, cooling systems, and various thermal engineering applications. It helps determine the efficiency of heat transfer processes and optimize system performance.
Tips: Enter all values in the specified units. Mass velocity, thermal conductivity, specific heat capacity, diameter, and viscosity must all be positive values for accurate calculation.
Q1: What is the typical range of heat transfer coefficients?
A: Heat transfer coefficients vary widely depending on the fluid and flow conditions, typically ranging from 5-25 W/m²·K for natural convection to 50-20,000 W/m²·K for forced convection.
Q2: When is this specific formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically designed for turbulent flow in long cylinders and tubes with Reynolds numbers typically above 10,000.
Q3: What are the limitations of this equation?
A: The formula assumes fully developed turbulent flow, smooth tube surfaces, and constant fluid properties. It may not be accurate for laminar flow, rough surfaces, or fluids with significant property variations.
Q4: How does tube diameter affect heat transfer?
A: Smaller tube diameters generally result in higher heat transfer coefficients due to increased fluid velocity and turbulence for the same mass flow rate.
Q5: Can this formula be used for non-circular tubes?
A: For non-circular tubes, an equivalent hydraulic diameter should be used instead of the actual diameter for approximate calculations.