Confusion in understanding how electric heating works

In summary, the conversation was about a project involving the construction of a small heater using copper-windings and a steel rod. The power input into the heater was determined to be 0.368W at a constant voltage of 1.5 volts, with a resistance of 6.1ohms and a duration of 180 seconds. The question was then raised about how to calculate the heat pulse generated during this time and what formula to use. The concept of power being measured in joules of energy per second was explained using the analogy of running. The use of copper wire was questioned as it is a good conductor and may not get hot with a small amount of current. However, it was clarified that as long as the right
  • #1
alditi
3
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I'm working on a project in which I have to build a tiny 4 cm long heater. I did this with copper-windings stuffed in a tiny steel rod. Now I know the power input into this heater is 0.368W, at constant voltage 1.5 volts and the resistance of the heating element is 6.1ohms for a time of 180seconds.

I want to know how to calculate the heat pulse (q) generated in this time. What's the formula for doing this? The internet is unclear. Take this at any distance r from the axis.
 
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  • #2
If there is nothing else in the circuit then the same power input is output. Power is joules of energy per second. So, if you are giving it .368 joules per second over 180 seconds, how many joules is that altogether? Its like if you can run 5 miles per hour and you run 3 hours how many miles have you run?
 
  • #3
Did you really use Copper Wire? It is more normal to use resistance wire because copper is such a good conductor that it does not get hot until you put a massive amount of current through it.

Total heat delivered (Energy, in Joules) will be Heater Power in Watts times time in seconds. If you are told the Power, then, as long as you are using the right supply voltage, you don't need to do any more electrical calculations. To check that the Power you are given agrees with the Volts and Resistance, you can use
Power = Volts Squared / Resistance

PS what has "distance r from the axis" got to do with this? IS this something to do with the measurements on the water temperature?
 

What is electric heating and how does it work?

Electric heating is a process of converting electrical energy into heat energy to warm up a space or object. This is achieved through the use of an electric heating element, which is typically a coiled wire that is heated up when an electric current passes through it. The heat generated by the element is then transferred to the surrounding area through conduction, convection, or radiation.

What are the different types of electric heating?

There are several types of electric heating, including resistance heating, heat pumps, and infrared heating. Resistance heating is the most common type and involves using a heating element to directly convert electrical energy into heat. Heat pumps use electricity to transfer heat from one location to another, while infrared heating uses electromagnetic radiation to heat up objects directly without heating the surrounding air.

What factors affect the efficiency of electric heating?

The efficiency of electric heating depends on several factors, including the temperature difference between the heat source and the heated space, the insulation of the heated space, and the type of heating element used. Additionally, the size and design of the heating system can also impact its efficiency.

What are the benefits of electric heating?

Electric heating offers several benefits, including easy installation, low maintenance, and precise temperature control. It is also a more environmentally friendly option compared to fossil fuel heating systems, as there are no emissions of harmful gases. Additionally, electric heating systems can be powered by renewable energy sources, making it a sustainable choice.

What are the limitations of electric heating?

One of the main limitations of electric heating is its higher operating cost compared to other heating methods. This is because electricity is usually more expensive than other energy sources, such as natural gas or oil. Additionally, electric heating may not be suitable for large spaces or areas with very cold climates, as it may struggle to maintain a consistent and comfortable temperature.

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