How do you calculate heat flux through a piece of metal?

In summary, to calculate heat flux through a piece of metal, you need to know the thermal conductivity of the metal. You can use Fourier's Law to calculate the heat flux, which is given by q=-k(dT/dx), where k is the thermal conductivity and dT/dx is the temperature gradient across the metal.
  • #1
Con?used
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0
How do you calculate heat flux through a piece of metal??

Hello,
I need to calculate heat flux in W/m2 through a small cylindrical steel bar measuring 12mm length x 2mm diameter. At one end of the bar the temperature is 31C (the heated side) and at the other end it's 28C.

How do I calculate the heat flux in the above scenario? Is it possible? I'm guessing that I need to know the thermal conductivity of the steel at least?

Any assistance would be much appreciated.
Many Thanks
 
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  • #2


Hi Con?used, welcome to PF!

You do indeed need to know the thermal conductivity. The heat flux q is given by Fourier's Law:

[tex]q=-k\frac{dT}{dx}=-k\frac{T_2-T_1}{\Delta x}[/tex]

where k is the thermal conductivity. Does this answer your question?
 
  • #3


Thanks Mapes
 

1. What is heat flux?

Heat flux is the rate of heat transfer per unit area. It is a measure of how much heat flows through a particular surface in a given amount of time.

2. How do you calculate heat flux?

Heat flux can be calculated by dividing the amount of heat transferred by the area of the surface through which the heat is flowing. The formula for heat flux is Q/A, where Q is the amount of heat transferred and A is the surface area.

3. What factors affect heat flux through a piece of metal?

The factors that affect heat flux through a piece of metal include the temperature difference between the two sides of the metal, the thermal conductivity of the metal, and the thickness of the metal. Other factors such as air flow, surface roughness, and surface treatment can also play a role in heat flux.

4. How does the thermal conductivity of a metal affect heat flux?

The thermal conductivity of a metal is a measure of how easily heat can flow through it. A metal with a high thermal conductivity will allow heat to flow through it more easily, resulting in a higher heat flux. On the other hand, a metal with a low thermal conductivity will impede the flow of heat, resulting in a lower heat flux.

5. Can heat flux through a piece of metal be changed?

Yes, heat flux through a piece of metal can be changed by altering the factors that affect it. For example, increasing the temperature difference between the two sides of the metal will result in a higher heat flux. Changing the material of the metal or its thickness can also impact heat flux. Additionally, external factors such as insulation or air flow can be manipulated to change the heat flux through a piece of metal.

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