Asbestos insulation - first year chem eng problem

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the thermal insulation properties of asbestos, specifically its thermal conductivity of 0.15 W/m·K. A participant calculated that a thickness of 0.2 cm of asbestos insulation is required to reduce heat loss from a spherical container by half. This thickness is questioned due to a lack of experience with asbestos, prompting further investigation into the accuracy of the calculation. Reference materials, including a table of thermal conductivities, are provided for additional context.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal conductivity concepts
  • Familiarity with spherical container heat loss calculations
  • Basic knowledge of insulation materials and their properties
  • Access to thermal conductivity reference tables
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the calculation methods for heat loss in spherical containers
  • Explore the properties and applications of asbestos insulation
  • Learn about alternative insulation materials with low thermal conductivity
  • Investigate the health and safety regulations regarding asbestos use
USEFUL FOR

Chemical engineering students, materials scientists, and professionals involved in thermal insulation design or safety assessments related to asbestos.

bruceflea
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
how good an insulator is asbestos? (thermal conductivity 0.15 W/ m K). I am trying to determine the thickness of insulation required to reduce the heat loss of a spherical container by half. The answer I calculated it to be is 0.2cm which to me doesn't seem right (too small?) but having no experience with asbestos, it may be correct?
 
Physics news on Phys.org

Similar threads

Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
3K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 27 ·
Replies
27
Views
6K
Replies
13
Views
6K
Replies
1
Views
5K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Replies
3
Views
5K
Replies
1
Views
3K