Coefficient of Thermal conductivity

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the coefficient of thermal conductivity (K) and its dependence on temperature in the context of heat conduction. Participants explore how to accurately calculate heat transfer (Q) when K varies with temperature, including the implications for analytical and numerical methods.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants note that K varies with temperature and question which K value should be used when calculating Q for given temperatures T2 and T1.
  • One participant states that the equation Q = KA(t2-t1)/thickness is valid only if K can be assumed constant over the temperature range.
  • Another participant asks how to analytically calculate Q if K is not constant and inquires about alternative relations for calculating Q.
  • It is mentioned that heat conduction problems with temperature-dependent material properties are often solved using numerical methods.
  • A mathematical expression is presented, suggesting an integral approach to account for the variation of K with temperature in the calculation of Q.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on how to handle the temperature dependence of K, with no consensus on a single method for calculating Q when K varies.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity introduced by temperature-dependent properties, but do not resolve the implications for specific calculations or methods.

imselva
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TL;DR
K depends on temperature. K varies with temperature. For all the materials we have a tabular data of K for different temperatures.
While calculating Q for which temperature K value has to be taken?
Which K value is valid?
We know that,

Conduction Heat Transfer Q = KA(t2-t1)/thickness

K is the coefficient of thermal conductivity. If T2 = 1020°C and T1= 22°C also consider we know A and thickness value.

K depends on temperature. K varies with temperature. For all the materials we have a tabular data of K for different temperatures.
While calculating Q for which temperature K value has to be taken?
Which K value is valid?
 
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The equation Q = KA(t2-t1)/thickness is only valid in case the coefficient of thermal conductivity can be assumed to be about constant in the given temperature range.
 
If it is not constant, how to calculate it analytically?
Is there any other relation to calculate Q
 
Heat conduction problems with temperature dependent material properties are preferentially solved using numerical methods.
 
$$Q=-kA\frac{dT}{dx}$$so $$Q\Delta x=-A\int_{T_1}^{T_2}{kdT}$$
 
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