Conduction Through Alum. Plate

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    Conduction Plate
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating heat transfer through a 0.100" aluminum plate in a setup involving a 3' x 7' insulated subfloor with an electric heat mat. The heat mat outputs 150 watts, translating to approximately 511.5 BTU/hr after correcting the initial calculation. The user seeks clarity on whether lumped capacitance is necessary for accurate heat transfer estimation. The inquiry highlights the importance of understanding heat transfer principles in practical applications.

PREREQUISITES
  • Basic principles of heat transfer
  • Understanding of electric heating systems
  • Knowledge of thermal conductivity of materials, specifically aluminum
  • Familiarity with lumped capacitance theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research thermal conductivity values for aluminum
  • Learn about lumped capacitance and its applications in heat transfer
  • Explore methods for calculating heat transfer through solid materials
  • Investigate the effects of insulation on heat transfer efficiency
USEFUL FOR

Mechanical engineers, HVAC professionals, and anyone involved in thermal management or electric heating system design will benefit from this discussion.

sdlamb100
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I am an ME with my years of heat transfer approx. 20 years back. I have a 3' x 7' insulated sub floor that utilizes an electric heat mat (2' x 5'). The heat mat is on top of the sub floor. Oh and a reflective layer between the heat mat and the sub floor. Finally I have a .100" diamond plate on top.
My heat mat puts out 150 watts, 1.3 amps, 96 ohms. Being the mat is 10 ft^2, that is 15 watts ft^2 which transfers to 400.92 btu/hr. (I think).
This whole unit will store a motorcycle in a garage with a cover. So assume natural convection. I am stumbling and/or confused on the method to find the heat transfer I can expect through the .100" alum. plate to know if my mat is capable.
I know for the most part this is basic but do I need lumped capacitance etc? Any help is more than appreciated. Thank you so much!
 
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Ooops my apologies ... I based my BTU's off a 12 watt mat whereas the actual is 15w. So my BTU's should be 511.5 btu/hr!?
 

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