Creating an Air Flow Meter Using an Iron Heating Element

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on creating an air flow meter using a heating element sourced from an iron. The proposed method involves inserting the heating element into a duct and measuring the current changes as air flows over it, which affects its temperature and resistance. Concerns were raised regarding the accuracy of this method, suggesting the need for additional temperature measurements upstream and downstream. The participant also plans to convert the current readings to voltage for use with a microcontroller.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electrical circuits, specifically series connections and current measurement.
  • Knowledge of thermodynamics related to heat transfer and resistance changes in materials.
  • Familiarity with microcontroller programming for data processing.
  • Experience with basic electronic components such as ammeters and voltage converters.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for measuring air flow using thermal mass flow sensors.
  • Learn about the principles of thermocouples and their application in temperature measurement.
  • Explore the use of Arduino or Raspberry Pi for interfacing with sensors and data logging.
  • Investigate alternative air flow measurement techniques, such as pitot tubes or anemometers.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for hobbyists, electronics enthusiasts, and engineers interested in developing custom air flow measurement devices using basic components and principles of thermodynamics.

RApak
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Homework Statement



i am trying to make an air flow meter using an heating element which i got from an iron..basically i have thought of inserting the element into a duct through which i will pass air using a blower,to connect the element with a 12v supply in series with a ammeter...thn i ahve planned to scale the amount of air flowing with respect to the cahnges in current tht it produces.i am not sure if i will suceed with this idea..i would like to know what others tink about it

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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You mean to measure the changes in resistance due to self heating? I don't think that will be very accurate. I'd think you'll need an upstream and a downstream thermometer.

I hope this is an 110V heating element, that you run with such a low voltage that the temparature can't get dangerously high? Even at only 1% a heating element without attached iron can get quite hot already.
 
i just want to measure the air flow using the element..if i apply 12 volts across it and let air flow across it it would cool down and the resistance would change causing the current to change right??..i have to further convert the current to voltage so that i can use a micro controller ahead..if u have any other ideas of how to make an air flow meter please do post them
 

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