Heat transfer in a double pipe HE

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the analysis of heat transfer in a double pipe heat exchanger, focusing on discrepancies in calculated heat transfer rates using different equations. Participants explore the implications of these differences and the concept of energy balance in the context of their experimental results.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant calculated heat transfer using the latent heat of vaporization (equation ii) and obtained a result of 28 kW.
  • Another participant calculated heat transfer using the specific heat capacity of water (equation iii) and obtained a result of 59 kW.
  • There is confusion regarding why the two heat transfer results differ significantly, with one participant suggesting that heat losses could be a factor.
  • Participants discuss the concept of energy balance and question whether comparing the two q values constitutes a valid verification of heat transfer rates.
  • There is a request for additional data, including flow rates and specific heat values, to further analyze the situation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express uncertainty regarding the reasons for the discrepancy in heat transfer calculations. Some suggest that heat losses may explain the difference, while others question the validity of the energy balance approach. No consensus is reached on the underlying causes or the best method for verification.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not provided specific data on flow rates or heat of vaporization, which may be necessary for a complete analysis. The discussion also highlights the potential for heat losses in the system, but these factors remain unresolved.

nod32
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Homework Statement


I performed an experiment using a double pipe heat exchanger. Readings were taken at steady state.

Cold water entered the inner tube at 9°C, and its exit temp was 81°C. (flow rate was measured).

The outer tube contained steam at 133°C and this temperature remained constant. Condensate flow rate was measured.


Homework Equations



i) q=U A ΔT(lmtd)
ii) q=m h_{fg} (where hfg is heat of vaporization)
iii) q=m Cp ΔT(bulk)

The Attempt at a Solution


Since the steam did not change temperature but condensed, there was latent heat transfer. q was calculated using ii). (result q=28kW)

I then calculated q using equation iii) applied to the cold water stream. (result q=59kW)

I don't understand why these two results are so far apart. In a perfect system, wouldn't they be equal?
 
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nod32 said:

Homework Statement


I performed an experiment using a double pipe heat exchanger. Readings were taken at steady state.

Cold water entered the inner tube at 9°C, and its exit temp was 81°C. (flow rate was measured).

The outer tube contained steam at 133°C and this temperature remained constant. Condensate flow rate was measured.


Homework Equations



i) q=U A ΔT(lmtd)
ii) q=m h_{fg} (where hfg is heat of vaporization)
iii) q=m Cp ΔT(bulk)

The Attempt at a Solution


Since the steam did not change temperature but condensed, there was latent heat transfer. q was calculated using ii). (result q=28kW)

I then calculated q using equation iii) applied to the cold water stream. (result q=59kW)

I don't understand why these two results are so far apart. In a perfect system, wouldn't they be equal?

Yes. And, even if there were heat losses, q ii would be higher than q iii, rather than lower. Show us the data.
 
Yes my mistake, I mixed them up. The higher q came from equation ii). I guess that makes sense since not all the released energy from the condensation ends up warming the cold stream.
So this large difference can be attributed to heat losses?

I'm also asked to do an energy balance to verify the accuracy of the heat transfer rates. Isn't that what I just did when I compared the two q values? How would that verify anything, as they would always be different?
 
nod32 said:
Yes my mistake, I mixed them up. The higher q came from equation ii). I guess that makes sense since not all the released energy from the condensation ends up warming the cold stream.
So this large difference can be attributed to heat losses?

I'm also asked to do an energy balance to verify the accuracy of the heat transfer rates. Isn't that what I just did when I compared the two q values? How would that verify anything, as they would always be different?

Let's see the data. Flow rates, heat of vaporization at 133, Cp used?
 

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