How to calculate heat dispersion through a solid copper rod?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on calculating heat dispersion through a solid copper rod, specifically a cylindrical rod measuring 3 cm in length and 0.05 cm in radius, with a total power output of 20 watts. The user has already calculated essential thermal properties including density, specific heat, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity. The goal is to determine the temperature change at various points along the rod to assess its effectiveness as a heat sink for a fanless computer case. The user is also open to exploring alternative materials like aluminum or heat pipes if the copper rod proves inadequate.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal conductivity and its implications in heat transfer
  • Familiarity with specific heat and thermal diffusivity concepts
  • Basic knowledge of cylindrical geometry for calculating volume and surface area
  • Experience with thermal analysis techniques and temperature measurement
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical models for one-dimensional heat conduction in solids
  • Learn about transient heat conduction and the use of the heat equation
  • Investigate the performance characteristics of aluminum as a heat sink material
  • Explore the design and functionality of heat pipes for enhanced thermal management
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for thermal engineers, electronics designers, and anyone involved in optimizing heat dissipation in compact electronic devices.

Jim Smith
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I'm trying to build a fanless computer case for a small electronic device. I'm trying to figure out what type of heat-sink material I should use. I have a solid copper rod about 3cm in length with a radius of .05cm.

I've determined and calculated the density, specific heat, thermal conductivity, thermal diffusivity, initial temperature at one end of the rod, and total power output (20 watts). Aside from me performing some experiment and measuring the temperature at various points through out the solid rod, is there a way I can initially calculate the temperature change at certain points from the information I have?

In the end, I want to be able to see if the heat from the initial point of contact will move/disperse up the solid rod to the other end fast enough and what's its temperature if/when it reaches that point. This is just a solid copper cylindrical rod with no fins or cuts. It's just a block of copper that's being used as a heat-sink between my devices cpu and outside case.

If the copper rod can't move the heat fast enough or at all, I want to be able to try other materials such as aluminum.
 
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I'll consider it when these solid rods prove insufficient.
 

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