InFinding heat transfer coefficient experimentally

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on experimentally determining the heat transfer coefficient (h) for a cubic box using the equation Q=h*A*delta-T. The participant, Matt, plans to utilize thermocouples to measure temperature differences between the inside and outside surfaces of the box. He aims to calculate the heat transfer rate (Q) by analyzing temperature data over time, treating the space between the surfaces as a single resistance. The conversation also touches on the potential use of heat flux sensors, although they are deemed unnecessary for this project.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of heat transfer principles, specifically conduction and convection.
  • Familiarity with thermocouples and their application in temperature measurement.
  • Knowledge of Newton's law of cooling for temperature change analysis.
  • Basic proficiency in data analysis and plotting temperature vs. time graphs.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the application of thermocouples for accurate temperature measurement in heat transfer experiments.
  • Learn how to apply Newton's law of cooling to analyze temperature data effectively.
  • Investigate methods for calculating heat transfer rates (Q) in experimental setups.
  • Explore alternative methods for measuring heat transfer coefficients without using expensive heat flux sensors.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for engineers, researchers, and students involved in thermal analysis, particularly those conducting experiments related to heat transfer in enclosed systems.

DinoRF
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I'm working on a project where I have to construct a cubic box, then find the heat transfer coefficient through the box. I will be placing various object in the box to run tests on how they change the eat transfer coefficient. If I want to use the equation: Q=h*A*delta-T, how do I find Q, the heat transfer rate?

I'm thinking I will have thermocouples on the outside surface and on object on the inside of the box. I'll treat all the space in between as a single resistance, since I'm not worried about the heat transfer coefficient with respect to convection, radiation, or conduction, but rather the overall coefficient.

If I got the data for the outside temperature and the inside temperature and plotted that vs. time, would the Q just be the difference divided by the time of that difference?

Once I get Q, then solving for h should be simple.

I've also seen heat flux sensors, but those are expensive and I think and hope they are unnecessary.

-Matt
 
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You might be able to use Newton's law of cooling.
 

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