SUMMARY
The Nusselt number (Nu) for laminar fully developed pipe flow is not constant; it varies based on boundary conditions. For constant heat flux, Nu is 4.36, while for constant wall temperature, it is 3.66. The formula Nu = h D/K indicates that Nu is dependent on the heat transfer coefficient (h), pipe diameter (D), and thermal conductivity (K). Additionally, for shorter pipes, the Nusselt number varies along the length of the pipe, contradicting the assumption of constancy in the formula.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of Nusselt number and its significance in heat transfer.
- Familiarity with laminar flow characteristics in fluid dynamics.
- Knowledge of boundary conditions in thermal systems.
- Basic principles of heat transfer, including heat flux and thermal conductivity.
NEXT STEPS
- Research the derivation of the Nusselt number for different flow conditions.
- Study the impact of boundary conditions on heat transfer in pipes.
- Explore the differences between constant heat flux and constant wall temperature scenarios.
- Investigate the behavior of Nusselt number in non-ideal or shorter pipe flows.
USEFUL FOR
Mechanical engineers, thermal system designers, and students studying fluid dynamics and heat transfer principles.