Predicting Frost Formation Rate: A Solvable Problem?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on predicting the rate of frost formation around pipes carrying cryogenic fluids, particularly when relative humidity is known. Participants highlight the complexity of the problem due to multiple variables, including heat gain from frost formation and significant losses from convection, radiation, and conduction. Raveen suggests that experimental analysis may be the only viable solution, as assumptions could lead to inaccurate predictions. The consensus leans towards practical solutions, such as effective lagging, rather than attempting to solve the intricate calculations involved.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamics, particularly latent heat concepts.
  • Familiarity with heat transfer mechanisms: convection, conduction, and radiation.
  • Knowledge of cryogenic fluid properties and their effects on surrounding environments.
  • Experience with experimental analysis techniques in thermal studies.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for calculating latent heat in cryogenic applications.
  • Explore insulation techniques for cryogenic pipes, focusing on effective lagging materials.
  • Study the impact of relative humidity on frost formation in thermal systems.
  • Investigate experimental setups for measuring frost formation rates around pipes.
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, thermal analysts, and researchers involved in cryogenic fluid management and frost prevention strategies will benefit from this discussion.

raveen323
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Hi,
Could you please explain me how to predict the rate of formation of frost around a pipe carrying cryogenic fluid if the relative humidity is known?

I am not able to make any assumptions as frost is porous.
Is experimental analysis the only solution to this problem ?
Can it be solved by taking some assumptions?

Raveen
 
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I would hazard that this would be a wildly intractable problem.
There are so many variables.

If I were forced to take a stab at it, I'd have to assume that the main heat gain was due to the frost formation so that the latent heat of melting/freezing would be the major factor. But that neglects the very significant losses by convection, radiation and conduction, which are incalculable. I doubt that the answer would be even close to reality.

Why not just lag it well and good and forget about the problem?
 

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