Thermal mass flow sensor vs. thermal flux sensor

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SUMMARY

Thermal mass flow sensors and thermal flux sensors serve distinct purposes in measuring different physical phenomena. Thermal mass flow sensors, typically used for gases like air, quantify mass flow in units of kg/sec. In contrast, thermal flux sensors measure heat flow, providing output in watts/cm2. The functionality of thermal flux sensors is not limited to gas; they can also operate in vacuum conditions, allowing for thermal transfer calculations even without gas present.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermal mass flow measurement techniques
  • Familiarity with thermal flux measurement principles
  • Knowledge of units of measurement for mass flow and heat flow
  • Basic concepts of thermal transfer in different environments
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the specifications and applications of thermal mass flow sensors
  • Explore the principles of thermal flux measurement in various mediums
  • Study the Thermogage User's Guide for practical applications of thermal flux sensors
  • Investigate thermal transfer calculations in vacuum conditions
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, technicians, and researchers involved in thermal measurement applications, particularly those focusing on fluid dynamics and heat transfer technologies.

senmeis
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Hi,

What’s the difference between two similar sensors: thermal mass flow sensors (see attachment) and thermal flux sensors at https://vatell.com/index.php/thermogage. For me the former one is used to measure gas flow. What about the latter? Must there be gas for thermal flux sensors?

flow-sensor.webp
 
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Thermal mass flow sensors measure mass flow, normally of a gas such as air. The output has units of mass per time, such as kg/sec.

Thermal flux sensors measure heat flow. The output has units of power per area, such as watts/cm##^2##. A good explanation is in the Thermogage User's Guide: https://vatell.com/images/Use of Thermogage v2.pdf. This is a link in the vatell.com link in the OP.
 
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There are two cases for thermal transfer: with or without gas.

With gas: Can thermal flux be calculated with flow measurement?
Without gas: Is this the case only in vacuum?
 

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