(Thermo 3D) Power needed to maintain temp

In summary, the power required to maintain an internal temperature of 25 degrees celsius in a cube full of water with glass walls, in an external environmental temperature of 20 degrees celsius, can be calculated by assuming a few conditions and using the equation Power = Thermal Resistance of glass * (surface area/thickness of glass) * (Twater - Tair).
  • #1
jerrythewhale
1
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If we have a cube full of water and glass walls, with an external environmental temperature of 20 degrees celsius, what is the power required to maintain an internal temperature of 25 degrees celsius?

Assume sides are 50cm.

I don't know what to do, I was trying out the P = (kA/L)(Tf-Ti) equation, but due to lack of experience, I don't know how to apply it when you have three mediums (air, glass, and water). Please help?
 
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  • #2
You will probably have to make some assumptions. For example you could assume..

1) The water is stirred so that the temperature is a uniform 25C.
2) Likewise the air outside is also stirred so that all the air in contact with the glass is 20C.
3) The thermal resistance between water and glass is zero.
4) The thermal resistance between glass and air is zero.

Then it simplifies to..

Power = Thermal Resistance of glass * (surface area/thickness of glass) * (Twater - Tair)

Make sure the units for the thermal resistance of glass match those for the surface area/thickness.
 

FAQ: (Thermo 3D) Power needed to maintain temp

How is power needed to maintain temperature calculated?

The power needed to maintain temperature is calculated using the formula: Power = heat capacity x change in temperature / time. This equation takes into account the amount of heat energy needed to increase or decrease the temperature of the object, as well as the time it takes for the temperature change to occur.

What factors affect the power needed to maintain temperature?

The power needed to maintain temperature can be affected by a number of factors, including the type of material being heated or cooled, the initial and desired temperature, and the rate of heat transfer. Other factors such as insulation and environmental conditions can also impact the power needed to maintain temperature.

How does the power needed to maintain temperature differ in different environments?

The power needed to maintain temperature can vary significantly in different environments. For example, in a well-insulated and temperature-controlled room, the power needed may be lower than in an uncontrolled outdoor environment. This is because the surrounding temperature and heat transfer rate can greatly impact the power needed to maintain a specific temperature.

How does the power needed to maintain temperature change over time?

The power needed to maintain temperature typically decreases over time as the object reaches the desired temperature. This is because less energy is required to maintain the temperature once it has been reached. However, if there are any external factors (such as a change in ambient temperature) or internal factors (such as a change in the material's properties), the power needed may fluctuate over time.

How can the power needed to maintain temperature be reduced?

There are several ways to reduce the power needed to maintain temperature, including improving insulation, using more efficient heating or cooling methods, and minimizing temperature fluctuations. Additionally, choosing materials with a higher heat capacity can reduce the power needed, as they are able to store more heat energy and maintain temperature for longer periods of time.

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