1. What is a Heat Exchanger Capacity Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the thermal capacity of a heat exchanger based on mass flow rate, specific heat capacity, and temperature difference.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians calculate the heat transfer rate in heat exchanger systems for design and analysis purposes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( Q \) — Heat exchanger capacity (Watts)
• \( \dot{m} \) — Mass flow rate (kg/s)
• \( c \) — Specific heat capacity (J/kg·K)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature difference (Kelvin)

Explanation: The capacity is calculated by multiplying the mass flow rate of the fluid by its specific heat capacity and the temperature difference across the heat exchanger.

3. Importance of Heat Exchanger Capacity Calculation

Details: Accurate capacity calculation ensures proper heat exchanger sizing, energy efficiency, and system performance in HVAC, industrial processes, and power generation systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the mass flow rate in kg/s, specific heat capacity (default 4186 J/kg·K for water), and temperature difference in Kelvin. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What units should I use for the inputs?
A: Use kg/s for mass flow rate, J/kg·K for specific heat, and Kelvin for temperature difference for consistent Watt output.

Q2: What's a typical specific heat value for water?
A: Water has a specific heat of about 4186 J/kg·K at standard conditions, but this varies with temperature and pressure.

Q3: How do I convert between temperature units?
A: 1°C temperature difference = 1K difference. For absolute temperatures, K = °C + 273.15.

Q4: Can I use this for gases?
A: Yes, but use the appropriate specific heat value for the gas (typically lower than water).

Q5: What if I have volumetric flow rate instead of mass flow?
A: Convert using density: mass flow = volumetric flow × density (kg/m³).