Heat Transfer Formula (Convection):
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Definition: This calculator estimates the rate of heat transfer through convection based on the heat transfer coefficient, surface area, and temperature difference.
Purpose: It helps engineers, physicists, and students determine how much heat is transferred in convection processes.
The calculator uses Newton's Law of Cooling formula:
Where:
Explanation: The heat transfer rate is directly proportional to the coefficient, surface area, and temperature difference.
Details: Accurate heat transfer calculations are essential for designing HVAC systems, electronic cooling, industrial processes, and energy-efficient buildings.
Tips: Enter the heat transfer coefficient (typical values: 10-100 for natural convection, 50-1000 for forced convection), surface area in square meters, and temperature difference in Kelvin.
Q1: What is the heat transfer coefficient (h)?
A: It's a proportionality constant that depends on fluid properties, flow velocity, and surface characteristics.
Q2: Why use Kelvin for temperature difference?
A: Kelvin is used because it represents absolute temperature differences (1K = 1°C difference, but Kelvin starts from absolute zero).
Q3: What are typical h values?
A: Air (natural convection): 5-25 W/m²·K; Water (natural): 20-100; Air (forced): 10-200; Water (forced): 50-10,000.
Q4: Does this formula work for all heat transfer?
A: No, this is specifically for convection. Radiation and conduction have different formulas.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a basic estimate. Real-world applications may require more complex models accounting for additional factors.