Steam to Water Heat Exchanger Calculator

Heat Transfer Formula:

\[ Q = m_{steam} \times \lambda \]

Heat Transfer Rate (W):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is a Steam to Water Heat Exchanger Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the heat transfer rate when steam condenses to water in a heat exchanger.

Purpose: It helps engineers and technicians determine the thermal energy transferred during phase change from steam to water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Q = m_{steam} \times \lambda \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Heat transfer rate (Watts)
\( m_{steam} \) — Steam mass flow rate (kg/s)
\( \lambda \) — Latent heat of vaporization (J/kg)

Explanation: The steam mass flow rate is multiplied by the latent heat of vaporization to calculate the thermal energy released during condensation.

3. Importance of Heat Transfer Calculation

Details: Accurate heat transfer calculations ensure proper heat exchanger sizing, energy efficiency, and system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the steam mass flow rate in kg/s and latent heat of vaporization (default 2,257,000 J/kg for water at 1 atm). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is latent heat of vaporization?
A: The energy required to change 1 kg of liquid to vapor at constant temperature and pressure.

Q2: How does pressure affect the calculation?
A: Higher pressures reduce the latent heat value. Use appropriate λ values for your operating pressure.

Q3: What's a typical steam flow rate?
A: Industrial systems typically range from 0.1 to 50 kg/s, depending on application.

Q4: Does this account for subcooling?
A: No, this calculates only the latent heat portion. Add sensible heat calculations for complete energy transfer.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides theoretical maximum. Real systems may transfer 5-15% less due to inefficiencies.