Crossflow Tube Heat Transfer Calculator

Heat Transfer Equation:

\[ Q = U \times A \times \Delta T_{lm} \]

Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient (U):

W/m²K

Heat Transfer Area (A):

m²

Log Mean Temperature Difference (ΔT_lm):

Heat Transfer Rate (Q):

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1. What is Crossflow Tube Heat Transfer?

Crossflow tube heat transfer refers to the thermal energy exchange between fluids where one fluid flows perpendicular to the orientation of the tubes. This configuration is common in heat exchangers, radiators, and various industrial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental heat transfer equation:

\[ Q = U \times A \times \Delta T_{lm} \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Heat transfer rate (W)
\( U \) — Overall heat transfer coefficient (W/m²K)
\( A \) — Heat transfer area (m²)
\( \Delta T_{lm} \) — Log mean temperature difference (K)

Explanation: The equation calculates the rate of heat transfer based on the overall heat transfer coefficient, the available surface area, and the temperature difference between the fluids.

3. Importance of Heat Transfer Calculation

Details: Accurate heat transfer calculations are crucial for designing efficient heat exchangers, predicting thermal performance, and optimizing energy usage in industrial processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the overall heat transfer coefficient in W/m²K, heat transfer area in m², and log mean temperature difference in Kelvin. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is log mean temperature difference?
A: ΔT_lm is the logarithmic average of the temperature differences between the hot and cold fluids at each end of the heat exchanger.

Q2: How is U determined in practice?
A: The overall heat transfer coefficient is typically determined experimentally or calculated from individual heat transfer coefficients and thermal resistances.

Q3: What are typical U values for crossflow heat exchangers?
A: U values vary widely (10-1000 W/m²K) depending on fluids, flow rates, and materials. Water-to-air typically ranges 30-60 W/m²K.

Q4: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The basic equation assumes steady-state conditions, constant U value, and no phase change. Corrections may be needed for complex scenarios.

Q5: How does crossflow differ from parallel/counter flow?
A: Crossflow has perpendicular fluid paths, typically resulting in lower ΔT_lm than counterflow but higher than parallel flow arrangements.