Calculate Heat Exchanger Size

Heat Exchanger Area Formula:

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

Heat Transfer Rate (Q):

Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient (U):

W/m²K

Log Mean Temperature Difference (ΔT_lm):

°C

Heat Exchanger Area (A):

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1. What is Heat Exchanger Area Calculation?

The heat exchanger area calculation determines the required surface area for heat transfer between two fluids at different temperatures. It's a fundamental parameter in heat exchanger design and selection.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the heat exchanger area formula:

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

Where:

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

Explanation: The equation calculates the required heat transfer area based on the amount of heat to be transferred, the overall heat transfer coefficient, and the temperature driving force.

3. Importance of Heat Exchanger Sizing

Details: Proper heat exchanger sizing is crucial for efficient heat transfer, energy conservation, and cost-effective design. Undersized exchangers can't meet thermal requirements, while oversized ones waste materials and space.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter heat transfer rate in watts, overall heat transfer coefficient in W/m²K, and log mean temperature difference in °C. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: How do I determine the overall heat transfer coefficient (U)?
A: U depends on the fluids, flow arrangement, materials, and fouling factors. Typical values range from 10-1000 W/m²K for different applications.

Q3: What are typical heat exchanger areas?
A: Areas vary widely from less than 1 m² for small applications to thousands of m² for large industrial processes.

Q4: Does this calculation work for all heat exchanger types?
A: This basic formula applies to all types, but specific corrections may be needed for different flow arrangements (counterflow, parallel flow, crossflow).

Q5: How does fouling affect heat exchanger area?
A: Fouling reduces the overall heat transfer coefficient, requiring larger surface area to achieve the same heat transfer rate.