Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-32 A fluid flows through a pipe in calm ambient air. The pipe is heated electrically. The thickness of the
insulation needed to reduce the losses by 85% and the money saved during 10-h are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Properties Insulation will drop the outer surface temperature to a value close to the ambient temperature,
and possible below it because of the very low sky temperature for radiation heat loss. For convenience, we
use the properties of air at 1 atm and 5C (the anticipated film temperature) (Table A-22),
k 0.02401 W/m.C

Tsky = -30C

1.382 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7350
1
1

0.003597 K -1
Tf
(5 273) K

T = 0C
= 0.1

D + 2tins

Asphalt

Analysis The rate of heat loss in the previous problem was

obtained to be 29,094 W. Noting that insulation will cut down
the heat losses by 85%, the rate of heat loss will be

Insulation

L = 100 m

(1 0.85)Q

Q
no insulation 0.15 29,094 W 4364 W

25C

The amount of energy and money insulation will save during a 10-h period is simply determined from

Q saved ,total Q
saved t ( 0.85 29.094 kW)(10 h) 247.3 kWh

Money saved ( Energy saved)(Unit cost of energy) = ( 247.3 kWh )($0.09 / kWh ) $22.26

The

characteristic

length

in

this

case

is

the

outer

diameter

of

the

insulated

pipe,

Lc D 2tinsul 0.3 2tinsul where tinsul is the thickness of insulation in m. Then the problem can be

formulated for Ts and tinsul as follows:

Ra

g (T s T ) L3c

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003597 K -1 )[(Ts 273) K](0.3 2t insul ) 3

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(1.382 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2
2

8 / 27

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

0.6

1 0.559 / 0.7350 9 / 16

(0.7350)

8 / 27

k
0.02401 W/m.C
Nu
Nu
Lc
Lc
As D0 L (0.3 2t insul )(100 m)
h

The total rate of heat loss from the outer surface of the insulated pipe by convection and radiation becomes

Q Q conv Q rad hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 T surr 4 )

4364 hAs (T s 273) + (0.1) As (5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[Ts4 (30 273 K ) 4 ]
In steady operation, the heat lost by the side surfaces of the pipe must be equal to the heat lost from the
exposed surface of the insulation by convection and radiation, which must be equal to the heat conducted
through the insulation. Therefore,

2kL(Ttank Ts )
Q Q insulation
ln( Do / D )

4364 W

2 (0.035 W/m.C)(100 m)(298 Ts )K

ln[(0.3 2t insul ) / 0.3]

The solution of all of the equations above simultaneously using an equation solver gives Ts = 281.5 K =
8.5C and tinsul = 0.013 m = 1.3 cm.
Note that the film temperature is (8.5+0)/2 = 4.25C which is very close to the assumed value of
5C. Therefore, there is no need to repeat the calculations using properties at this new film temperature.

20-26

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-33E An industrial furnace that resembles a horizontal cylindrical enclosure whose end surfaces are well
insulated. The highest allowable surface temperature of the furnace and the annual cost of this loss to the
plant are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Air
T = 75F

Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film

temperature of (Ts+T)/2=(140+75)/2=107.5F are (Table A-22)

L = 13 ft

k 0.01546 Btu/h.ft. F

0.1851 10 3 ft 2 /s

Furnace

D = 8 ft

= 0.1

Pr 0.7249

1
1

0.001762 R -1
Tf
(107.5 460) R

Analysis The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 140F for the evaluation of the
properties and h. We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The
characteristic length in this case is the outer diameter of the furnace, Lc D 8 ft. Then,

g (Ts T ) D 3

Ra

Pr

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

(32.2 ft/s 2 )(0.001762 R -1 )(140 75 R )(8 ft ) 3

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(0.1851 10
2

8 / 27

ft /s )

0.387(3.996 1010 )1 / 6

0.6

1 0.559 / 0.7249 9 / 16

(0.7249) 3.996 1010

8 / 27

376.9

k
0.01546 Btu/h.ft.F
Nu
(376.9) 0.7287 Btu/h.ft 2 .F
D
8 ft
As DL (8 ft )(13 ft ) 326.7 ft 2
h

The total rate of heat generated in the furnace is

6

Q
gen (0.82)( 48 therms/h)(100,000 Btu/therm) 3.936 10 Btu/h

Noting that 1% of the heat generated can be dissipated by natural convection and radiation ,
(0.01)(3.936 10 6 Btu/h) 39,360 Btu/h
Q

The total rate of heat loss from the furnace by natural convection and radiation can be expressed as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

39,360 Btu/h (0.7287 Btu/h.ft 2 .F)(326.7 ft 2 )[Ts (75 460 R )]
(0.85)(326.7 m 2 )(0.1714 10 8 Btu/h.ft 2 .R 4 )[Ts 4 (75 460 R ) 4 ]
Its solution is

Ts 601.8 R 141.8F
which is very close to the assumed value. Therefore, there is no need to repeat calculations.
The total amount of heat loss and its cost during a-2800 hour period is

Q
Q
t (39,360 Btu/h )( 2800 h) 1.102 10 8 Btu
total

total

Cost (1.102 10 8 / 100,000 therm)($0.65 / therm) $716.4

20-27

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-34 A glass window is considered. The convection heat transfer coefficient on the inner side of the
window, the rate of total heat transfer through the window, and the combined natural convection and
radiation heat transfer coefficient on the outer surface of the window are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas
with constant properties. 3 The local atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.

Glass
Ts = 5C

Room
T = 25C

Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the film temperature of

(Ts+T)/2 = (5+25)/2 = 15C are (Table A-22)

= 0.9

L = 1.2 m

k 0.02476 W/m.C

1.471 10 5 m 2 /s

Outdoors
-5C

Pr 0.7323
1
1

0.003472 K -1
Tf
(15 273)K

Analysis (a) The characteristic length in this case is the height of the window, Lc L 1.2 m. Then,

Ra

g (T Ts ) L3c

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003472 K -1 )(25 5 K )(1.2 m ) 3

Pr

(1.471 10

Nu 0.825

8 / 27

9 / 16

0.492

Pr

m /s )

(0.7323) 3.986 10 9

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

0.825

0.387(3.986 10 9 ) 1 / 6

0.492

0.7323

9 / 16

189.7

8 / 27

k
0.02476 W/m.C
Nu
(189.7) 3.915 W/m 2 .C
L
1.2 m
As (1.2 m)(2 m) 2.4 m 2
h

(b) The sum of the natural convection and radiation heat transfer from the room to the window is

Q
hA (T T ) (3.915 W/m 2 .C)(2.4 m 2 )(25 5)C 187.9 W
convection

Q radiation As (Tsurr 4 Ts 4 )
(0.9)(2.4 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(25 273 K ) 4 (5 273 K ) 4 ] 234.3 W

Q
total Q convection Q radiation 187.9 234.3 422.2 W

(c) The outer surface temperature of the window can be determined from

kAs
Q total
(Ts ,i Ts ,o )
t

T s , o T s ,i

Q total t
(346 W )(0.006 m )
5C
3.65C
kAs
(0.78 W/m.C)(2.4 m 2 )

Then the combined natural convection and radiation heat transfer coefficient on the outer window surface becomes

or

Q
total hcombined As (T s ,o T ,o )

Q
346 W
total
hcombined

20.35 W/m 2 .C
2
As (Ts ,o T ,o )
(2.4 m )[3.65 (5)]C

and thus the thermal resistance R of a layer is proportional to the temperature drop
Note that T QR
across that layer. Therefore, the fraction of thermal resistance of the glass is equal to the ratio of the
temperature drop across the glass to the overall temperature difference,

R glass
R total

Tglass

TR total

5 3.65
0.045 (or 4.5%)
25 ( 5)

which is low. Thus it is reasonable to neglect the thermal resistance of the glass.

20-28

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-35 An insulated electric wire is exposed to calm air. The temperature at the interface of the wire and the
plastic insulation is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (50+30)/2 = 40C are (Table A-22)
k 0.02662 W/m.C

Ts

Air
T = 30C

= 0.9

1.702 10 5 m 2 /s

D = 6 mm

Pr 0.7255

1
1

0.003195 K -1
Tf
(40 273) K

Resistance
heater

L = 12 m

Analysis The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 50C for the evaluation of the
properties and h. We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The
characteristic length in this case is the outer diameter of the insulated wire Lc = D = 0.006 m. Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) D 3

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003195 K -1 )(50 30 K )(0.006 m ) 3

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(1.702 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2
2

8 / 27

0.387(339.3)1 / 6

0 .6

1 0.559 / 0.7255 9 / 16

8 / 27

(0.7255) 339.3

2.101

k
0.02662 W/m.C
Nu
(2.101) 9.327 W/m 2 .C
D
0.006 m
As DL (0.006 m)(12 m) 0.2262 m 2
h

The rate of heat generation, and thus the rate of heat transfer is
Q VI (8 V)(10 A) 80 W
Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be expressed as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (T s 4 Tsurr 4 )

80 W (9.327 W/m 2 .C)(0.226 m 2 )(T s 30)C
(0.9)(0.2262 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273) 4 (30 273 K ) 4 ]
Its solution is

T s 52.6C
which is close to the assumed value of 50C. Then the temperature at the interface of the wire and the
plastic cover in steady operation becomes

Q ln( D 2 / D1 )
(80 W ) ln(6 / 3)
2kL
(Ti T s ) Ti T s
52.6C +
57.5C
ln( D 2 / D1 )
2kL
2 (0.15 W/m.C)(12 m )

20-29

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-36 A steam pipe extended from one end of a plant to the other with no insulation on it. The rate of heat
loss from the steam pipe and the annual cost of those heat losses are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the film temperature of
(Ts+T)/2 = (170+20)/2 = 95C are (Table A-22)

Air
T = 20C

Ts = 170C
= 0.7

k 0.0306 W/m.C

2.252 10 5 m 2 /s

D =6.03 cm

Steam

Pr 0.7121

1
1

0.002717 K -1
Tf
(95 273)K

L = 60 m

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is the outer diameter of the pipe, Lc D 0.0603 m .
Then,

g (Ts T ) D 3

Ra

Pr

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.002717 K -1 )(170 20 K )(0.0603 m ) 3

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(2.252 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2
2

8 / 27

0.387(1.231 10 6 ) 1 / 6

0.6

1 0.559 / 0.7121 9 / 16

8 / 27

(0.7121) 1.231 10 6

15.42

k
0.0306 W/m.C
Nu
(15.42) 7.823 W/m 2 .C
D
0.0603 m
As DL (0.0603 m)(60 m) 11 .37 m 2
h

Then the total rate of heat transfer by natural convection and radiation becomes
4
hA (T T ) A (T 4 T
Q
)
s

surr

(7.823 W/m .C)(11.37 m )(170 20)C

(0.7)(11.37 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(170 273 K ) 4 (20 273 K ) 4 ]
27,388 W 27.4 kW
The total amount of gas consumption and its cost during a one-year period is

Q gas

t
Q
27.388 kJ/s 1 therm

(8760 h/yr 3600 s/h) 10,496 therms/yr

0.78
105,500 kJ
Cost (10,496 therms/yr)($0.538 / therm) $5647/yr

20-30

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-37
"GIVEN"
L=60 "[m]"
D=0.0603 "[m]"
T_s=170 "[C], parameter to be varied"
T_infinity=20 "[C]"
epsilon=0.7
T_surr=T_infinity
eta_furnace=0.78
UnitCost=0.538 "[$/therm]"
time=24*365 "[h]"
"PROPERTIES"
Fluid$='air'
k=Conductivity(Fluid$, T=T_film)
Pr=Prandtl(Fluid$, T=T_film)
rho=Density(Fluid$, T=T_film, P=101.3)
mu=Viscosity(Fluid$, T=T_film)
nu=mu/rho
beta=1/(T_film+273)
T_film=1/2*(T_s+T_infinity)
sigma=5.67E-8 "[W/m^2-K^4], Stefan-Boltzmann constant"
g=9.807 "[m/s^2], gravitational acceleration"
"ANALYSIS"
delta=D
Ra=(g*beta*(T_s-T_infinity)*delta^3)/nu^2*Pr
Nusselt=(0.6+(0.387*Ra^(1/6))/(1+(0.559/Pr)^(9/16))^(8/27))^2
h=k/delta*Nusselt
A=pi*D*L
Q_dot=h*A*(T_s-T_infinity)+epsilon*A*sigma*((T_s+273)^4-(T_surr+273)^4)
Q_gas=(Q_dot*time)/eta_furnace*Convert(h, s)*Convert(J, kJ)*Convert(kJ, therm)
Cost=Q_gas*UnitCost

20-31

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

Q [W]
11636
12594
13577
14585
15618
16676
17760
18869
20004
21166
22355
23570
24814
26085
27385
28713
30071
31459
32877
34327
35807

40000

8000

35000

7000

Cost

30000

Q [W]

Cost [$]
2399
2597
2799
3007
3220
3438
3661
3890
4124
4364
4609
4859
5116
5378
5646
5920
6200
6486
6778
7077
7382

6000

25000

5000

Q
20000

4000

15000

3000

10000
100

120

140

160

Ts [C]

20-32

180

2000
200

Cost [$]

Ts [C]
100
105
110
115
120
125
130
135
140
145
150
155
160
165
170
175
180
185
190
195
200

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-38 A steam pipe extended from one end of a plant to the other. It is proposed to insulate the steam pipe
for $750. The simple payback period of the insulation to pay for itself from the energy it saves are to be
determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (35+20)/2 = 27.5C are (Table A-22)

= 0.1

Air
T = 20C

k 0.0257 W/m.C

1.584 10 5 m 2 /s

D =16.03 cm

Steam

Pr 0.7289
1
1

0.003328 K -1
Tf
( 27.5 273) K

Insulation

L = 60 m
170C, = 0.1

Analysis Insulation will drop the outer surface temperature to a value close to the ambient temperature. The
solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the Rayleigh number
and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We start the solution
process by guessing the outer surface temperature to be 35C for the evaluation of the properties and h.
We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The characteristic
length in this case is the outer diameter of the insulated pipe, Lc D 0.1603 m. Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) D 3

Pr

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003328 K -1 )(35 20 K )(0.1603 m ) 3

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(1.584 10
2

8 / 27

m /s )

0.387(5.856 10 6 )1 / 6

0.6

1 0.559 / 0.7289 9 / 16

k
0.0257 W/m.C
Nu
(24.23) 3.884 W/m 2 .C
D
0.1603 m
As DL (0.1603 m)(60 m) 30.22 m 2

8 / 27

(0.7289) 5.856 10 6

24.23

Then the total rate of heat loss from the outer surface of the insulated pipe by convection and radiation
becomes
Q Q conv Q rad hAs (Ts T ) As (T s 4 T surr 4 )

(3.884 W/m 2 .C)(30.22 m 2 )(35 20)C

+ (0.1)(30.22 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(35 273 K ) 4 (20 273 K ) 4 ]
2039 W
In steady operation, the heat lost from the exposed surface of the insulation by convection and radiation must be equal
to the heat conducted through the insulation. This requirement gives the surface temperature to be

T Ts
Ts.i Ts
(170 Ts )C
Q Q insulation s.i

2039 W
ln( D 2 / D1 )
ln(16.03 / 6.03)
Rins
2 (0.038 W/m.C)(60 m )
2kL

It gives 30.8C for the surface temperature, which is somewhat different than the assumed value of 35C.
Repeating the calculations with other surface temperatures gives
1988 W
T s 34.3C and Q

Heat loss and its cost without insulation was determined in the Prob. 20-36 to be 27.388 kW and $5647.
Then the reduction in the heat losses becomes

Q
or 25.388/27.40 = 0.927 (92.7%)
saved 27.388 1.988 25.40 kW
Therefore, the money saved by insulation will be 0.921($5647/yr) = $5237/yr which will pay for the cost
of $750 in $750/($5237/yr)=0.1432 year = 52.3 days.

20-33

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-39 A circuit board containing square chips is mounted on a vertical wall in a room. The surface
temperature of the chips is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with
constant properties. 3 The local atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The heat
transfer from the back side of the circuit board is negligible.

PCB, Ts

= 0.7
1210.05 W

Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film

temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (35+25)/2 = 30C are (Table A-22)
L = 30 cm

k 0.02588 W/m.C

1.608 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7282
1
1

0.0033 K -1
Tf
(30 273) K

Air
T = 25C
Tsurr = 25C

Analysis The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 35C for the evaluation of the
properties and h. We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The
characteristic length in this case is the height of the board, Lc L 0.3 m. Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) L3

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.0033 K -1 )(35 25 K )(0.3 m ) 3

(1.608 10

Nu 0.825

0.492

Pr

8 / 27

m /s )

(0.7282) 2.463 10 7

0.387 Ra 1 / 6
9 / 16

0.825

0.387( 2.463 10 7 ) 1 / 6

0.492

0.7282

40.57

8 / 27

9 / 16

k
0.02588 W/m.C
Nu
( 40.57) 3.50 W/m 2 .C
L
0 .3 m
2
As (0.3 m) 0.09 m 2
h

Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be expressed as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(121 0.05) W (3.50 W/m 2 .C)(0.09 m 2 )(Ts 25)C
(0.7)(0.09 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273 K ) 4 (25 273 K ) 4 ]
Its solution is
Ts = 33.5C
which is sufficiently close to the assumed value in the evaluation of properties and h. Therefore, there is no
need to repeat calculations by reevaluating the properties and h at the new film temperature.

20-34

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-40 A circuit board containing square chips is positioned horizontally in a room. The surface temperature
of the chips is to be determined for two orientations.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The heat transfer from the back side of the circuit board is negligible.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (35+25)/2 = 30C are (Table A-22)
k 0.02588 W/m.C

PCB, Ts

1.608 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7282
1
1

0.0033 K -1
Tf
(30 273) K

= 0.7
1210.05 W

Air
T = 25C
Tsurr = 25C

L = 30 cm

Analysis The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 35C for the evaluation of the
properties and h. The characteristic length for both cases is determined from
A
(0.3 m) 2
Lc s
0.075 m.
p
2[(0.3 m) + (0.3 m)]
Then,

Ra

g (T s T ) L3c

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.00333 K -1 )(35 25 K )(0.075 m ) 3

(1.608 10

m /s )

(0.7282) 3.848 10 5

(a) Chips (hot surface) facing up:

Nu 0.54 Ra1 / 4 0.54(3.848 105 )1 / 4 13.45

k
0.02588 W/m.C
Nu
(13.45) 4.641 W/m 2 .C
Lc
0.075 m

As (0.3 m) 2 0.09 m 2
Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be expressed as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(121 0.05) W (4.641 W/m 2 .C)(0.09 m 2 )(Ts 25)C
(0.7)(0.09 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273 K ) 4 (25 273 K ) 4 ]
Its solution is
Ts = 32.5C
which is sufficiently close to the assumed value. Therefore, there is no need to repeat calculations.
(b) Chips (hot surface) facing up:
Nu 0.27 Ra1 / 4 0.27(3.848 105 )1 / 4 6.725

k
0.02588 W/m.C
Nu
(6.725) 2.321 W/m 2 .C
Lc
0.075 m

Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be expressed as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(121 0.05) W (2.321 W/m 2 .C)(0.09 m 2 )(Ts 25)C
(0.7)(0.09 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273 K ) 4 (25 273 K ) 4 ]
Its solution is
Ts = 35.0C
which is identical to the assumed value in the evaluation of properties and h. Therefore, there is no need to
repeat calculations.

20-35

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-41 It is proposed that the side surfaces of a cubic industrial furnace be insulated for $550 in order to
reduce the heat loss by 90 percent. The thickness of the insulation and the payback period of the insulation
to pay for itself from the energy it saves are to be determined.
Hot gases

Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with

constant properties. 3 The local atmospheric pressure is 1 atm.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the film temperature of
(Ts+T)/2 = (110+30)/2 = 70C are (Table A-22)

T = 30C

2m

k 0.02881 W/m.C

1.995 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7177
1
1

0.002915 K -1
Tf
(70 273) K

2m

Furnace
Ts = 110C
= 0.7

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is the height of the furnace, Lc L 2 m. Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) L3

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.002915 K -1 )(110 30 K )(2 m ) 3

(1.995 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2
2

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

Nu 0.825
9 / 16

0.492

Pr

(0.7177) 3.301 10 10

8 / 27

0.825

0.387(3.301 10 10 ) 1 / 6

0.492
1

0.7177

9 / 16

369.2

8 / 27

k
0.02881 W/m.C
Nu
(369.2) 5.318 W/m 2 .C
Lc
2m

As 4(2 m ) 2 16 m 2
Then the heat loss by combined natural convection and radiation becomes
4
Q hA (T T ) A (T 4 T
)
s

s
2

surr

(5.318 W/m .C)(16 m )(110 30)C

(0.7)(16 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(110 273 K ) 4 (30 273 K ) 4 ]
15,119 W
Noting that insulation will reduce the heat losses by 90%, the rate of heat loss after insulation will be

Q
0.9Q
0.9 15,119 W 13,607 W
saved

no insulation

Q
loss (1 0.9)Q no insulation 0.1 15,119 W 1512 W
The furnace operates continuously and thus 8760 h. Then the amount of energy and money the insulation
will save becomes

13.607 kJ/s

Energy saved Q
saved t
0.78

1 therm
(8760 3600 s/yr) 5215 therms/yr
105,500 kJ

Money saved (Energy saved)(Unit cost of energy) = (5215 therms)($0.55 / therm) $2868

Therefore, the money saved by insulation will pay for the cost of $550 in
550/($2868/yr)=0.1918 yr = 70 days.

20-36

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

Insulation will lower the outer surface temperature, the Rayleigh and Nusselt numbers, and thus
the convection heat transfer coefficient. For the evaluation of the heat transfer coefficient, we assume the
surface temperature in this case to be 50C. The properties of air at the film temperature of (Ts+T)/2 =
(50+30)/2 = 40C are (Table A-22)
k 0.02662 W/m.C

1.702 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7255

1
1

0.003195 K -1
Tf
(40 273) K

Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) L3

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003195 K -1 )(50 30 K )(2 m ) 3

(1.702 10

Nu 0.825

0.492
1

Pr

8 / 27

9 / 16

m /s )

(0.7255) 1.256 1010

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

0.825

0.387(1.256 1010 ) 1 / 6

0.492
1

0.7255

9 / 16

272.0

8 / 27

k
0.02662 W/m.C
Nu
(272.0) 3.620 W/m 2 .C
L
2m

As 4 (2 m)(2 2t insul ) m
The total rate of heat loss from the outer surface of the insulated furnace by convection and radiation
becomes

Q Q conv Q rad hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

1512 W (3.620 W/m 2 .C) A(Ts 30)C + (0.7) A(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273 K ) 4 (30 273 K )
In steady operation, the heat lost by the side surfaces of the pipe must be equal to the heat lost from the
exposed surface of the insulation by convection and radiation, which must be equal to the heat conducted
through the insulation. Therefore,

(T
Ts )
Q Q insulation kAs furnace
t ins

1512 W (0.038 W/m.C) As

(110 Ts )C
t insul

Solving the two equations above by trial-and error (or better yet, an equation solver) gives
Ts = 48.4C and tinsul = 0.0254 m = 2.54 cm

20-37

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-42 A cylindrical propane tank is exposed to calm ambient air. The propane is slowly vaporized due to a
crack developed at the top of the tank. The time it will take for the tank to empty is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 Radiation heat transfer is negligible.
Air
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the film temperature of
(Ts+T)/2 = (-42+25)/2 = -8.5C are (Table A-22)

T = 25C

k 0.02299 W/m.C

1.265 10 5 m 2 /s

Propane tank
0
Ts = -42C

D = 1.5 m

Pr 0.7383

1
1

0.003781 K -1
Tf
(8.5 273)K

L=4m

Analysis The tank gains heat through its cylindrical surface as well as its circular end surfaces. For
convenience, we take the heat transfer coefficient at the end surfaces of the tank to be the same as that of its
side surface. (The alternative is to treat the end surfaces as a vertical plate, but this will double the amount
of calculations without providing much improvement in accuracy since the area of the end surfaces is much
smaller and it is circular in shape rather than being rectangular). The characteristic length in this case is the
outer diameter of the tank, Lc D 1.5 m. Then,

Ra

g (T Ts ) D 3

Pr

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003781 K -1 )[(25 (42) K ](1.5 m ) 3

Nu 0.6

1 0.559 / Pr 9 / 16

(1.265 10
2

8 / 27

m /s )

0.387(3.869 1010 ) 1 / 6

0.6

1 0.559 / 0.7383 9 / 16

8 / 27

(0.7383) 3.869 10 10

374.1

k
0.02299 W/m.C
Nu
(374.1) 5.733 W/m 2 .C
D
1 .5 m
As DL 2D 2 / 4 (1.5 m )(4 m ) 2 (1.5 m) 2 / 4 22.38 m 2
h

and

hA (T T ) (5.733 W/m 2 .C)(22.38 m 2 )[(25 (42)]C 8598 W

Q
s

s
The total mass and the rate of evaporation of propane are
(1.5 m) 2
D 2
L (581 kg/m 3 )
(4 m) 4107 kg
4
4

Q
8.598 kJ/s

m

0.02023 kg/s
h fg
425 kJ/kg
m V

and it will take

t

4107 kg
m

202,996 s 56.4 hours

m
0.02023 kg/s

for the propane tank to empty.

20-38

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-43E The average surface temperature of a human head is to be determined when it is not covered.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The head can be approximated as a 12-in.-diameter sphere.
Properties The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 120F for the evaluation of the
properties and h. We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The
properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (120+77)/2 = 98.5F are
(Table A-22E)
Air
T = 77F

k 0.01525 Btu/h.ft.F

0.180 10 3 ft 2 /s
Pr 0.7262

Head
Q = 287 Btu/h

D = 12 in

1
1

0.001791 R -1
Tf
(98.5 460) R

= 0.9

Analysis The characteristic length for a spherical object is Lc = D = 12/24 = 0.5 ft. Then,

Ra

g (T s T ) D 3

Pr

(32.2 ft/s 2 )(0.001791 R -1 )(95 77 R )(0.5 ft ) 3

(0.180 10

0.589 Ra 1 / 4

Nu 2

0.469

Pr

4/9

9 / 16

ft /s )

0.589(6.943 10 6 ) 1 / 4

0.469

0.7262

4/9

9 / 16

(0.7262) 6.943 10 6

25.39

k
0.01525 Btu/h.ft. F
Nu
( 25.39) 0.7744 Btu/h.ft 2 .F
D
1 ft
As D 2 (0.5 ft ) 2 0.7854 ft 2
h

Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be written as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(287 / 4 Btu/h) (0.7744 Btu/h.ft 2 .F)(0.7854 ft 2 )(Ts 77)F
(0.9)(0.7854 m 2 )(0.1714 10 8 Btu/h.ft 2 .R 4 )[(Ts 460 R ) 4 (77 460 R ) 4 ]
Its solution is
Ts = 125.9F
which is sufficiently close to the assumed value in the evaluation of the properties and h. Therefore, there is
no need to repeat calculations.

20-39

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-44 The equilibrium temperature of a light glass bulb in a room is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The light bulb is approximated as an 8-cm-diameter sphere.
Properties The solution of this problem requires a trial-and-error approach since the determination of the
Rayleigh number and thus the Nusselt number depends on the surface temperature which is unknown. We
start the solution process by guessing the surface temperature to be 170C for the evaluation of the
properties and h. We will check the accuracy of this guess later and repeat the calculations if necessary. The
properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (170+25)/2 = 97.5C are
(Table A-22)
k 0.03077 W/m.C

Lamp
60 W
= 0.9

Air
T = 25C

2.279 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7116

1
1

0.002699 K -1
Tf
(97.5 273) K

D = 8 cm

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is Lc = D = 0.08 m. Then,

Ra

g (T s T ) D

Pr

-1

(9.81 m/s )(0.002699 K )(170 25 K )(0.08 m )

(2.279 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2

Light,
6W

(0.7116 )

2.694 10 6
Nu 2

0.589 Ra 1 / 4

1 0.469 / Pr

9 / 16 4 / 9

0.589(2.694 10 6 ) 1 / 4

1 0.469 / 0.7116

9 / 16 4 / 9

20.42

Then

k
0.03077 W/m.C
Nu
( 20.42) 7.854 W/m 2 .C
D
0.08 m
As D 2 (0.08 m) 2 0.02011 m 2
h

Considering both natural convection and radiation, the total rate of heat loss can be written as

Q hAs (Ts T ) As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(0.90 60) W (7.854 W/m 2 .C)(0.02011 m 2 )(Ts 25)C
(0.9)(0.02011 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 )[(Ts 273) 4 (25 273 K ) 4 ]
Its solution is
Ts = 169.4C
which is sufficiently close to the value assumed in the evaluation of properties and h. Therefore, there is no
need to repeat calculations.

20-40

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-45 A vertically oriented cylindrical hot water tank is located in a bathroom. The rate of heat loss from
the tank by natural convection and radiation is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The temperature of the outer surface of the tank is constant.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the film temperature
of (Ts+T)/2 = (44+20)/2 = 32C are (Table A-22)
k 0.02603 W/m.C
Air
T = 20C

1.627 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7276
1
1

0.003279 K -1
Tf
(32 273) K

Tank
Ts = 44C

L = 1.1 m

= 0.4

D = 0.4 m

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is the height of the cylinder,

Lc L 1.1 m. Then,
Gr

g (Ts T ) L3
2

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003279 K -1 )( 44 20 K )(1.1 m ) 3

(1.627 10

m /s )

3.883 10 9

A vertical cylinder can be treated as a vertical plate when

35 L

D ( 0.4 m)

Gr

1/4

35(1.1 m)

0.1542 m

(3.883 10 9 ) 1 / 4

which is satisfied. That is, the Nusselt number relation for a vertical plate can be used for the side surfaces.
For the top and bottom surfaces we use the relevant Nusselt number relations. First, for the side surfaces,
Ra GrPr (3.883 10 9 )(0.7276 ) 2.825 10 9

Nu 0.825

0.387 Ra 1 / 6

0.492
1

Pr

8 / 27

9 / 16

0.825

0.387( 2.825 10 9 ) 1 / 6

0.492
1

0.7276

170.2

8 / 27

9 / 16

k
0.02603 W/m.C
Nu
(170.2) 4.027 W/m 2 .C
L
1.1 m
As DL (0.4 m )(1.1 m ) 1.382 m 2
h

2
2

Q
side hAs (T s T ) ( 4.027 W/m .C)(1.382 m )( 44 20)C 133.6 W

For the top surface,

As
D 2 / 4 D 0.4 m

0.1 m
p
D
4
4

Lc

Ra

g (Ts T ) L3c

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003279 K -1 )(44 20 K )(0.1 m ) 3

(1.627 10

m /s )

(0.7276) 2.123 10 6

Nu 0.54Ra 1 / 4 0.54(2.123 10 6 )1 / 4 20.61

k
0.02603 W/m.C
Nu
(20.61) 5.365 W/m 2 .C
Lc
0.1 m

As D 2 / 4 (0.4 m ) 2 / 4 0.1257 m 2
2
2

Q
top hAs (T s T ) (5.365 W/m .C )(0.1257 m )( 44 20 )C 16.2 W

For the bottom surface,

Nu 0.27 Ra 1 / 4 0.27( 2.123 10 6 ) 1 / 4 10.31

20-41

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

k
0.02603 W/m.C
Nu
(10.31) 2.683 W/m 2 .C
Lc
0.1 m

2
2

Q
bottom hAs (T s T ) ( 2.683 W/m .C)(0.1257 m )( 44 20)C 8.1 W

The total heat loss by natural convection is

Q
conv Qside Q top Q bottom 133.6 16.2 8.1 157.9 W

The radiation heat loss from the tank is

Q rad As (Ts 4 Tsurr 4 )

(0.4 )(1.382 0.1257 0.1257 m 2 )(5.67 10 8 W/m 2 .K 4 ) (44 273 K ) 4 (20 273 K ) 4
101.1 W

20-42

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-46 A rectangular container filled with cold water is gaining heat from its surroundings by natural
convection and radiation. The water temperature in the container after a 3 hours and the average rate of heat
transfer are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The heat transfer coefficient at the top and bottom surfaces is the same as
that on the side surfaces.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (10+24)/2 = 17C are (Table A-22)
k 0.02491 W/m.C
Container
Ts

1.489 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7317

= 0.6

Air
T = 24C

1
1

0.003448 K -1
Tf
(17 273)K

The properties of water at 2C are (Table A-7)

1000 kg/m 3 and C p 4214 J/kg.C

Analysis We first evaluate the heat transfer coefficient on the side surfaces. The characteristic length in this
case is the height of the container,

Lc L 0.28 m. Then,
Ra

g (T Ts ) L3

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.003448 K -1 )(24 10 K )(0.28 m ) 3

(1.489 10

Nu 0.825

0.492

Pr

8 / 27

m /s )

(0.7317) 1.133 10 7

0.387 Ra 1 / 6
9 / 16

0.825

0.387(1.133 10 7 ) 1 / 6

0.492

0.7317

30.52

8 / 27

9 / 16

k
0.02491 W/m.C
Nu
(30.52) 4.224 W/m 2 .C
L
0.28 m

As 2(0.28 0.18 0.28 0.18 0.18 0.18) = 0.2664 m 2

The rate of heat transfer can be expressed as

T T2

T1 T2
4
Q Q conv Q rad hAs T 1
As Tsurr

2
2

275 T2
( 4.224 W/m 2 .C)(0.2664 m 2 ) 297 -

(0.6)(0.2664 m 2 )(5.67 10 -8 W/m 2 .K 4 ) 297 4

(Eq. 1)

275 T2

where (T1+ T2)/2 is the average temperature of water (or the container surface). The mass of water in the
container is
m V (1000 kg/m 3 )(0.28 0.18 0.18)m 3 9.072 kg

Then the amount of heat transfer to the water is

Q mC p (T2 T1 ) (9.072 kg)(4214 J/kg.C)(T2 - 275)C = 38,229(T2 - 275)

The average rate of heat transfer can be expressed as

20-43

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

Q 38,229(T2 - 275)
Q

3.53976(T2 - 275)
t
3 3600 s

(Eq. 2)

Setting Eq. 1 and Eq. 2 equal to each other, we obtain the final water temperature.

T2 284.7 K 11.7C
We could repeat the solution using air properties at the new film temperature using this value to increase
the accuracy. However, this would only affect the heat transfer value somewhat, which would not have
significant effect on the final water temperature. The average rate of heat transfer can be determined from
Eq. 2
3.53976(11.7 - 2) 34.3 W
Q

20-44

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-47
"GIVEN"
height=0.28 "[m]"
L=0.18 "[m]"
w=0.18 "[m]"
T_infinity=24 "[C]"
T_w1=2 "[C]"
epsilon=0.6
T_surr=T_infinity
"time=3 [h], parameter to be varied"
"PROPERTIES"
Fluid$='air'
k=Conductivity(Fluid$, T=T_film)
Pr=Prandtl(Fluid$, T=T_film)
rho=Density(Fluid$, T=T_film, P=101.3)
mu=Viscosity(Fluid$, T=T_film)
nu=mu/rho
beta=1/(T_film+273)
T_film=1/2*(T_w_ave+T_infinity)
T_w_ave=1/2*(T_w1+T_w2)
rho_w=Density(water, T=T_w_ave, P=101.3)
C_p_w=CP(water, T=T_w_ave, P=101.3)*Convert(kJ/kg-C, J/kg-C)
sigma=5.67E-8 "[W/m^2-K^4], Stefan-Boltzmann constant"
g=9.807 "[m/s^2], gravitational acceleration"
"ANALYSIS"
delta=height
Ra=(g*beta*(T_infinity-T_w_ave)*delta^3)/nu^2*Pr
Nusselt=0.59*Ra^0.25
h=k/delta*Nusselt
A=2*(height*L+height*w+w*L)
Q_dot=h*A*(T_infinity-T_w_ave)+epsilon*A*sigma*((T_surr+273)^4(T_w_ave+273)^4)
m_w=rho_w*V_w
V_w=height*L*w
Q=m_w*C_p_w*(T_w2-T_w1)
Q_dot=Q/(time*Convert(h, s))

20-45

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

time [h]
0.5
1
1.5
2
2.5
3
3.5
4
4.5
5
5.5
6
6.5
7
7.5
8
8.5
9
9.5
10

Tw2 [C]
4.013
5.837
7.496
9.013
10.41
11.69
12.88
13.98
15
15.96
16.85
17.69
18.48
19.22
19.92
20.59
21.21
21.81
22.37
22.91

25

20.5

Tw2 [C]

16

11.5

2.5
0

time [h]

20-46

10

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-48 A room is to be heated by a cylindrical coal-burning stove. The surface temperature of the stove and
the amount of coal burned during a 30-day-period are to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 Air is an ideal gas with constant properties. 3 The local
atmospheric pressure is 1 atm. 4 The temperature of the outer surface of the stove is constant. 5 The heat
transfer from the bottom surface is negligible. 6 The heat transfer coefficient at the top surface is the same
as that on the side surface.
Properties The properties of air at 1 atm and the anticipated film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (130+24)/2 = 77C are (Table A-1)
k 0.02931 W/m.C
Air
T = 24C

2.066 10 5 m 2 /s
Pr 0.7161
1
1

0.002857 K -1
Tf
(77 273)K

Stove
Ts

L =0.7 m

= 0.85

D = 0.32 m

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is the height of the cylindir,

Lc L 0.7 m. Then,
Gr

g (T s T ) L3

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.002857 K -1 )(130 24 K )(0.70 m ) 3

( 2.066 10 5 m 2 /s ) 2

2.387 10 9

A vertical cylinder can be treated as a vertical plate when

D ( 0.32 m)

35L
Gr

1/4

35(0.7 m)
(2.387 10 9 ) 1 / 4

0.1108 m

which is satisfied. That is, the Nusselt number relation for a vertical plate can be used for side surfaces.
Ra GrPr ( 2.387 10 9 )(0.7161) 1.709 10 9

Nu 0.825

0.492

Pr

8 / 27

9 / 16

0.387Ra 1 / 6

0.825

0.387(1.709 10 9 ) 1 / 6
0.492

0.7161

145.2

8 / 27

9 / 16

k
0.02931 W/m.C
Nu
(145.2) 6.080 W/m 2 .C
L
0 .7 m
As DL D 2 / 4 (0.32 m )(0.7 m ) (0.32 m ) 2 / 4 0.7841 m 2
h

Then the surface temperature of the stove is determined from

Q Q conv Q rad hAs (Ts T ) As (T s 4 Tsurr 4 )

1200 W (6.080 W/m 2 .C)(0.7841 m 2 )(T s 297) (0.85)(0.7841 m 2 )(5.67 10 -8 W/m 2 .K 4 )(Ts 4 29
T s 400.6 K 127.6C
The amount of coal used is determined from
Q Q t (1.2 kJ/s)(14 h/day 3600 s/h) = 60,480 kJ
Q / (60,480 kJ)/0.65
m coal

3.102 kg
HV
30,000 kJ/kg

20-47

Chapter 20 Natural Convection

20-49 Water in a tank is to be heated by a spherical heater. The heating time is to be determined.
Assumptions 1 Steady operating conditions exist. 2 The temperature of the outer surface of the sphere is
constant.
Properties Using the average temperature for water (15+45)/2=30
as the fluid temperature, the properties of water at the film
temperature of (Ts+T)/2 = (85+30)/2 = 57.5C are (Table A-15)
Resistance
heater
Ts = 85C
D = 6 cm

k 0.6515 W/m.C

0.474 10 6 m 2 /s
Pr 3.12

Water
T,ave = 30C

0.501 10 3 K -1

D = 6 cm

Also, the properties of water at 30C are (Table A-15)

996 kg/m 3 and C p 4178 J/kg.C

Analysis The characteristic length in this case is Lc = D = 0.06 m. Then,

Ra

g (Ts T ) D 3

Nu 2

Pr

(9.81 m/s 2 )(0.501 10 3 K -1 )(85 30 K )(0.06 m ) 3

(0.474 10

0.589 Ra 1 / 4

1 0.469 / Pr

9 / 16 4 / 9

m /s )

0.589(8.108 10 8 ) 1 / 4

1 0.469 / 3.12

9 / 16 4 / 9

(3.12) 8.108 10 8

89.14

k
0.6515 W/m.C
Nu
(89.14 ) 967.9 W/m 2 .C
D
0.06 m
As D 2 (0.06 m) 2 0.01131 m 2
h

The rate of heat transfer by convection is

2
2

Q
conv hAs (T s T ) (967.9 W/m .C)(0.01131 m )(85 30) 602.1 W
The mass of water in the container is
m V (996 kg/m 3 )(0.040 m 3 ) 39.84 kg

The amount of heat transfer to the water is

Q mC p (T2 T1 ) (39.84 kg)(4178 J/kg.C)(45 - 15)C = 4.994 10 6 J

Then the time the heater should be on becomes

t

Q
4.994 10 6 J

8294 s 2.304 hours

602.1 J/s
Q

20-48