CONDUCTION

Fourier Law of Conduction

Rate of heat conduction is proportional to the area measured normal to the direction of
heat flow and to the temperature gradient in that direction.

dT
Q  A
dx
dT
Q   kA
dx

Where

A – Area in m2

dT
 Temperature gradient in k/m
dx

k – Thermal conductivity in W/mK

Thermal conductivity is defined as the ability of a substance to conduct heat.

[The negative sign indicates that the heat flows in a direction along which there is a
decrease in temperature]

GENERAL HEAT CONDUCTION EQUATION IN CARTESIAN COORDINATES

Consider a small rectangular element of sides dx, dy and dz as shown in Fig. 1.1.

The energy balance of this rectangular element is obtained from first law of
thermodynamics.

Net heat conducted into Heat generated Heat stored

element form all the + within the = stored in the ..(1.1)

coordinate directions element element

Net heat conducted into element from all the coordinate directions

Let q x be the heat flux in a direction of face ABCD and q x + d x be the heat flux in a
direction of face EFGH.

The rate of heat flow into the element in x direction through the face ABCD is

T
Q x  q x dydz   k x dydz ….. (1.2)
x

Where k – Thermal conductivity, W/mK

T
 Temperature gradient
x

The rate of heat flow out of the element in x direction through the face EFGH is


Q x  d x  Q x  Q x dx
x
T   T 
 k x dydz    kx dydz  dx
x x  x 

T   T 
Q x  d x  k x dydz  kx dxdydz
x x  x 
Subtracting (1.2) – (1.3)

T  T   T  
Q x  d  x  dx    k x dydz   k x dydz   kx  dxdydz 
x  x ax  x  

T T   T 
 k x dydz  k x dydz  kx dx dy dz
x x x  x 

  T 
 Q x  Q x  dx   kx dxdydz …. (1.4)
x  x 

Similarly

  T 
Q y  d  y  dy   …. (1.5)
y  y 
ky dxdydz

  T 
QZ  q  y  dy   …. (1.6)
y  y 
ky dxdydz

ADDING (1.4) + (1.5) + (1.6)

  T    T    T 
Net heat conducted  kx  dxdydz   ky  dxdydz  k z dx dy dz
x  x  y  y  z  z 

   T    T    T  
  k x   y k y y   z k z z   dx dy dz
 x  x     

Net heat conducted into element from all the coordinate directions

   T    T    T  
  k x   y k y y   z k z z   dx dy dz
 x  x     

Heat Stored in the element

We know that,

Heat stored in the Mass of the Specific heat of Rise in

element = element  Heat of the  temperature

element of element
 T
 m  Cp 
t

T
   dx dy dz  C p 
t

[ Mass = Density  Volume ]

T ….. (1.9)
Heat stored in the element  C p dx dy dz
t

Heat Stored within the element

Heat generated within the element is given by

Q = q dx d y d z ….. (1.9)

Substituting equation (1.7), (1.8) and (1.9) in equation (1.1)

   T    T    T   T
(1.1) ==>  k x   k y   k z   dx dy dz + q dx dy dz  C p dx dy dz
 x  x  y  y  z  z   t

  T    T      T
==>  kx    ky   kz   q  C p
x  x  y  y  z  z  t

Considering the material is isotropic. So,

kx = ky = kz = k = constant.

  2T  2T  2T  T
==>  2  2  2  k + q  C p
 x y z  t

Divided by k,

 2 T  2 T  2 T q  C p T
   
x 2 y 2 z 2 k k t

 2 T  2 T  2 T q 1 T
    ….. (1.10)
x 2 y 2 z 2 k  t
It is a general three dimensional heat conduction equation in Cartesian coordinates

k
Where,   Thermal diffusivity   m2 / s
C p

Thermal diffusivity is nothing but how fast heat is diffused through a material during
changes of temperature with time.

Case (i): No heat sources

In the absence of internal heat generation, equation (1.10) reduces to

 2 T  2 T  2 T 1 T
   ….. (1.11)
 x 2 y 2  z 2  t

This equation is known as diffusion equation (or) Fourier‟s equation.

Case (ii): Steady state conditions

T
In steady state condition, the temperature does not change with time. So,  0 . The
t
heat conduction equation (1.10) reduces to

 2T  2T  2T q
   0 ….. (1.12)
x 2 y 2 z 2 k

(or)

q
V 2T  0
k

This equation is known as known as Poisson‟s equation.

In the absence of internal heat generation, equation (1.12) becomes:

 2T  2T  2T
  0 …… (1.13)
x 2 y 2 z 2

(or)

V 2T  0

This equation is known as Laplace equation.

Case (iii): One dimensional steady state heat conduction

If the temperature varies only in the x direction, the equation (1.10) reduces to

 2T q
 0 …… (1.14)
x 2 k

In the absence of internal heat generation, equation (1.14) becomes:

 2T
0 …… (1.15)
x 2

Case (iv): Two dimensional steady state heat conduction

If the temperature varies only in the x and y direction, the equation (1.10) becomes:

 2T  2T q
  0 ….. (1.16)
 x 2 y 2 k

In the absence of internal heat generation, equation (1.16) reduces to

 2T  2T
 0 … .(1.17)
x 2 y 2

Case (v): Unsteady state, one dimensional, without internal heat generation

T
In unsteady state, the temperature changes with time, i.e.,  0 . So, the general conduction
t
equation (1.10) reduces to

 2T 1 T
 …… (1.18)
x 2  t

GENERAL HEAT CONDUCTION EQUATION IN CYLINDRICAL CO-ORDINATES

The general heat conduction equation in Cartesian coordinates derived in the previous
section is used for solids with rectangular boundaries like squares, cubes, slabs etc. But, the
Cartesian coordinate system is not applicable for the solids like cylinders, cones, spheres etc. for
cylindrical solids, a cylindrical coordinate system is used.

Consider a small cylindrical element of sides dr, d  and dz as shown in fig. 1.2.
The volume of the element dv = r d  dr dz.

Let us assume that thermal conductivity k, Specific heat Cp and density  are constant.

The energy balance of this cylindrical element is obtained from first law of thermodynamics.

Net heat conducted into Heat generated Heat stored

element form all the + within the = stored in the ..(1.19)

coordinate directions element element

Net heat conducted into element from all the co-ordinate directions

Heat entering in the element through (r,  ) plane in time d 

T
Q z   k rd dr  d
z

Heat leaving from the element through (r,  ) plane in time d  .


Q z  dz  Q z  Q z dz
z

Net heat conducted into the element through (r,  ) plane in time dӨ.
  Q z  Q z  dz

 Q z dz
z
   T  
  k rd  .dr .  d  dz
z   z  
  2T 
 k  dr .rd  .dz d
 z 2 

  2T 
Net heat conducted through (r,  ) plane =  z 2  dr .rd  .dz d ….. (1.20)

Heat entering in the element through (  , z) plane in time d  .

 Q r  Q r  dr

 Q r dr
r
   T  
    k rd  .dz .  d  dr
r   r  
  T 
 k drd  .dz .  r. r  d
r  
  2 T 1 T 
 k dr .rd  .dz  2   d
 r r r 

  2T 1 T 
Net heat conducted through (  , z) plane  k dr .rd  .dz    d
 r
2
r r 

Heat entering in the element through (z, r) plane in time d  .

T
Q  k dr .dz  d
r

Heat leaving from the element through (z, r) plane in time d  .


Q  d   Q  Q rd 
r
Net heat conducted into the element through (z, r) plane in time d  .


Q  d   d   Q rd 
r 
  T 

r    k drdz . r d  rd 
 
  1 T 
k
  r   drd dz d
 
 1  2T 
 k 2 2 
drrd dz d
 r   

Net heat conducted into element from all the co-ordinate directions

 2T
k (dr rd  dz) d 
z 2

  2T 1 T 
k drrd dz  2   d
 r r r 
 1  2T 
k 2 
drrd dz d
 r 2  

[Adding equation 1.20, 1.21 and 1.22]

  2T  2T 1 T 1  2T 
 k drrd dz d  2  2   2 
 z r r r r  2 
  2T 1 T 1  2T  2T 
 k drrd dz d  2   2  2
  r r r r  2
z 

Net heat conducted into element from all the co-ordinate directions

  2T 1 T 1  2T  2T 
 k drrd dz d  2   2  
 r r r r  2 z 2  ….. (1.23)
Heat generated within the element

Total heat generated within the element is given by

Q =q (dr rd  dz) d  …… (1.24)

Heat stored in the element

The increase in internal energy of the element is equal to the net heat stored in the
element.

Increase in internal energy

= Net heat stored in the element

T
=  ( dr rd  dz) C p  d ……. (1.25)


Substituting equation (1.23). (1.24) and (1.25) in (1.19)

  2T 1 T 1  2T  2T  T
1.19   k (dr rd  dz)d   2   2  2   q (dr rd  dz) C p  d
 r r r r  2
z  

T
=  (dr rd  dz) C p  d


Divided by (dr rd  dz) d 

  2T 1 T 1  2T  2T  T
 k  2   2  2   q   .C p
 r r r r  2
z  

…… (1.26)
1  2T  2T  q C p T
==>
  2T 1 T
 2     
 r r r r 2  2 z 2  k k 

It is a general three dimensional heat conduction equation in cylindrical co-ordinates.

 2T 1 T 1  2T  2T q 1 T  k 
==>         
r 2 r r r 2  2 z 2 k    C p 

If the flow is steady, one dimensional and no heat generation, equation (1.26) becomes:
  2T 1 T
 0 ……. (1.27)
r 2 r r

(or)

1 d  T 
==>  r. 0 …….. (1.28)
r dr  r 

CONDUCTION OF HEAT THROUGH A SLAB OR PLANE WALL

Consider a slab of uniform thermal conductivity k, thickness L, with inner temperature

T1, and outer temperature T2.

Let us consider a small elemental area of thickness „d x ‟.

From Fourier law of conduction, we know that,

dT
Q   kA
dx
 Q.dx   kAdT

Integrating the above equation between the limits of 0 to L and T1 to T2.

L T2

  Qdx    kAdT

0 T1

L T2

 Q  dx   kA  dT
0 T1

 Qx    kA AT12

L T
0

 QL  0   kAT2  T1 

 Q  L  kAT1  T2 

 Q 
kA
T1  T2  ….. (1.29)
L
 T1  T2
 Q 
L
kA ……. (1.30)
Toverall
 Q 
R

Where

T  T1  T2

L
R  Thermal resistance of slab.
kA

CONDUCTION OF HEAT THROUGH HOLLOW CYLINDER

Consider a hollow cylinder inner radius r1, outer radius r2, inner temperature T1, outer
temperature T2 and thermal conductivity k.

Let us consider a small elemental area of thickness “dr”

From Fourier law of conduction, we know that,

dT
Q   kA
dr

Area of a cylinder is 2rL

A  2rL

So,
 dT
Q   k 2rL
dr
dr
 Q    k 2LdT
r

Integrating the above equation from r1 to r2 and T1 to T2.

r2 2 T
dr
 Q    k 2L  dT
r1
r T1

 QInr r12   k 2LR T12

r T

 QInr2  Inr1    k 2LT2  T1 

 r2 
 QIn   2Lk T1  T2 
 r1 

2Lk T1  T2 
 Q  …… (1.31)
r 
In 2 
 r1 

T1  T2
 Q 
1 r 
In 2 
2Lk  r1 

Toverall
 Q  ….. (1.32)
R

Where

T  T1  T2

1 r 
R In 2   Thermal resistance of the hollow cylinder.
2Lk  r1 

CONDUCTION OF HEAT THROUGH HOLLOW SPHERE

Consider a hollow sphere of inner radius r1, outer radius r2, inner temperature T1, outer
temperature T2 and thermal conductivity k.
Let us consider a small elemental area of thickness „dr‟. From Fourier law of heat conduction, we
know that

dT
Q   kA
dr

Area of sphere is 4r 2

A  4r 2
dT ……. (1.33)
Q   k 4r 2
dr

dr
 Q    k  4dT
r2

Integrating on both sides

r2 T
2
dr
 Q    T 4kdT
r1 r2 1

r2 2 T
dr
 Q    4k T dT
r1 r2 1

r2
  1
 Q    4k T T12
T

 r  r1
1 1 
 Q     4k T2  T1 
 r1 r2 
 r 2  r1 
 Q  1 2 
 4k T1  T2 
r  r 

4k T1  T2 
 Q  …… (1.34)
r2  r1
r1 r2
 T1  T2
 Q 
r2  r1
4k r1 r2 

Toveral l
 Q  …….. (1.35)
R

Where

T  T1  T2

r2  r1
R  Thermal resistance of hollow sphere.
4k r1 r2 

Newton’s Law of Cooling

Heat transfer by convection is given by Newton law of cooling

Q  hATs  T  ……. (1.36)

Where

A - Area exposed to heat transfer in m2

h – Heat transfer co-efficient in W/m2K

Ts – Temperature of the surface in K

T  - Temperature of the fluid in K.

6. Heat Transfer Through a Composite Plane Wall with Inside and Outside Convection

Consider a composite wall of thickness L1, L2 and L3 having thermal conductivity k1, k2
and k3 respectively. It is assumed that the interior and exterior surface of the system are
subjected to convection at mean temperatures Ta and Tb with heat transfer co-efficient ha and hb
respectively. Within the composite wall, the slabs are subjected to conduction.
From Newton‟s law of cooling, we know that,

Heat transfer by convection at side A is

Q  haATa  T1  [From equn. (1.36)] …… (1.37)

Heat transfer by conduction at slab (1) is

k1 AT1  T2 
Q [From equn. (1.29)] …….. (1.38)
L1

Heat transfer by conduction at slab (2) is

k 2 AT2  T1 
Q …….. (1.39)
L2

Similarly at slab (3) is

k 3 AT3  T4 
Q ……… (1.40)
L3

Heat transfer by convection at side B is

Q  hbAT4  Tb  ……… (1.41)

We know that,
 1
Ta  T1  Q  [From equn. (1.37)]
ha A

L1
T1  T2  Q  [ From equn. (1.38)]
k1 A

L2
T2  T3  Q  [From equn. (1.39)]
k2 A

L3
T3  T4  Q  [From equn. (1.40)]
k3 A

1
T4  Tb  Q  [From equn. (1.410]
hb A

Adding both sides of the above equations

 1 L L L 1 
 Ta  Tb  Q   1  2  3  
 ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A 
Ta  Tb
 Q 
1 L L L 1
 1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A

Toverall
 Q  …….. (1.42)
R

Where

T  Ta  Tb

Thermal resistance, R  Ra  R1  R2  R3  Rb

1 L L L 1
=  1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A

We know that,
 1
R
UA
Ta  Tb
 Q 
1
UA

 Q  UATa  Tb  …… (1.43)

Where

„U‟ is the overall heat transfer co-efficient (W/m2K).

HEAT TRANSFER THROUGH COMPOSITE PIPES OR CYLINDERS WITH INSIDE

AND OUTSIDE CONVECTION

A hot fluid at a temperature Ta, with heat transfer co-efficient ha, flowing through a pipe is
separated by two layers from atmosphere as shown in fig. 1.7. Let the thermal conductivities be
k1 and k2. On the outside surface heat is being transferred to a cold fluid at a temperature Tb with
heat transfer co-efficient hb.

Heat transfer by convection at side A is

Q  ha ATa  T1  [From equn. No. (1.36)]

Here Area, A = 2r1 L

So,

Q  2r1 Lha Ta  T1  …….. (1.44)

Heat transfer by conduction at section 1 is

2Lk1 T1  T2 
Q ……… (1.45)
r 
In 2 
 r1 

[From equn. (1.310]

Similarly

At section 2

2Lk 2 T2  T3 
Q ……….. (1.46)
r 
In 3 
 r2 

Heat transfer by convection at side B is

Q  hbAT3  Tb 
………… (1.47)
Q  2r 3Lhb T3  Tb 

We know that,

Q
Ta  T1  [From equn. (1.440]
2Lr1 ha

Q r 
T1  T2  In 2  [From equn. (1.45)]
2Lk1  r1 

Q r 
T2  T3  In 3  [From equn. (1.46)]
2Lk 2  r2 

Q
T3  Tb  [From equn. (1.47)]
2Lr3 hb

Adding both sides of the above equations

 Q  1 Inr2 / r1  Inr3 / r2  1 
Ta  T 1      
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 
2LTa  Tb 
 Q 
1 Inr2 / r1  Inr3 / r2  1
  
ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3
Ta  Tb 
 Q 
1  1 Inr2 / r1  Inr3 / r2  1 
   
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 

Toverall
Q
R

Where

1  1 Inr2 / r1  Inr3 / r2  1 
R     
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 

Toverall  Ta  Tb

We know that,

1
R
UA
Ta  Tb
 Q 
1
UA

Q  UATa  Tb  ……… (1.49)

Where

U = Overall heat transfer co-efficient, W/m2K

A = Area = 2r3 L

CRITICAL RADIUS OF INSULATION

Addition of insulating material on a surface does not reduce the amount of heat transfer
rate always. In fact under certain circumstances it actually increases the heat loss up to certain
thickness of insulation. The radius of insulation for which the heat transfer is maximum is called
critical radius of insulation and the corresponding thickness is called critical thickness. If the
thickness is further increased, the heat loss will be reduced.
Critical Radius of Insulation For A Cylinder

Consider a cylinder having thermal conductivity k. Let r1 and r0 inner and outer radii of
insulation.

Ti  T
Heat transfer, Q = [From equn. No. (1.31)]
r
In 0
r1
2kL

Considering h be the outside heat transfer co-efficient.

Ti  T
Q 
r 
In 0 
 r1 
r1 1

2kL A0 h

Here A0 = 2r0 L
 Ti  T
 Q 
r 
In 0 
 r1  1

2kL 2 0 Lh

To find the critical radius of insulation, differentiate Q with respect to r0 and equate it to
zero.

 1 1 
0  Ti  T   2 
dQ  2kLr0 2hLr0 
 
dr0 1 r  1
In 0  
2kL  r1  2hLr0

Since Ti  T   0

1 1
  0
2kLr0 2hLr02

k
 r0   rc ……. (1.50)
h

HEAT CONDUCTION WITH HEAT GENERATION

In many practical cases, there is a heat generation within the system. Typical examples
are

 Electric coils
 Resistance heater
 Nuclear reactor
 Combustion of fuel in the fuel bed of boiler furnaces.

PLANE WALL WITH INTERNAL HEAT GENERATION

Consider a slab of thickness L, thermal conductivity k, as shown in fig. 1.10.

Consider a small elemental area of thickness d x .

From Fourier‟s law of conduction, we know that

dT
Heat transfer at x, Qx   kA …… (1.51)
dx

Heat conducted out at x +d x

dT d 2T
Q x  dx   kA  kA 2 dx …… (1.52)
dx dx

Heat generated within d x

Q g  qAdx …….. (1.53)

We know that,

Q x  Q g  Q x  dx
dT dT d 2T
  kA  qAdx   kA  kA 2 dx
dx dx dx
2
d T
 qAdx   kA 2
dx
d 2T
 kA  qAdx  0
dx 2

d 2T q
  dx  0 ………. (1.54)
dx 2 k

Integrating above equation

d 2T q
  2
  dx  0
(1.54) dx k ……….. (1.55)
dT q
  x  C1
dx k
Integrating

dT q
 
dx k 
 x   C1
(1.55)
q x2
 T   C1 x  C 2
k 2

1 q 2 ……… (1.56)
 T   x  C1 x  C 2
2 k

The temperature on the two faces of the slab (Tw) is the same because it loses it loses the
same amount of heat by convection on two sides.

Apply boundary conditions; C1 = 0

1q 2
(1.56)  T   x  C2
2k

L
Apply T  Tw , x 
2
2
1 qL
 Tw      C2
2 k2
2
1 qL
C 2  Tw   
2 k2

qL2
C 2  Tw 
8k

Substituting C1 and C2 value in equation (1.56)

1 q 2 qL2
T  x  0  Tw 
2k 8k

 T  Tw 
q
8k

L2  4 x 2  ……. (1.57)

The maximum temperature Tmax (at the centre) is obtained by putting x  0 in Equation
(1.57).
 qL2 …….. (1.58)
Tmax  Tw 
8k

Heat flow rate

1
Q qAL
2

Heat transfer by convection

Q  hATw  T 

qAL  hATw  T 
1
 Q 
2
1
 qAL  hATW  hAT
2
1
 hATw  hAT  qAL
2
qL
 Tw  T 
2h

Surface or Wall temperature

qL
Tw  T 
2h …….. (1.59)

CYLINDER WITH INTERNAL HEAT GENERATION

Consider a cylinder of radius r and thermal conductivity k. Heat is generated (Qg) in the
cylinder due to passage of an electric current.

From Fourier‟s law of conduction, we know that,

d 2T q r
r 2  0 ………. (1.60)
dr k
Integrating
 d 2T q
r 2   r   0
dr k
dT q r 2
 r   C1
dr k 2
dT qr C1
  
dr 2k r

Integrating

dT q C1
 dr   2k r   r

qr 2
 T   C1 Inr  C 2 ……. (1.61)
2k  2

qr 2
 T    C1 Inr  C 2
2k

Apply boundary conditions

C1 = 0

qr02
(1.61)  Tw    C 2 [Put T = Tw, r = r0]
2k

qr02
 C 2  Tw 
2k

Apply C1 and C2 value in Equation (1.61)

qr 2 qr 2
 T    0  Tw  0
4k 4k

T  Tw 
q 2
4k

r0  r 2 
At centre

r = 0, T = Tmax

==> Tmax  Tw 
q 2
4k
 
r0
 Maximum Temperature, Tmax  Tw 
q 2
r0 
4k ……. (1.62)

We know that,

Heat generated

Q  r02 Lq ……….. (1.63)

Heat transfer due to convection

Q  hA Aw  T 

Q  h  2r0 LTw  T  ………. (1.64)

Equation (1.63) and (1.64)

r02 Lq  h  2r0 LTw  T 

r0 q  h  2  Tw  T 
r0 q  2hTw  2hT
2hTw  r0 q  2hT
r0 q
Tw  T 
2h

r0 q
Surface temperature, Tw  T 
2h ……. (1.65)

Similarly,

For sphere, temperature at the centre

qr02
Tc  Tw  …… (1.66)
6k
 q 250
 
4r 2
4 / 3r 3
250  4   0.050 
2

 q 
4 / 3  0.050 
3

 q  15,000W / m 3

Temperature at the centre of the sphere

qr 2
Tc  Tw  [From Equn no. (1.66)]
6k

1555  0.050 
2

 281 
6  0.18

Tc  315 .7 K

Result:

 Heat generated, q = 15,000 W/m3

 Center temperature, Tc = 315.7 K

FINS

It is possible to increase the heat transfer rate by increasing the surface of heat transfer.
The surfaces used for increasing heat transfer are called extended surfaces of fins.

Types of fins

Some common types of fin configuration are shown in fig. 1.11.

 (i) Uniform straight fin

(ii) Tapered straight fin

(iii) Splines

(iv) Annular fin

 (v) Pin fins

Commonly there are three types of fin

 Infinitely long fin

 Short fin (end is insulated)
 Short fin (end is insulated)

TEMPERATURE DISTRIBUTION AND HEAT DISSIPATION IN FIN

Fig. 1.12 (a) and (b) shows the straight fin or longitudinal fin of rectangular section and
circular section respectively. One end of the fin is enclosed in a heating chamber and the other
end is exposed to atmospheric air.

Heat is transferred across the rectangular fin and circular rod by conduction. From the
surface of the fin, heat is transferred to air by convection. Let us consider a small elemental area
of thickness dx, which is at a distance of x from the base.
 A steady state conditions, heat balance equation for that element is as follows.

Heat conducted into the element = Heat conducted out of the element + heat convected to the
surrounding air.

 Q x  Q x  dx  Qconv ……. (1.67)

Where,

 dT 
Qx   kA 
 dx 
dx
 dT  d 2 A
Qx  dx   kA   kA 2 
 dx   dx 
Qconv  hAT  T 
 h pdx T  T 

Substituting Q x , Q x  dx and Qconv values in equation (1.67)

(1.67)

 dT  d 2T
  kA   kA 2 dx  h pdx T  T 
dT
  kA
dx  dx  dx
d 2T
 kA 2  hp T  T 
dx
2
d T hP
 2  T  T 
dx kA
d 2 T hP
 2  T  T   0
dx kP
d 2T
 2  m 2 T  T   0
dx
 hP
Where, m 2 
kA

hP
 m 
kA
……. (1.68)
d 2T
 2  m 2  0
dx

  T  T 
Equation (1.68) shows that the temperature is a function of x and m. It is a second order,
linear differential equation. Its general solution is,

  C1e  mx  C 2 e mx ……… (1.69)

The temperature distribution and heat dissipation depends upon the following fin
conditions.

Case (i): Infinitely long fin

If a fin is infinitely long, the temperature at its end is equal to that of the surrounding
fluid.

Atx  0; T  Tb and AtX   ; T  T

Tb  Base temperature of fin

From equation (1.69), we know that,

  C1e  me  C 2 e mx
…… (1.70)
T  T  C1e  mx  C 2 e mx

  T  T 
Substituting

AtX  0; T  Tb
1.70   Tb  T  C1 e 0  C 2 e 0

==> Tb  T  C1  C 2 ……. (1.71)

Substituting
 AtX   ; T  T in equation (1.70)

 T  T   C1 e  mx  C 2 e m
 0  C1 e  m  C 2 e m
 C 2 e m  0

e m  0, So, C2 = 0

Substituting C2 = 0 value in equation (1.71)

1.70   Tb  T  C1  0

 Tb  T  C1

Substituting C1 and C2 value in equation (1.70)

1.70   T  T  Tb  T e  mx  0

T  T
  e  mx
Tb  T

T  T
Temperature distribution of fin,  e  mx
Tb  T
…….. (1.72)

Where,

Tb – Base temperature, K

T - Surrounding temperature, K

T – Intermediate temperature, K

x - Distance, m

hP
m
kA

h – heat transfer co-efficient, W/m2K

P – Perimeter, m

k – Thermal conductivity, W/mK

 A – Area, m2

Heat dissipation through the fin is obtained by integrating the heat lost by convection
over the entire fin surface.

We know that,

Heat lost by convection, Qconv  hAT  T 

 Q  hPdx T  T 

 Q   hP T  T dx
0

 Q   hPe  mx Tb  T dx
0

 T  T 
  e  mx  T  T  Tb  T   e  mx 
 Tb  T 

 Q  hP Tb  T  e  mx dx
0

 hP Tb  T  
1
e  mx 0
m
 hP Tb  T     1
1
m
 hP Tb  T  
1
m
  hP  Tb  T 
1
m
 hP 
 hP  Tb  T  m 
1
 
hP  kA 
kA
Q  hPkATb  T 

Heat transferred, Q  hPkATb  T 

…. ( 1.73)

Case (ii): Fin with insulated end (Short fin)

The fin has a finite length and the tip of fin is insulated.
 dT
Atx  L;  0;
, dx
Atx  0; T  Tb

From equation (17.70), we know that,

T  T   C1e  me  C 2 e mx
 C1 e  mx   m   C 2 e mx  m
dT

dx

dT
Applying the first boundary condition, i.e., at x = L, 0
dx

 0  C1 e  mL   m  C 2 e mL  m
 mC 1 e  mL  mC 2 e mL
C1 e  mL  C 2 e mL

……. (1.74)
C1 e  mL  C 2 e mL

From equation (1.70), we know that,

T  T   C1emx  C2 e mx
Applying the Second boundary condition, i.e., at x = 0, T = Tb

 Tb  T   C1e 0  C 2 e 0

 Tb  T   C1  C 2

 Tb  T  C2 e 2 mL  C2  C 1  C 2 e 2 mL 

 Tb  T  C 2 e 2 mL  1 
Tb  T
C2 
e 2 mL
1  … (1.75)

Substituting C2 value in equation (1.74)

 T  T 
 C1   2b mL    e 2 mL
e  1
T  T 1
 C1  b   2 mL
e2mL  1 e
Tb  T
 C1  2 mL
e  e  2 mL  e  2 mL

==> T  T …. (1.76)
C1 b  2 mL
 e in equation (1.70)
Substituting C1 and C21value

Tb  T  Tb  T 
 T  T    2 mL
 e  mx   e mx
1 e 1 e 2 mL

 e e mx 
 mx
 T  T  Tb  T   2 mL
 
1  e 1  e 2 mL 
T  T   e  mx e mx 
  
Tb  T  1  e  2 mL 
1  e 2 mL 

Multiplying the numerator and denominator by emL and e-mL

T  T  e  mx e mL e mx e  mL
    
Tb  T  1  e  2 mL e mL 1  e 2 mL e  mL
e mx L  e mL x 
 
e mL  e  mL e  mL  e mL

T  T e mL x   e mL x 
  …… (1.77)
Tb  T e mL  e  mL

In terms of hyperbolic function it can be written as,

T  T cosh mL  x 

Tb  T cosh mL

Temperature distribution of fin with insulated end

T  T cosh mL  x 

Tb  T cosh mL ……… (1.78)
 cosh mL  x 
 T  T  Tb  T 
cosh mL
sinh mL  x 
 Tb  T    m
dT

dx cosh mL

We know that,

dT
Heat transferred, Q   kA
dx

sinh mL  x 
  kATb  T    m 
cosh mL
sinh mL  x 
Q  kAmTb  T  
cosh mL
atx  0
sinh mL 
 Q  kAmTb  T  
coshmL 
 kAmTb  T  tanh mL 
hP
 kA  Tb  T  tanh mL 
kA

 hP 
 m  
 kA 

 hPkATb  T  tanh mL 

Heat transferred for insulated fin Q  hPkATb  T  tanh mL 

…..(1.79)

Applications

The main application of fins are

 Cooling of electronic components

 Cooling of motor cycle engines.
 Cooling of small capacity compressors
 Cooling of transformers
 Cooling of radiators and refrigerators etc.
Fin efficiency

The efficiency of a fin is defined as the ratio of actual heat transferred fin to the
maximum possible heat transferred by the fin

Q fin
 fin 
Q max

For insulated end

tanh mL 
 fin 
mL

Fin effectiveness

It is defined as the ratio of heat transfer with fin to heat transfer without fin

Qwithfin
Fin effectiveness, E 
Qwithoutfin

For insulated end

tanh mL 
Fin effectiveness, E 
hA
kP

TRANSIENT HEAT CONDUCTION (OR) UNSTEADY STATE CONDUCTION

If the temperature of a body does not vary with time, it is said to be in a steady state. But
if there is an abrupt change in its surface temperature, it attains a steady state after some period.
During this period the temperature varies with time and the body is said to be in an unsteady or
transient state.

Transient heat conduction occur in cooling of IC engines, automobile engines, boiler

tubes, heating and cooling of metal billets, rocket nozzles, electric irons etc.

Transient heat conduction can be divided in to periodic heat flow and non periodic heat
flow.

(i) Periodic heat flow

In periodic heat flow, the temperature varies on a regular basis.

Examples: Cylinder of an IC engine,

Surface of earth during a period of 24 hours.

(ii) Non periodic heat flow:

In non periodic heat flow, the temperature at any point within the system varies non-
linearly with time.

Examples: heating of an ingot in a furnace, cooling of bars.

Biot Number

The ratio of internal conduction resistance to the surface convection resistance is known
as Biot number.

Internalco nductionre sis tan ce

Biot Number 
Surfacecon vectionres is tan ce

hLc
Bi 
k

Where

K – Thermal conductivity, W/mK

H – Heat transfer co-efficient, W/m2K

Lc – Characteristic length or significant length

Volume V
Characteristic length, Lc  
SurfaceAre a A

For slab:

V A L
Characteristic length, Lc  
A 2A

L
Lc 
2

Where

L – Thickness of the slab

For cylinder:

R R 2 L
Characteristic length, Lc  
2 2RL

R
Lc 
2

Where

R – Radius of cylinder

For sphere:

V
Characteristic length, Lc 
A

4 3
R
 3
4R 2
R
Lc 
3
Where

R – Radius of the sphere.

For Cube:

V
Characteristic length, Lc 
A

L3
 2
6L

L
Lc 
6
Where

L – Thickness of the cube.

LUMPED HEAT ANALYSIS [NEGLIGIBLE INTERNAL RESISTANCE]

The process in which the internal resistance is assumed as negligible in comparison with
its surface resistance is known as Newtonian heating or cooling process.

In a Newtonian heating or cooling process the temperature is considered to be uniform at

a given time. Such an analysis is called lumped parameter analysis.

Let us consider a solid whose initial temperature is T0 and it is placed suddenly in

ambient air or any liquid at a constant temperature T  . The transient response of the body can
be determined by relating its rate of change of internal energy with convective exchange at the
surface.

Convective heat loss from the body = Rate of change of internal energy

dT
 hAT  T  =   C p V 
dt

dT  hA
 =  dt
T  T C p V

Integrating

dT  hA
 
C p V 
=  dt
T  T

 hA
 InT  T  = t  C1 …. (1.80)
C p V

Apply boundary conditions.

At t = 0, T = T0

1.80   InT0  T   0  C1

C1  InT0  T 
Substituting C1 value in equation (1.80)

 hA
 InT  T   t  InT0  T 
C p V
 hA
 InT  T   InT0  T   t
C p V
 T  T   hA
 In   t
 T0  T  C pV

  hAt 
T  T  
 C pV 
 e
T0  T …… (1.81)

Where

T0 – Initial temperature of the solid, K

T – Intermediate temperature of the solid, K

T  - Surface temperature of the solid (or) Finial temperature of the solid, K

h – Heat transfer co-efficient, W/m2K

A – Surface area of body, m2

P – Density of the body, kg/m3

V – Volume of the body, m3

Cp – Specific heat of the body, J/kg K.

t – Time, s.

Note

1. In lumped parameter system, Biot number value is less than 0.1.

hLc
i.e., Bi  0.1   0 .1
k
 2. T0 – Initial temperature, K
T – Intermediate temperature, K
T  - Surface temperature or Final temperature, K

HEAT FLOW IN SEMI-INFINITE SOLIDS

A solid which extends itself infinitely in all directions of space is known as infinite solid.
If an infinite solid is split in the middle by a plane, each half is known as semi infinite solid.

In a semi infinite solid, at any instant of time, there is always a point where the effect of
heating (or cooling) at one of its boundaries is not felt at all. At this point the temperature
remains unchanged.

Semi Infinite Plate

Consider a semi infinite body and it extends to infinity in the +ve x direction. The entire body is
initially at uniform temperature Ti including the surface at x = 0 is suddenly raised to T0.

The governing equation is

d 2T 1 dT

dx 2  dt

The boundary conditions are

 T  x,0  Ti
 T 0, t   T0 fort  0
 T  , t   Ti fort  0

The analytical solution for this case is given by

 Tx  T0  x 
 erf   ….. (1.82)
Ti  T0  2 t 

Where erf indicates “error function of” and the definition of error function is generally
available in mathematical texts. Usually tabulation of error values are available in data books.

 - Thermal diffusivity, m2/s

t – Time, s

X – Distance, m

Ti – Initial temperature, K

T0 – Surface temperature (or) Final temperature, K

T x - Intermediate temperature, K

Note

1. In semi infinite solid, head transfer co-efficient or biot number value is .

i.e., h  
or
Bi  
2. Ti – Initial temperature, K
T0 – Surface temperature (or) Final temperature, K
T x - Intermediate temperature, K

TRANSIENT HEAT FLOW IN AN INFINITE PLATE

A solid which extends itself infinitely in all directions of space is known as infinite solid.

Consider an infinite flat plate of uniform thickness 2L as shown in fig. 1.15, which is initially at
a uniform temperature of Ti. It is suddenly exposed to a large mass of fluid having a temperature
T  . This temperature is assumed to be constant throughout the process of cooling or heating.
The plate is extended to infinity in the y and z directions.

The heat transfer co-efficient between the surface of the plate and the fluid on both sides
is assumed to be constant. The center of the plate is selected as the orgin.

The governing differential equation is

d 2T 1 dT

dx 2  dx
The boundary conditions are

 Tt t = 0, T0 = Ti
dT
 Tt x = 0, 0
dx
 hAT0  T 
dT
 Tt x =  L, kA
dx

The solution of the above differential equation with this boundary condition is given by

T0  T  x hL t 
 f , , 2
Ti  T L L L 

From this equation, we know that conduction resistance is not negligible. The
 hL   t 
temperature history becomes a function of biot number  c  , Fourier number   and the
 k   L2 
x
dimension less parameter   which indicates the location of point within the plate where
L
x r
temperature is to be obtained. The dimensionless parameter   is replaced by   in case of
L R
cylinders and spheres.

Heisler has prepared charts for graphical solutions of the unsteady state conduction
problems. These charts have been constructed in non-dimensional parameters. The charts are
suitable for problems with a finite surface and internal resistance. For such case the biot number
lies between 0 and 100.

These heiler charts were further extended and improved by grobe.

The heiler and grober charts are used to solve the problems of sudden immersion of plate,
cylinder or sphere into a fluid.

Note: For infinite solids,

Take Ti – Initial temperature – K

T  - Final temperature – K

T0 - Center line temperature – K

T x - Intermediate temperature – K

The infinite solids, biot number value is in between 0.1 and 100 i.e., 0.1 < Bi < 100.
1. The wall of a cold room is composed of three layer. The outer layer is brick 30 cm thick.
The middle layer is cork 20 cm thick, the inside layer is cement 15 cm thick. Temperatures of
the outside air is 25˚C and on the inside air is - 20˚ C. The film co-efficient for outside air and
brick is 55.4 W / m2 K. Film co-efficient for inside air and cement is 17 W/m2 K. Find heat
flow rate.

Take

k for brick = 2.5 W/mK

k for cork = 0.05 W/mK

k for cement = 0.28 W/mK

Given:

Thickness of brick, L3 = 30 cm = 0.3 m

Thickness of cork, L2 = 20 cm = 0.2 m

Thickness of cement, L1 = 15 cm = 0.15 m

Inside air temperature, Ta = -20˚ C + 273 = 253 K

Outside air temperature, Tb = 25˚ C + 273 = 293 K

Film co-efficient of r inner side, ha = 17 W/m2 K

kbrick = k3 = 2.5 W/mK

kcork = k2 = 0.05 W/mK

kcement = k1 = 0.28 W /mK

Cement Cork Brick

Inside Outside
k1 k2 k3
Ta Tb

ha hb

L1 L2 L3
To find:

Heat flow rate (Q/A)

Solution:

Heat flow through composite wall is given by

 Toverall
Q [From Equn no. 1.42 or HMT Date book page No. 43 and 44]
R

Where

T  Ta  Tb
1 L L L 1
R  1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A

 Q 
Ta  Tb 
1 L L L 1
 1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A
Ta  Tb 
 Q / A 
1 L1 L 2 L3 1
   
ha k1 k 2 k 3 hb
253  298
 Q / A 
1 0.15 0.2 0.3 1
   
17 0.28 0.05 2.5 55.4

Q/A = -9.5 W/m2

The negative sign indicates that the heat flows from the outside into the cold room.

Result:

Heat flow rate, Q/A = -9.5 W/m2

2. A wall of a cold room is composed of three layer. The outer layer is brick 20 cm thick, the
middle layer is cork 10 cm thick, the inside layer is cement 5 cm thick. The temperature of the
outside air is 25˚ C and that on the inside air is -20˚ C. The film co-efficient for outside air and
brick is 45.4 W/m2K and for inside air and cement is 17 W/m2K.
Take

k for brick = 3.45 W/mK

k for cork = 0.043 W/mK

k for cement = 0.294 W/mK

Given:

Cement Cork Brick

Inside Outside
k1 k2 k3
Ta Tb

ha hb

L1 L2 L3

Thickness of brick, L3 = 20 cm = 0.2 m

Thickness of cork, L2 = 10 cm = 0.1 m

Thickness of cement, L1 = 5 cm = 0.05 m

Outside air temperature, Tb = 25˚ C + 273 = 293 K

Inside air temperature, Ta = -20˚ C + 273 = 253 K

Film co-efficient for outside air and brick, hb = 45.4 W/m2K

Film co-efficient for inside air and cement, ha = 17 W/m2K

k3 = 3.45 W/mK

k2 = 0.043 W/mK

k1 = 0.294 W /mK
To find:

1. Heat flow rate

2. Thermal resistance of the wall

Solution:

Heat flow through composite wall is given by

 Toverall
Q [From Equn no. (1.42) (or) HMT Date book page No. 43 and 44]
R

Where

T  Ta  Tb
1 L L L 1
R  1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A

 Q 
Ta  Tb 
1 L L L 1
 1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A
Ta  Tb 
 Q / A 
1 L1 L 2 L3 1
   
ha k1 k 2 k 3 hb
253  298
 Q / A 
1 0.05 0 .1 0 .2 1
   
17 0.294 0.043 3.45 45.4

Q/A = -17.081W/m2
W/m2

The negative sign indicates that the heat flows from the outside into the cold room.

Thermal Resistance

1 L L L 1
R  1  2  3 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A

For Unit Area

1 L1 L2 L3 1
 R     
ha k1 k 2 k 3 hb
 1 0.05 0 .1 0 .2 1
 R     
17 0.294 0.043 3.45 45.4

 R  2.634 K / W

Result:

1. Heat flow rate, Q/A = -17.081 W/m2

2. Thermal resistance, R = 2.634 K/W

3. A wall is constructed of several layers. The first layer consists of masonary brick 20 cm
thick of thermal conductivity 0.66 W/mK, the second layer consists of 3 cm thick mortar of
thermal conductivity 0.6 W/mK, the third layer consists of 8 cm thick lime stone of thermal
conductivity 0.58 W/mK and the outer layer consists of 1.2 cm thick plaster of thermal
conductivity 0.6 W/mK. The heat transfer co-efficient on the interior and exterior of the wall
are 5.6 W/m2K and 11 W/m2 K respectively. Interior room temperature is 22˚ C and outside air
temperature is -5˚C.

Calculate

 Overall heat transfer co-efficient

 Overall thermal resistance
 The rate of heat transfer
 The temperature at the junction between the mortar and the limestone

Given:
 Thickness of masonary, L1 = 20 cm = 0.20 m

Thermal conductivity, k1 = 0.66 W/mK

Thickness of mortar, L2 = 3 cm = 0.03 m

Thermal conductivity of mortrar, k2 = 0.6 W/mK

Thickness of limestone, L3 = 8 cm = 0.08m

Thermal conductivity, k3 = 0.58 W/mK

Thickness or Plaster, L4 = 1.2 cm = 0.012 m

Thermal conductivity, k4 = 0.6 W/mK

Interior heat transfer, co-efficient ha = 5.6 W/m2K

Exterior heat transfer co-efficient hb = 11 W/m2K

Inside air temperature, Ta = 22˚C + 273 = 295 K

Outside air temperature, Tb = -5˚C + 273 = 268 K.

To fine:

a) Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U

b) Overall thermal resistance, (R)
c) Heat transfer/m2, (Q/A)
d) The temperature at the junction between the Mortar and the limestone, (T3)

Solution:

Heat flow through composite wall is given by

 Toverall
Q [From Equn no. (1.42) or HMT Date book page No. 43 & 44]
R

Where
 T  Ta  Tb
1 L L L 1
R  1  2  3 
h a A k 1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A
Ta  Tb
 Q 
1 L L L 1
 1  2  3 
h a A k 1 A k 2 A k 3 A hb A
295  268
 Q / A 
1 0.20 0.03 0.08 0.012 1
    
5.6 0.66 0.6 0.58 0 .6 11

Heat transfer per unit area, Q/A = 34.56W/m2

We know that,

Heat transfer, Q  UATa  Tb  [From equation no. 1.43]

Where, U – overall heat transfer co-efficient

Q
 U 
A  Ta  Tb 
34.56
 U 
295  268

Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U = 1.28 W/m2K

We know that,

Overall thermal resistance (R)

1 L L L L 1
R  1  2  3  4 
ha A k1 A k 2 A k 3 A k 4 A hb A

For unit Area

1 L1 L2 L3 L4 1
R     
ha k1 k 2 k 3 k 4 hb

1 0.20 0.03 0.08 0.012 1

    
5.6 0.66 0.6 0.58 0 .6 11
 R= 0.78 K/W
Interface temperature between mortasr and the limestorn, T3

Interface temperatures relation

Ta  T1 T1  T2 T2  T3 T3  T4 T4  T5 T5  Tb
Q     
Ra R1 R2 R3 R4 Rb

Ta  T1
 Q 
Ra

295  T1  1 
Q  Ra  haA 
1 / ha A  

295  T1
Q/ A
1 / ha
295  T1
34.56 
1 / 5 .6

T1 = 288.8 K

T1  T2
 Q 
R1

288 .8  T2  L1 
Q
L1  R1  
 k1 A 
k1 A

288 .8  T2
Q/ A
L1
k1
288 .8  T2
34.56 
0.20
0.66

T2  278 .3K
 T2  T3
 Q 
R2

278 .3  T3  L2 
Q  R2  
L2  k2 A
k2 A

278 .3  T3
Q/ A 
L2
k2
278 .3  T3
34.56 
0.03
0 .6

T3=276.5 K
Temperature between Mortar and limestone (T3) is 276.5 K

Result:

 Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U = 1.28 W/m2K

 Overall thermal resistance, R = 0.78 K/W
 Heat transfer, Q/A = 34.56 W/m2
 Temperature between mortar and limestorne, (T3) = 276.5 K

4. An insulated steel pipe carrying a hot liquid. Inner diameter of the pipe is 25 cm, wall
thickness is 2 cm, thickness of insulation is 5 cm, temperature of hot liquid is 100˚C,
temperature of surrounding is 20˚C, inside heat transfer co-efficient is 730 W/m2K and outside
heat transfer co-efficient is 12 W/m2K. Calculate the heat loss per meter length of the pipe.

Take ksteel = 55W/mK, kinsulating material = 0.22 W/mK

Given:
 Inner diameter, d1 = 25 cm

Inner radius, r1 = 12.5 cm

r1 = 0.125 m
Radius, r2 = r1 + thickness of wall

= 0.125 + 0.02

r3 = 0.195
m
Temperature of hot liquid, Ta = 100˚C + 273

Ta = 373 K

Temperature of surrounding, Tb = 20˚C + 273

Tb = 293 K

Inside heat transfer co-efficient, ha = 730 W/m2K

Outside heat transfer co-efficient, hb = 12 W/m2K

ksteel = 55 W/mK

kinsulation = 0.22 W/mK

To find:

Heat loss per metre length

Solution:

Heat flow through composite cylinder is given by

 Toverall
Q [From Equn no. 1.48 or HMT Date book page No. 43 & 44]
R

Where
 T  Ta  Tb
 r  r  
 In  2  In  3  
1  1  r1   r2  1 
R   
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 
 
 
Ta  Tb
 Q 
 r  r  
 In  2  In  3  
1  1  r1   r2  1 
  
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 
 
 
Q 373  293
 
L   .145   .195  
 In   In  .145  
1

1  .125    1

  
2  730  .125 55 0.22 12  .195 
 
 

Q/L = 281. 178W/m

Result:

Heat transfer per metre length, Q/L = 281. 178 W/m.

5. Air at 90˚C flows in a copper tube of 5 cm inner diameter with thermal conductivity 380
W/mK and with 0.7 cm thick wall which is heated from the outside by water at 120˚C. a scale
of 0.4 cm thick is deposited on the outer surface of the tube whose thermal conductivity is 1.82
W/mK. The air and water side unit surface conductance are 220 W/m2 K and 3650 W/m2 K
respectively. Calculate

 Overall water to air transmittance

 Water to air heat exchange
 Temperature drop across the scale deposit.

Given:
Inner air temperature, Ta = 90˚ + 273

Ta = 363 K

Inner diameter of the copper, d1 = 5 cm

Radius, r1 = 2.5 cm

r1 = 0.025 m
Thermal conductivity, k1 = 380 W/mK

Outer radius of the copper, r2 = inner radius + thickness of wall

r2 = 0.025 + 0.007 m

r2 = 0.032 m

r3 = r2 + thickness of scale

= 0.032 + 0.004

r3 = 0.036 m

Outside temperature of water, Tb = 120˚C + 273

= 393 K

Thermal conductivity, k2 = 1.82 W/mK

Surface conductance of air, ha = 220 W/m2K

Surface conductance of water, hb = 3650 W/m2K

To find:

1. Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U

2. Water to air heat transfer, Q
3. Temperature drop across the scale deposit, (T3 - T2)

Solution:

Heat flow through composite cylinder is given by

  Toverall
Q [From Equn no. (1.48) or HMT Date book page No. 43 & 45]
R

Where

T  Ta  Tb
 r  r  
 In  2  In  3  
1  1  r1   r2  1 
R   
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 
 
 
Ta  Tb
 Q 
 r  r  
 In  2  In  3  
1  1  r1   r2  1 
  
2L  ha r1 k1 k2 hb r3 
 
 
Q 363  393
 
L   .032   .036  
 In   In   
1

1  .025   .032  1

  
2  220  .025 380 1.82 3650  .036 
 
 

Q/L = -739.79 W/m

[Negative sign indicates that heat flows from outside to inner side]

We know that,

Heat transfer, Q = UA T

Where

U – Overall heat transfer co-efficient

A – Area = 2 r3 L

 T = Ta - Tb
  Q  U  2r3 L  Ta  Tb 
Q  U  2r3  Ta  Tb 
L
 739 .79  U  2    0.036  363  393 

==> U = 109.01 W/m2K

Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U = 109.01 W/m2K.

Interface temperatures

T Ta  Tb Ta  T1 T1  T2 T2  T3 T3  Tb
Q      …….. (1)
R R Ra R1 R2 Rb

T2  T3
(1)  Q 
R2

Where

 r3 
In
1  r2 
R2   
2L  k 2 
 
 
T2  T3
 Q 
 r3 
In
1  r2 
 
2L  k 2 
 
 
Q T2  T3
 
L  r3 
In
1  r2 
 
2  k 2 
 
 
T2  T3
 739 .79 
  0.036  
In
1   0.032  
 
2  1.82 
 
 
 ==> T2 – T3 = -7.6 K

==> T3 – T2 = 7.6 K

Temperature across the scale deposit, T3 – T2 = 7.6 K

Result:

1. Overall heat transfer co-efficient, U = 109.01 W/m2K

2. Heat exchange, Q/L = -739.79 W/m
[Negative sign indicates that heat flows from outside to inner side]
3. Temperature drop across the scale deposit,
T3 – T2 = 7.6 K

6. An electrical wire of 10 m length and 1 mm diameter dissipates 200W in air at 25˚C. The
convection heat transfer co-efficient between the wire surface and air is 15W/m2K. The
thermal conductivity of wire is 0.582 W/mK. Calculate the critical radius of insulation and
also determine the temperature of the wire if it is insulated to the critical thickness of
insulation.

Given:

Length of the wire, L = 10 mm

Diameter of the wire, d = 1 mm

Radius of the wire, r = 0.5 mm = 0.5  10-3m

Heat transfer, Q = 200 W

Surrounding temperature, Tb = 25˚C + 273 = 298 K

Convection heat transfer co-efficient between the wire surface and air, hb = 15 Wm2K.

Thermal conductivity of wire, k = 0.582 W/mk

To find:

1. Critical radius of insulation, rc

2. Temperature of wire, Ta

Solution:

We know that,

k
Critical radius of insulation, rc 
n

0 .582

15

rc = 0.0388 m

Heat transfer through an insulated wire when critical radius is used is given by

Ta  Tb 
 Q 
  rc  
 In   
1   r1  1 

2L  k1 hb rc 
 
 
Ta  298
200 
  0.0388  
 In   
 
1 0.0005  1
 
2  10  0.582 150.0388  
 
 
Ta  298
200 
0.146

==> Ta = 327.28 K

Result:

1. Critical radius of insulation, rc = 0.0388mm

2. Temperature of the wire, Ta = 327.28 K (or) 54.2˚C.
7. A wire of 6 mm diameter with 2 mm thick insulation (K = 0.11 W/mK). If the convective
heat transfer co-efficient between the insulating surface heat transfer co-efficient between the
insulating surface and air is 25 W/m2K, find the critical thickness of insulation and also find
the percentage of change in the heat transfer rate if the critical radius is used.

Given:

d1 = 6 mm

r1 = 3 mm

r2 = r1+2 = 3+2 = 5 mm = 0.005 m

k = 0.11W / mK

hb = 25 W/m2K

Solution:

k
1. Critical radius, rc  [From. No. (1.50)]
h
0.11
rc   4.4  10  3 m
25

rc  4.4  10 3 m

Critical thickness, tc = rc – r1
= 4.4  10-3 m

Critical thickness, tc = 1.4  10-3 m (or) 1.4 mm

2. Heat transfer through an insulated wire is given by

 Ta  Tb 
 Q1 
  r2  
 In   
1   r1  1 

2L  k1 hb r2 
 
 
2 Ta  Tb 
 [From HMT data book page no. 43 & 45]
 0.005 
In  
 0.003   1
0.11 25  0.005
2L Ta  Tb 
Q1 
12 .64

Heat flow through an insulated wire when critical radius is used is given by

Ta  Tb 
 Q 2 
  rc  
 In   
1   r1  1 

2L  k1 hb rc 
 
 
2LTa  Tb 

 4.4  10 3 
In  
 0.003  1

0.11 25  4.4  10 3
2LTa  Tb 
Q2 
12.572

Percentage of increase in heat flow by using

Q 2  Q1
Critical radius   100
Q1

1 1
  100
 12 . 57 12 . 64
1
12.64
 0.55%
Result:

1. Critical thickness, tc = 1.4  10-3

2. Percentage of increase in heat transfer by using critical radius = 0.55%

8. An electric current is passed through a composite wall made up of two layers. First layer is
steel of 10 cm thickness and second layer is brass of 8 cm thickness. The outer surface
temperature of steel and brass are maintained at 120˚C and 65˚C respectively. Assuming that
the contact between two slab is perfect and the heat generation is 1, 65,000 W/m3.

Determine:

1. Heat flux through the outer surface of brass slab

2. Interface temperature.

Take k for steel is 45 W/mK. K for brass is 80 W/mK.

Given:

Thickness of steel, L1 = 10 cm = 0.10 m

Thickness of brass, L2 = 8 cm = 0.08 m

Surface temperature of steel, T1 = 120˚C + 273 = 393 K

Outside surface temperature of brass, T3 = 25˚ C + 273 = 293 K

Heat generation, qg = 1, 65,000 W/m3

k1 = 45 W/mK

k2 = 80 W/mK
To find:

1. Heat flux through the surface of the brass slab, q2

2. Interface temperature, T2.

Solution:

Let

q1 – Heat flux through the surface of the steel slab

q2 – Heat flux through the surface of the brass slab

Heat generation qg = q1 + q2 ……. (1)

Heat transfer through steel,

T
Q1 
R
 L
T1  T2  R  kA 
Q1   
L1
k1 A

Let interface temperature T2 is greater than T1. So,

T2  T1
Q1  …… (2)
L1
k1 A

Heat transfer through brass is given by

T
Q2 
R
T  T3 ……. (3)
Q2  2
L2
k2 A

Total heat transfer [Adding (2) + (3)]

 Q1  Q1  Q 2
T2  T1 T2  T3
Q1  
L1 L2
k1 A k2 A
T2  T1 T2  T3
Q/ A 
L1 L2
k1 k2

Heat flux (or) Heat generation

T2  T1 T2  T3
qg  Q / A  
L1 L2
k1 k2
T2  393 T2  338
qg  
0.10 0.08
45 80
T  393 T2  338
 1,65,000  2 
2.2  10 3 1  10 3
T2 393 T2 338
3
 3
 3

2.2  10 2.2  10 1  10 1  10 3
 T2 454 .54  1000   1,78,636 .3  338000
 T2 1454 .54   5,16,636 
 1,65,000  5,16,636  T2 1454 .5
 T2  468 .6 K

Interface temperature, T2 = 468.6K

Heat transfer through steel, is given by

 T2  T1
Q1 
L1
k1 A
T2  T1
Q1 / A 
L1
k1
468 .6  393
 q1 
0.10
45

q1=34020 W/m2

From equation (1)

Heat generation, qg = q1+ q2

==> 1, 65,000 =34.020 +q2

==> q2 = 1, 65,000 – 34.020

q2 = 1, 30,980 W/m2

Heat flux through the

Surface of the brass slab, q2 = 1, 30,980 W/m2

Result:

(i) q2 = 1, 30,980 W/m2

(ii) T2 = 468.6 K.

9. A copper wire of 40 mm diameter carries 250 A and has a resistance of 0.25  10-4 
cm/length surface temperature of copper wire is 250˚C and the ambient air temperature is
10˚C. If the thermal conductivity of the copper wire is 175 W/mK, calculate

1. Heat transfer co-efficient between wire surface and ambient air.

2. Maximum temperature in the wire.

Given:

Diameter, d = 40 mm = 0.040 m

Radius, r = 20 mm = 0.020 m

Current, I = 250A.
 Resistance, R = 0.25  10-4  cm/length

Surface temperature, Tw = 205˚C + 273 = 523 K

Ambient air temperature, T  = 10˚C + 273 = 283 K

Thermal conductivity, k = 175 W/mK

To find:

1. Heat transfer co-efficient, h

2. Maximum temperature, Tmax.

Solution:

Heat transfer, Q = I2R

= (250)2  (0.25  10-4)

= 1.562 W/cm

= 1.56  102 W/m

= 156W/m

We know that,

Q 156
Heat generated, q  
V   r2  L

156
q
  0.020   1
2

q = 124140W/m3

We know that,

Maximum temperature

qt 2
Tmax  Tw  [From Equn no. (1.62)]
4k

124140  0.020 
2

 523
4  175
 523.07 K .

Tmax = 523.07 K.
We know that,

rq
Surface temperature, T w  T  [From Equn no.(1.65)]
2h

0.020  124140
523  283 
2h

==> h = 5017 W/m2K.

Result:

1. Heat transfer co-efficient, h = 5.17W/m2K

2. Maximum temperature, Tmax = 523.07 K.

10. An aluminum alloy fin of 7 mm thick and 50 mm long protrudes from a wall, which is
maintained at 120˚C. The heat transfer coefficient and conductivity of the fin material are
140W/m2K and 55 W/mK respectively. Determine

1. Temperature at the end of the fin.

2. Temperature at the middle of the fin.
3. Total heat dissipated by the fin.

Given:

Thickness, t = 7 mm = 0.007 m

Length, L = 50 mm = 0.050 m

Base temperature, Tb = 120˚C + 273 = 393 K

Ambient temperature, T  = 22˚ + 273 = 295 K

Heat transfer co-efficient, h = 140 W/m2K

Thermal conductivity, k = 55 W/mK.

To find:

1. Temperature at the end of the fin.

2. Temperature at the middle of the fin
3. Total heat dissipated by the fin.
Solution:

Since the length of the fin is 50 mm, it is treated as short fin. Assume end is insulated.

We known that,

Temperature distribution [Short fin, end insulated]

T  T cosh mL  x 
 ……. (1)
Tb  T coshmL 

[From HMT data book page no. 49]

i) Temperature at the end of the fin, Put x  L

T  T cosh mL  L 
(1)  
Tb  T coshmL 
…… (2)
T  T 1
 
Tb  T coshmL 

Where

hP
m
kA

P = Perimeter = 2  L (Approx)

= 2  0.050
P = 0.1 m

A – Area = Length  thickness = 0.050  0.007

A = 3.5  10-4m2

hP
m
kA
140  0.1

55  3.5  10  4

m = 26.96 m-1
 T  T 1
( 2)  
Tb  T cosh26.9  0.050 
T  T 1
 
Tb  T 2.05
T  295 1
 
393  295 2.05
 T  295  47.8

==> T = 342.8 K

Temperature at the end of the fin, T x  L = 342.8 K

ii) Temperature at the middle of the fin.

Put x  L /2 in Equation (1)

T  T cosh mL  L / 2
(1)  
Tb  T coshmL 
 0.050 
cosh 26.9 0.050 
T  T  2 
 
Tb  T cosh26.9  0.050 
T  295 1.234
 
393  295 2.049
T  295
  0.6025
393  295

T = 354.04 K
Temperature at the middle of the fin

Tx  L / 2  354 .04 K

iii) Total heat dissipated

[From HMT data book page no. 49]

Q  hPkA Tb  T  tanh mL 

1
2


 140  0.1 55  3.5  10  4 1
2
 393  295   tanh 26.9  0.050 

Q = 44.4 W
Result:

1. Temperature at the end of the fin, Tx  L  342 .8 K

2. Temperature at the middle of the fin, Tx  L / 2  354 .04 K
3. Total heat dissipated, Q = 44.4 W

11. Ten thin brass fins (k=100 W/mK), 0.75 mm thick are placed axially on a 1 m long and 60
mm diameter engine cylinder which is surrounded by 27˚C. The fins are extended 1.5 m from
the cylinder surface and the heat transfer co-efficient between cylinder and atmospheric air is
15 W/m2K. Calculate the rate of heat transfer and the temperature at the end of fins when the
cylinder surface is at 160˚C.

Given:

Number of fins = 10

Thermal conductivity, k = 100 W/mK

Thickness of the fin, t = 0.75  10-3m

Length of engine cylinder, Lcy = 1 m

Diameter of the cylinder, d = 60 mm = 0.060 m

Atmosphere temperature, T  = 27˚C + 273 = 300 K

Length of the fin, Lf = 1.5 cm = 1.5  10-2 m

Heat transfer co-efficient, h = 15 W/m2K

Cylinder surface temperature

Or
base temperature, Tb = 160˚C + 273 = 433 K

To find:

1. Rate of heat transfer Q

2. Temperature at the end of the fin

Solution:

Length of the fin is 1.5 cm. So, this is short fin. Assuming that the fin end is insulated
We know that,

Heat transferred, Q  hPkA Tb  T  tanh mL f 

1
2 ……… (1)

[From HMT data book page no.49]

Where

P – Perimeter = 2  Length of the cylinder

= 21

P=2m
A – Area = length of the cylinder  thickness

= 1  0.75  10-3 m

A = 1  0.75  10-3
m

hP
m
kA
15  2

100  0.75  10 3

20 = m-1
 (1)  Q1  hPkA Tb  T  tanh mL f 
1
2


 15  2  100  0.75  10 3  1
2

 433  300   tanh 20  1.5  10  2 
Q1  1.5  133  0.29
Q1  58.1W

Heat transferred per fin = 58.1 W

Heat transferred for 10 fins = 58.1  10 = 581 W

Q1 = 581 W …….. (2)

Heat transfer from un finned surface due to convection is

Q 2  hAT
 h  dL cy 10  t  Lf Tb  T 

[Area of unfinned surface = Area of cylinder – Area of fin]

 
 15    0.060  1  10  0.75  10 3  1.5  10 2 433  300  
Q2 = 375.8 W
……. (3)

So, total heat transfer, Q = Q1 + Q2

Q = 581 + 375.8

Total heat transfer, Q = 956.8 W

We known that,

Temperature distribution [short fin, end insulated]


T  T

cosh m L f  x  
Tb  T coshmL f 

[From HMT data book page no.49]

We need temperature at the end of fin, so, put x  L

 T  T cosh mL  L 
 
Tb  T coshmL f 
T  T 1
 
Tb  T 
cosh 20  1.5  10  2 
1

0.95
Tb  T
 T  T 
0.95
T  T
 T  T  b
0.95
433  300
 300 
0.95

T = 440 K

Result:

1. Heat transfer, Q = 956.8 W

2. Temperature at the end of the fin, T = 440K.

12. An aluminum plate (k = 160 W/m˚C,  = 2790 kg/m3, Cp = 0.88 KJ/kg˚C) of thickness L
= 3 cm and at a uniform temperature of 225˚C is suddenly immersed at time t = 0 in a well
stirred fluid maintained at a constant temperature T  = 25˚C. Take h = 320 W/m2C.
Determine the time required for the centre of the plate to reach 50˚C.

Given:

Thermal conductivity of aluminum, k = 160 W/m˚C

Density,  = 2790 kg/m3

Specific heat, Cp = 0.88 KJ/kg˚C = 0.88  103 J/kg˚C

Thickness, L = 3 cm = 0.03 m

Initial temperature, T0 = 225˚C + 273 = 498 K

Final temperature, T  = 25˚C + 273 = 323 K

Heat transfer co-efficient, h = 320 W/m2˚C

To find:

Time (t) required to reach 50˚C.

Solution:

We know that, For slab,

L

2
Characteristic length, L c
0.03

2

Lc = 0.015 m

hL e
Biot number Bi 
k

320  0.015

160
Bi = 0.03 < 0.1

Biot number value is less than 0.1. So, this is lumped heat analysis type problem.

For lumper parameter system.

  hA 
T  T  t 
 e  Cp V    [From HMT data book page no.57]
T0  T

We know that,

V
Characteristics length, L c 
A

  hA 
T  T  t 
(1)   e  Cp V   
T0  T 
  320 t 
323  298  
  e  0.8810 0.0152790 
3

498  298
 320  t
 In0.125  
0.88  10 3  0.015  2790
 2.079  0.00868 t

==>
t = 239.26 s
Result:

Time required to reach 50˚C is 239.26 s.

13. A steel ball (specific heat = 0.46 kJ/kgK. and thermal conductivity = 35 W/mK) having 5
cm diameter and initially at a uniform temperature of 450˚C is suddenly placed in a control
environment in which the temperature is maintained at 100˚C. Calculate the time required of
the ball to attained a temperature of 150˚C.

Take h = 10 W/m2K

Given:

Specific heat, Cp = 0.46 kJ/kg K = 460 J/kg K

Thermal conductivity, k = 35 W/mK

Diameter of the sphere, D = 5 cm = 0.05 m

Radius of the sphere, R = 0.025 m

Initial temperature, T0 = 450˚C + 273 = 723 K

Final temperature, T  = 100˚C + 273 = 373 K

Intermediate temperature, T = 150˚C + 273 = 423 K

Heat transfer co-efficient, h = 10 W/m2K

To fine:

Time required for the ball to reach 150˚C

Solution:

Density of steel is 7833 kg/m3

  7833kg / m 3

For sphere,

R
Characteristic length, Lc =
3

0 .025

3
 Lc = 8.33  10-3 m
We know that,

hL e
Biot number, Bi = 
k

10  8.3  10 3

35
Bi  2.38  10 3  0.1

Biot number value is less than 0.1. So, this is lumped heat analysis type problem.

For lumped parameter system,

  hA 
T  T  t 
 e  Cp V   
T0  T
…… (1)

[From HMT data book page no.57]

We know that,

V
Characteristics length, L c 
A

 h 
T  T  t 
(1)   e  Cp V   
T0  T
 10 
423  373  3
t 
  e  4608.3310 7833 
723  373
423  373  10
 In  t
723  373 460  8.33  10 3  7833

==> t = 5840.54 s

Result:

Time required for the ball to reach 150˚C is 5840.54s.

14. A large wall 2 cm thick has uniform temperature 30˚C initially and the wall temperature is
suddenly raised and maintained at 400˚C. Find

1. The temperature at a depth of 0.8 cm from the surface of the wall after 10 s.
 2. Instantaneous heat flow rate through that surface per m2 per hour.

Take  = 0.008 m2/hr, k = W/m˚C.

Given:

Thickness, L = 2 cm = 0.02 m

Initial temperature, Ti = 30˚C + 273 = 303 K

Surface temperature, T0 = 400˚C + 273 = 673 K

Thermal diffusivity,  = 0.008 m2/h

= 2.22  10-6 m2/s

Thermal conductivity, k = 6 W/m˚C.

Case (i)

Depth, x = 0.8 cm = 0.8  10-2 m

= 0.008 m

Time, t = 10 s

Case (ii)

Time, t = 1 h = 3600 s

To find:

1. Temperature (T x ) at a depth of 0.8 cm from the surface of the wall after 10s.
2. Instantaneous heat flow rate (q x ) through that surface per hour.

Solution:

In this problem heat transfer co-efficient h is not given. So take it as . i.e., h  .

We know that,

hL e
Biot number, Bi = 
k

h

h
 ==>

Bi value is . So, this is semi infinite solid type problem.

Case (i)

For semi infinite solid,

 x 
T x  T0  
 2 t 
 erf
Ti  T0

[From HMT data book page no.58]

T x  T0
 erf Z 
Ti  T0
……. (1)

Where,

x
Z
2 t

Put x = 0.008 m, t = 10 s,  = 2.22  10-6 m2/s.

0.008
 Z 
2 2.22  10  6  10

Z = 0.848

Z = 0.848, corresponding erf (Z) is 0.7706

==> erf (Z) = 0.7706

[Refer HMT data book page no. 59]

 T x  T0
(1)   0.7706
Ti  T0
T x  673
  0.7706
303  673
T  673
 x  0.7706
 370

T x  387 .85 K
Case (ii)

Instantaneous heat flow

  x2 
k T0  Ti   
 4t 
qx  e [From HMT data book page no. 58]
t

t = 36000 s (Given)

6673  303    0.008  

2

 q x  e 6 
  2.22  10  6  3600  4  2.22  10  3600 

q x  13982 .37W / m 2

Result:

Intermediate temperature, T x = 387.85 K

Heat flux, q x = 13982.37 W/m2

15. A semi infinite slab of aluminum is exposed to a constant heat flux at the surface of 0.25
MW/m2. Initial temperature of the slab is 25˚C. Calculate the surface temperature after 10
minutes and also find the temperature at a distance of 30 cm from the surface after 10
minutes.

Given:

Heat flux, q0 = 0.25 MW/m2

q0 = 0.25  106 W/m2

 Initial temperature, Ti = 25˚C + 273 = 298 K

Distance, x = 30 cm = 0.30 m

Time, t = 10 minutes = 600 s

To find:

1. Surface temperature (T0) after 10 minutes.

2. Temperature (T x ) at a distance of 30 cm from the surface

Solution:

k T0  Ti 
Heat flux, q 0  ……. (1)
t

[From HMT data book page no. 58]

[HMT data book page no. 1]

Properties of aluminum

Thermal diffusivity,  = 84.18  10-6 m2/s

Thermal conductivity, k = 204.2 W/mK.

204 .2T0  298 

(1)  0.25  10 6 
  84.18  10  6  600

T0 = 785.68 K
(ii) For semi infinite solid,

T x  T0  x 
 erf   [From HMT data book page no. 58]
Ti  T0  2 t 

T x  T0
 erf Z 
Ti  T0
……. (2)

Where
 x0
Z
2 t
0.30
 Z 
2 84 .18  10  6  600

Z = 0.667

Z = 0.667, corresponding erf (Z) is 0.65663

[From HMT data book page no. 59]

erf (Z) = 0.65663

T x  T0
(2)   0.65663
Ti  T0
T x  785 .68
  0.65663
298  785 .68

==> T x = 465. 45 K

Temperature at a distance at 30 cm is 465.45 K

Result:

1. Surface temperature, T0 = 785.65 K

2. Temperature at a distance of 30 cm, T x = 465.45 K