Table of Contents

Objective: ....................................................................................... Error! Bookmark not defined.

Introduction: .................................................................................................................................... 2

Materials Required: ..................................................................................................................... 2

Apparatus Setup: ............................................................................................................................. 3

1. Plate A (Insulated Plate): ..................................................................................................... 3

2. Plate B (Non-insulated Plate): ............................................................................................ 3

3. Heat Source ......................................................................................................................... 3

4. Thermometers or Temperature Sensors .............................................................................. 3

Theory: ............................................................................................................................................ 3

Properties of Stainless Steel: ........................................................................................................... 4

Insulation Selection:........................................................................................................................ 4

Procedure: ....................................................................................................................................... 5

3D Design: ...................................................................................................................................... 5

Observations and Results: ............................................................................................................... 6

Conclusion: ..................................................................................................................................... 7
Title:

To check Temperature Variation within insulation and without

insulation

Objective:

To study and measure the temperature variation through convection using two stainless steel plates,
one of which is insulated with thermocol (expanded polystyrene foam), and observe the effects of
insulation on heat transfer.

Introduction:
The project "Temperature Variation through Convection" focuses on understanding how heat
transfers in fluids due to convection, a key process in thermal systems. Convection significantly
impacts various applications, from industrial operations to natural phenomena. This study
examines how temperature changes within a fluid as it moves, offering valuable insights into
thermal behavior under different conditions. By exploring these variations, we can enhance the
efficiency of heat transfer systems, optimize energy use, and improve engineering designs. The
project combines theoretical concepts with practical simulations to produce meaningful and
practical results.

Materials Required:
1. Two Stainless Steel Plates (same size, shape, and thickness)

2. Thermocol Sheets (for insulation)

3. Thermometers or Thermocouples (to measure temperature at different points)

4. Hot Water Source (for heat application)

5. Stopwatch or Timer (to monitor time intervals)

6. Calipers or Ruler (for measuring dimensions of plates)

 7. Insulation Tape (to attach thermocol to the plate)

Apparatus Setup:
1. Plate A (Insulated Plate): Attach thermocol insulation on one side of the plate. Ensure
that the insulation completely covers the plate's surface to prevent heat loss or gain through
conduction.

2. Plate B (Non-insulated Plate): This plate will be exposed to the environment without any
insulation.

3. Heat Source: Place both plates in a container with hot water at a constant temperature to
provide heat to the plates. Ensure that the plates are submerged in the water for uniform
heating.

4. Thermometers or Temperature Sensors: Place temperature sensors at different positions

on both plates to record the temperature variations over time. Ensure that readings are taken
at both the heated surface and the opposite surface.

Theory:
• Convection is the process by which heat is transferred through a fluid (in this case, air or
water) due to the movement of the fluid. The heated particles of the fluid gain energy and
move away from the heat source, transferring thermal energy to cooler regions.

• The addition of insulation (thermocol) will reduce the amount of heat lost by convection
from the insulated plate, affecting the temperature variation compared to the non-insulated
plate.

Material Selection:

Stainless steel is the ideal material for our experiment due to its exceptional corrosion
resistance, high strength, and durability. It withstands harsh environments, maintains structural
integrity under stress, and resists thermal fluctuations. Additionally, its non-porous surface
ensures hygiene and prevents contamination, while its recyclability aligns with sustainable
practices. Stainless steel's availability in various grades, like 304 and 316, offers flexibility for
 specific needs, making it superior to alternatives like carbon steel or aluminum. These
properties justify its selection, ensuring reliable and consistent experimental results.

Properties of Stainless Steel:

Property Description
Corrosion Resistance Resistant to rust and chemical damage due
to its chromium oxide layer.
Strength and Durability High tensile and yield strength, excellent
for withstanding mechanical stress.
Thermal Resistance Performs well at elevated temperatures and
resists thermal fluctuations.
Hygiene and Cleanability Non-porous and easy to clean, meeting
strict hygiene standards.
Recyclability 100% recyclable, reducing environmental
impact.
Aesthetic Appeal Shiny, rust-free surface with good finish
retention over time.
Versatility Available in various grades (e.g., 304, 316)
tailored for specific applications.

Insulation Selection:
Thermocol, also known as expanded polystyrene (EPS), is an excellent choice for insulation due
to its outstanding thermal properties and cost-effectiveness. Its low thermal conductivity
minimizes heat transfer, making it highly effective at maintaining temperature stability. Thermocol
is lightweight, easy to handle, and can be shaped to fit various applications, enhancing convenience
during installation. Additionally, it is moisture-resistant, preventing water absorption and
maintaining its insulating properties over time. Its affordability and wide availability make it an
economical option without compromising performance. These characteristics justify its selection
as an ideal insulating material for the project.
Procedure:
1. Submerge both stainless steel plates (Plate A and Plate B) in the hot water container.

2. Begin heating the water and ensure the water temperature is constant throughout the
experiment.

3. Measure the initial temperature of both plates before heating begins.

4. Record the temperature on both plates at regular intervals (e.g., every minute) for a period
of 10-15 minutes.

5. Make sure to take temperature readings at multiple points: one at the heated side, one at
the unheated side, and one at the surface of the insulation (for Plate A).

6. After the experiment, remove the plates and allow them to cool down, recording the cooling
rates for both plates (if desired).

3D Design:

Figure 1:Insulation of Vessels

Observations and Results:

Time (mint) Plate A (Insulated) – Temperature (°C) Plate B (Non-insulated) – Temperature (°C)
0 28 28
1 32 35
2 36 41
3 40 45
4 43 48
5 46 52
6 48 55
7 50 58
8 51 60
9 52 62
10 53 64
11 54 65
12 55 66
13 55.5 67

• Initial Temperature: Both plates was 28°C (room temperature).

• Temperature Increase: Plate B (non-insulated) shows a faster temperature increase

compared to Plate A (insulated). The absence of insulation on Plate B allows more heat
loss to the surrounding environment, thus heating up more quickly.

• Temperature Stabilization: Plate A, which has thermocol insulation, stabilizes at a lower

maximum temperature compared to Plate B. This indicates that thermocol reduces the rate
of heat loss by convection and slows down the temperature increase on the surface of the
plate.
 Applications:

• HVAC System Optimization

• Thermal Energy Management:

• Environmental Studies
• Renewable Energy
• Aerospace Applications
• Chemical and Process Industries

Conclusion:
From the observed results, we can conclude that thermocol insulation significantly reduces heat
loss due to convection, which in turn affects the temperature variation on the insulated plate (Plate
A). The non-insulated plate (Plate B) experiences a quicker rise in temperature, as heat is not
retained as efficiently by the surrounding air. The thermocol insulation prevents much of the heat
from escaping, leading to a slower temperature increase on the insulated plate.

This experiment demonstrates how insulation can affect heat transfer, specifically through the
process of convection, and provides insight into how materials like thermocol can be used to reduce
heat loss in various applications.