Heating Flow Rate Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the required fluid flow rate to meet a specific heating load based on the fluid's properties and temperature difference.
Purpose: It helps HVAC engineers and system designers calculate the necessary flow rate for heating systems to achieve desired heat transfer.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The heat load is divided by the product of density, specific heat, and temperature difference to determine the required volumetric flow rate.
Details: Proper flow rate calculation ensures efficient heat transfer, prevents system overloading, and helps in selecting appropriate pump sizes.
Tips: Enter the heat load in watts, fluid density (default 1000 kg/m³ for water), specific heat (default 4186 J/kg·K for water), and temperature difference (default 10 K). All values must be > 0.
Q1: What's the typical density for water?
A: Pure water at 20°C has a density of about 998 kg/m³, but we often use 1000 kg/m³ for simplicity.
Q2: Why is specific heat important?
A: It determines how much energy is needed to raise the fluid's temperature. Water has a high specific heat compared to other common fluids.
Q3: How does temperature difference affect flow rate?
A: Larger temperature differences require lower flow rates to achieve the same heat transfer, and vice versa.
Q4: Can I use this for cooling calculations?
A: Yes, the same formula applies for cooling systems - just consider the heat load as heat to be removed.
Q5: What if my fluid isn't water?
A: Simply input the correct density and specific heat values for your fluid (e.g., glycol mixtures have different properties).