Convection Heat Loss Calculator

Formula

To calculate the Convection Heat Loss (Q):

\[ Q = h \cdot A \cdot (T_s - T_a) \]

Where:

\(Q\) is the convection heat loss (watts)
\(h\) is the convection heat transfer coefficient
\(A\) is the surface area (m²)
\(T_s\) is the surface temperature (°C)
\(T_a\) is the ambient temperature (°C)

What is Convection Heat Loss?

Convection heat loss refers to the transfer of heat from a surface to a fluid (such as air or water) that is in motion. This type of heat transfer occurs when there is a temperature difference between the surface and the fluid, causing the fluid to move and carry heat away from the surface. Convection heat loss is influenced by factors such as the convection heat transfer coefficient, the surface area, and the temperature difference between the surface and the fluid. It is a common phenomenon in various applications, including heating and cooling systems, industrial processes, and building insulation.

Example Calculation 1

Let's assume the following values:

Convection Heat Transfer Coefficient (h) = 10 W/m²·K
Surface Area (A) = 2 m²
Surface Temperature (T_s) = 50 °C
Ambient Temperature (T_a) = 20 °C

Using the formula:

\[ Q = 10 \cdot 2 \cdot (50 - 20) = 600 \]

The convection heat loss is 600 watts.

Example Calculation 2

Let's assume the following values:

Convection Heat Transfer Coefficient (h) = 15 W/m²·K
Surface Area (A) = 1.5 m²
Surface Temperature (T_s) = 70 °C
Ambient Temperature (T_a) = 25 °C

Using the formula:

\[ Q = 15 \cdot 1.5 \cdot (70 - 25) = 1012.5 \]

The convection heat loss is 1012.5 watts.