Log Condenser Calculator

LMTD Equation:

\[ LMTD = \frac{(T_{in} - T_{out})}{\ln\left(\frac{T_{cond} - T_{out}}{T_{cond} - T_{in}}\right)} \]

Inlet Temperature (T_in):

°C

Outlet Temperature (T_out):

°C

Condensing Temperature (T_cond):

°C

Log Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD):

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1. What is the Log Condenser Calculator?

The Log Condenser Calculator computes the Log Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD) for condenser applications using the standard LMTD formula. This is essential for heat exchanger design and analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the LMTD equation:

\[ LMTD = \frac{(T_{in} - T_{out})}{\ln\left(\frac{T_{cond} - T_{out}}{T_{cond} - T_{in}}\right)} \]

Where:

\( T_{in} \) — Inlet temperature (°C)
\( T_{out} \) — Outlet temperature (°C)
\( T_{cond} \) — Condensing temperature (°C)

Explanation: The LMTD represents the logarithmic average of the temperature difference between the hot and cold streams at each end of the heat exchanger.

3. Importance of LMTD Calculation

Details: Accurate LMTD calculation is crucial for proper heat exchanger design, performance analysis, and determining the required heat transfer area for condenser applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all temperature values in °C. Ensure that T_cond is different from both T_in and T_out, and that T_in is not equal to T_out for valid calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is LMTD used for?
A: LMTD is used in heat exchanger design to calculate the driving force for heat transfer between two fluids at different temperatures.

Q2: When is LMTD method applicable?
A: The LMTD method is applicable when the fluid temperatures and flow rates are constant, and the overall heat transfer coefficient is relatively constant.

Q3: What are the limitations of LMTD?
A: LMTD assumes constant physical properties, constant overall heat transfer coefficient, and no phase change in the heat exchanger.

Q4: How does LMTD differ for parallel vs counterflow?
A: Counterflow arrangements typically yield higher LMTD values than parallel flow for the same temperature conditions, making them more efficient.

Q5: What if the temperature difference is constant?
A: If the temperature difference remains constant throughout the heat exchanger, LMTD equals that constant temperature difference.