Item Description

Scitech Free & Forced Convection Heat Transfer Unit Model TH-036 has been designed for students to study the phenomena of natural (free) and forced convection. The unit consists of mainly a bench mounted vertical air duct and a control panel. Demonstration of convection is achieved in this apparatus by studying temperature profiles and heat flux in the air duct with three alternative heat transfer surfaces, i.e. vertical flat plate, array of cylindrical pins and finned surface.

Each of these surfaces may be installed separately in the wall of the vertical duct. The surfaces incorporate an electrical heating element, and a temperature sensor for accurate temperature measurement. An acrylic window is provided in the duct wall opposite the mounted exchange surface to allow flow pattern visualization. For forced convection, a variable speed fan fitted to the duct draws ambient air through a flow straightener and over the exchange surface. The air velocity, whether occuring by free or forced convection, is indicated on a velocity detector probe of which is inserted in the tunnel upstream of the exchanger. A separate temperature probe measures the in-going and out-going air temperature of the selected exchanger.