RAJALAKSHMI ENGINEERING COLLEGE

Thandalam, Chennai – 602 105

DEPARTMENT OF MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

ME 19512 THERMAL ENGINEERING LAB - II

V SEMESTER MECHANICAL ENGINEERING

LAB MANUAL

NAME: …………………………………………

CLASS: …………………………………………

ROLL NO: …………………………………………

 Department of Mechanical Engineering

DEPARTMENT VISION

To provide a world class Mechanical Engineering education through innovation and excellence in Teaching
and Research.

DEPARTMENT MISSION

• To impart high quality technical education and prepare Mechanical Engineers with all round knowledge
of multi-disciplinary branches of Engineering and Technology.

• To foster skill sets required to be a global professional for industry, research and technology management.

• To provide consultancy to the neighborhood industries.

• To cultivate the spirit of entrepreneurship.

PROGRAMME EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

PEO I
To provide students with sound foundation in the mathematical, scientific and engineering fundamentals
necessary to formulate, analyze and solve engineering problems and to prepare them for graduate studies
and for successful careers in industry.
PEO II
To impart students with skills for design, improvement and installation of Mechanical and allied integrated
systems of men and material.
PEO III
To educate the students on designing the modern mechanical systems and expose them to industrial
practices for better employability and adaptability.
PEO IV
To instill the values, skills, leadership and team spirit for comprehensive and wholesome personality, to
promote entrepreneurial interest among students and to create a fervor for use of Engineering in addressing
societal concerns.

PROGRAMME OUTCOMES (POS)

Engineering Graduates will be able to:

1. Engineering knowledge: Apply the knowledge of mathematics, science, engineering fundamentals, and
an engineering specialization to the solution of complex engineering problems.
2. Problem analysis: Identify, formulate, review research literature, and analyze complex engineering
problems reaching substantiated conclusions using first principles of mathematics, natural sciences, and
engineering sciences.
3. Design/development of solutions: Design solutions for complex engineering problems and design
system components or processes that meet the specified needs with appropriate consideration for the public
health and safety, and the cultural, societal, and environmental considerations.
4. Conduct investigations of complex problems: Use research-based knowledge and research methods
including design of experiments, analysis and interpretation of data, and synthesis of the information to
provide valid conclusions.
5. Modern tool usage: Create, select, and apply appropriate techniques, resources, and modern engineering
and IT tools including prediction and modeling to complex engineering activities with an understanding of
the limitations.
6. The engineer and society: Apply reasoning informed by the contextual knowledge to assess societal,
health, safety, legal and cultural issues and the consequent responsibilities relevant to the professional
engineering practice.
7. Environment and sustainability: Understand the impact of the professional engineering solutions in
societal and environmental contexts, and demonstrate the knowledge of, and need for sustainable
development.
8. Ethics: Apply ethical principles and commit to professional ethics and responsibilities and norms of the
engineering practice.
9. Individual and team work: Function effectively as an individual, and as a member or leader in diverse
teams, and in multidisciplinary settings.
10. Communication: Communicate effectively on complex engineering activities with the engineering
community and with society at large, such as, being able to comprehend and write effective reports and
design documentation, make effective presentations, and give and receive clear instructions.
11. Project management and finance: Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the engineering and
management principles and apply these to one’s own work, as a member and leader in a team, to manage
projects and in multidisciplinary environments.
12. Life-long learning: Recognize the need for, and have the preparation and ability to engage in
independent and life-long learning in the broadest context of technological change.

PROGRAM SPECIFIC OUTCOMES (PSOs)

1. To innovate a Mechanical System which meets the desired specifications and requirements using CAE
tools.
2. To explore alternate materials for automobile, manufacturing and process industries
3. To lead professional career in industries or an entrepreneur by applying Engineering and Management
principles and practices.

COURSE OUTCOMES:
On successful completion of this course, students will be able to
 Demonstrate the fundamentals of heat transfer including modes of heat transfer
 Predict the coefficient used in heat transfer application
 Analyze the performance of the refrigeration and air-conditioning systems
 Analyze the Performance of a reciprocating air compressor
 Analyze the performance of a fluidized bed cooling tower
CO PO PSO
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 1 2 3
1 3 - - - - - - - - - - 2 - - 1
2 3 1 - 1 - - - - - - - 2 - - 2
3 3 2 - 1 - - - - - - - 2 - - 3
4 3 1 - 1 - - - - - - - 2 - - 2
5 3 1 - 2 - - - - - - - 2 - - 3
1: Slight (Low) 2: Moderate (Medium) 3: Substantial (High)

CO MAPPING WITH LIST OF EXPERIMENTS

S.No CO Experiments
1 CO1 1 Thermal conductivity measurement using guarded plate
Demonstrate the
apparatus
fundamentals of heat
2 Thermal conductivity measurement of pipe insulation
transfer including
using lagged pipe apparatus
modes of heat transfer
3 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under natural
convection from a vertical cylinder
4 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under forced
convection from a tube
5 Determination of Thermal conductivity of composite
wall
6 Determination of Thermal conductivity of insulating
powder
7 Heat transfer from pin-fin apparatus (natural & forced
convection modes)
8 Determination of Stefan – Boltzmann constant
9 Determination of emissivity of a grey surface
10 Effectiveness of Parallel / counter flow heat exchanger
2 CO2 Predict the coefficient 1 Thermal conductivity measurement using guarded plate
used in heat transfer apparatus
application 2 Thermal conductivity measurement of pipe insulation
using lagged pipe apparatus
3 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under natural
convection from a vertical cylinder
4 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under forced
convection from a tube
5 Determination of Thermal conductivity of composite
wall
6 Determination of Thermal conductivity of insulating
powder

3 CO3 Analyze the 11 Determination of COP of a refrigeration system

performance of the 12 Determination of COP of an air-conditioning system
refrigeration and air-
conditioning systems
4 CO4 Analyze the 13 Performance test on a reciprocating air compressor
Performance of a
reciprocating air
compressor

5 CO5 Analyze the 14 Performance test in a fluidized bed cooling tower

performance of a
fluidized bed cooling
tower

CO -ATTAINMENT (Internal Marks)

COs CO1 CO2 CO3 CO4 CO5 OVER

EX.NO. 1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10 1,2,3,4,5,6 11,12 13 14 ALL

Avg.Marks

REMARKS
 INDEX

Ex. Max. Marks

Date Title Signature
No Marks obtained

Total
 LIST OF EXPERIMENTS

1 Thermal conductivity measurement using guarded plate apparatus

2 Thermal conductivity measurement of pipe insulation using lagged pipe apparatus
3 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under natural convection from a vertical cylinder
4 Determination of heat transfer coefficient under forced convection from a tube
5 Determination of Thermal conductivity of composite wall
6 Determination of Thermal conductivity of insulating powder
7 Heat transfer from pin-fin apparatus (natural & forced convection modes)
8 Determination of Stefan – Boltzmann constant
9 Determination of emissivity of a grey surface
10 Effectiveness of Parallel / counter flow heat exchanger
11 Determination of COP of a refrigeration system
12 Determination of COP of an air-conditioning system
13 Performance test on a reciprocating air compressor
14 Performance test in a fluidized bed cooling tower

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 LAGGED PIPE

Saw dust

Asbestos

Heater

Asbestos

Saw dust

T5 T6
T4 T1 T7 T2 T8 T3

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Thermal conductivity of pipe insulation using
Date:
lagged pipe apparatus
Aim:

To determine the thermal conductivity of pipe insulation using lagged pipe apparatus.

Specifications:

Radius of the asbestos lagging, r2 = 20 mm

Radius of the heater, r1 = 10 mm

Length of the heater, l = 0.5 m

Radius of the saw dust, r3 = 40 mm

Formula Used:

k12πl∆t k22πl∆t
Q= r2 or r3
ln (r ) ln (r )
1 2

Where ∆t is the temperature across the lagging.

k1 is the thermal conductivity of the asbestos lagging material

k2 is the thermal conductivity of saw dust

l is the length of the cylinder.

Description:

The insulation is defined as a material, which retards the heat flow with reasonable
effectiveness. Heat is transferred through insulation by conduction, convection and radiation
or by the combination of the three. There is no insulation that is 100 % effective to prevent
the flow of heat under the temperature gradient.

The experimental set up in which the heat is transferred insulation by conduction is

under study in the given apparatus. The apparatus consists of a heater with asbestos lagging.
The assembly is inside a MS pipe, which is filled with saw dust.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation

Saw dust Temperature,

Heater Temperature, ℃ Asbestos Temperature, ℃
Volts, Current, ℃
V amp Avg. Avg. Avg.
𝐓𝟏 𝐓𝟐 𝐓𝟑 𝐓𝟒 𝐓𝟓 𝐓𝟔 𝐓𝟕 𝐓𝟖
Temp. Temp. Temp.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Procedure:

1. Switch on the unit and check if all the channels of temperature indicator showing
proper temperature
2. Switch on the heater using the regulator and keep the power input at some particular
value
3. Allow the unit to stabilize for about 20 to 30 minutes.
4. Now note down the ammeter, voltmeter reading which gives the heat input.
Temperatures 1, 2 and 3 are the temperature of heater rod, 4, 5 and 6 are the
temperatures on the asbestos layer. 7 and 8 are the temperatures on the saw dust
lagging. The average temperature of each cylinder is taken for calculation.
5. The temperatures are measured by thermocouple (Fe/Ko) with multipoint digital
temperature indicator.
6. The experiment is repeated for various heat inputs.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Result:

1. The heat flow from the heater to outer surface of asbestos lagging, Q =

2. The thermal conductivity of the saw dust, k2 =

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation

Main Heater Ring Heater Cooling Plate Thermal

Conductivity
V Volts I amp T1℃ T2℃ V Volts I amp T3℃ T4℃ T5℃ T6℃
K W/m K

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Thermal conductivity measurement by guarded plate
Date:
method
Aim:

To determine thermal conductivity of insulating material by Guarded hot plate method.

Specifications:

Diameter of the heating plate : 100 mm

Width of the heating ring : 37 mm

Inside diameter of the heating ring : 110 mm

Outside diameter of the heating ring : 180 mm

Maximum thickness of the specimen : 25 mm

Minimum thickness of the specimen : 6 mm

Duct Size : 200 mm x 200 mm x 800 mm length

Multichannel digital temperature Indicator : 0 – 300 ℃ using Chromel / Alumel thermocouple

Ammeter : 0 – 2 amp and Voltmeter 0 – 200 Volts.

Dimmerstat : 2 amps, 240 Volts.

Formulae Used:

W1
Thermal Conductivity, k =
2A(Th− T c)
[ ⁄L]

Where the main heater input, W1 = V1 × I1Watts

T1 + T2 T5 + T6 π(0.10 + X)2
Th = ℃, Tc = ℃ and A = m2
2 2 4
Where X, Width of the gap between the plates = 0.005 m

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II
Description:

The heater plate is surrounded by a heating ring for stabilizing the temperature of the
primary heater and prevents heat loss radially around its edges. The primary and guarded heater
are made up of mica sheets which is wound by closely spaced nichrome wire and packed with
upper and lower mica sheets. These heaters together form a flat with upper and lower copper
plates and rings form the heater plate assembly. Two thermocouples are used to measure the
hot face temperature at the upper and lower central heater assembly copper plates. Two more
thermocouples are used to check balance in both the heaters. Specimen is held between the
heating and cooling unit on each side of the apparatus. Thermocouple No.5 and thermocouple
No. 6measure the temperature of the upper cooling plate and lower cooling plate respectively.
The cooling chamber is a composite assembly of aluminium casting and aluminium cover with
entry and exit adapter for water inlet and outlet.

Procedure:

1. The specimen is placed on either side of the plate assembly.

2. The outer container containing glass wool insulation is fixed over test assembly.
3. The cooling circuit is started.
4. Input is given to the central and guard heaters through separate single phase supply lines
with dimmer stat for each line and is adjusted to maintain desired temperature.
5. The guard heater input is adjusted in such a way that there is no radial heat flow which
is checked from thermocouple readings and is adjusted accordingly.
6. The input to the central heater and thermocouple readings are recorded every 10 minutes
till a reasonably steady state condition is reached.
7. Readings are recorded in the observation table and the values are calculated.

Precautions:

1. Keep the dimmer stat to zero voltage position before start. Increase the voltage gradually.
2. Start the cooling circuit before switching ON the heaters and adjust the flow rate so that
practically there is no temperature rise in the circulation.
3. Keep the heater plate undisturbed and adjust the cooling plates after keeping samples
with the help of nuts gently.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 4. While fixing the insulation cover, be careful that heater and thermocouple connections as
well as water connections are not disturbed.
5. For ensuring that no radial heat transfer is there, generally outer heater input is about 2.5
to 3 times greater that of central heat input.

Result:
Thermal conductivity of the specimen by guarded hot plate method, k =

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Ex. No: Determination of emissivity
Date:

Aim:

To determine the emissivity of the test plate using emissivity measurement apparatus.

Specifications:

Diameter of the plates, D = 0.16 m

Thickness of the plates, t = 0.009 m

Formula Used:
Wb − WT = ςA[T4 − T4](1 − ε)
s E

Where, Heat input to black plate, Wb = V × I Watts

Heat input to black plate, WT = V × I Watts

Stefan Boltzmann Constant, ς = 5.667 × 10−8 W⁄m4K

Plate surface temperature, Ts = T1 = T2

Enclosure temperature, TE = T3

Emissivity of the test plate = ε

π
Surface area of the plate, A = 2 × × D2 + (π × D × t)
4

Description:

The apparatus uses comparator method for determining the emissivity of test plate. It
consists of two aluminium plates, of equal physical dimensions. Mica heaters are provided inside
the plate. The plates are mounted in a enclosure to provide undisturbed surroundings. One of
the plates is blackened outside for using it as a comparator (for black surface,ε = 1). Another
plate is having natural surface finish. Input to heater can be controlled by separate dimmerstat.
Heat input is measured on common ammeter and voltmeter. One thermocouple is fitted on the
surface of each plate to measure the surface temperature with digital temperature indicator. By
adjusting input to the heaters, both the plates are brought to same temperatures, so that
conduction and convection losses from both the plates are equal and difference in input is due

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation

Enclosure Temperature, T3=

Input
Surface
Plate
Temperature ℃
V Volts I amps

Test Plate T1=

Black Plate T2=

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

to different emissivity. Holes are provided at back side bottom and at the top of enclosure foe
natural circulation of air over the plates. The plate enclosure is provided with Perspex acrylic
sheet at the front.

Procedure:

1. One of the plates is blackened by means of lamp black.

2. The dimmer stat is kept at zero position.
3. Switch on the main supply.
4. The toggle switch is shifted towards black plate side.
5. The dimmer stat is adjusted to get 110 – 220 V supply to black plate.
6. The toggle switch is shifted towards the test plate.
7. Adjust the dimmer stat to apply the voltage slightly less than that of black plate.
8. After reaching steady state, the dimmer stat is adjusted to get same temperature on both
the plates.
9. The temperature readings are noted down after reaching the steady state.

Precautions:

1. Black plate should be perfectly blackened

2. Never put your hands over the holes provided.
3. Keep at least 200 mm distance between the back side of unit and the wall.
4. Operate all the switches and knobs gently.

Result:

Emissivity of the test plate, ε = ………….. at ............ K

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Effectiveness of parallel/counter flow heat exchanger
Ex. No:
Date:

Aim:

To determine the overall heat transfer co efficient, LMTD and effectiveness of

parallel/counter flow heat exchanger.

Specifications:

Heat exchanger

a. Inner tube - 13 mm ID, 15 mm OD

b. Outer tube - 27 mm ID, 32 mm OD
c. Length - 1.6 m

Electric heater - 3 kW capacity to supply hot water

Formula Used:

1. Effectiveness of heat exchanger:

Actual heat transfer in heat exchanger
ϵ=
maximum heat transfer

ϵ = mhCp(Thi − Tho)
m C (T − T )
c p hi ci

Where, Cp - Specific heat of water

1
Mass flow rate of hot water, mh =
th

1
Mass flow rate of cold water, mc =
tc

th – time taken for collecting 1 litre of hot water

tc – time taken for collecting 1 litre of cold water

Thi – hot water inlet temperature, ℃

Tho – hot water outlet temperature, ℃

Tci – cold water inlet temperature, ℃

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Hot Water Cold Water

Type of Time Time

flow taken for taken for
Inlet Outlet Inlet Outlet
collecting collecting
Temperature Temperature Temperature Temperature
𝐓𝐡𝐢 𝐓𝐡𝐨 1 litre of 𝐓𝐡𝐢 𝐓𝐡𝐨 1 litre of
water water
th sec tc sec

Parallel
flow

Counter
flow

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Tco – cold water outlet temperature, ℃

1. Logarithmic Mean Temperature Difference, LMTD, ∆Tm

Ti − To
∆Tm = Ti
ln ( ⁄T )
o

Where for parallel flow, Ti = Thi − Tci and To = Tho − Tco

counter flow, Ti = Thi − Tco and To = Tho − Tci

2. Inside overall heat transfer co efficient

mhCp(Thi − Tho)
Ui =
∆TmAI
1
Where, Mass flow rate of hot water, mh =
th

Cp - Specific heat of water

Inside surface area, AI = πdil m2

3. Outside overall heat transfer co efficient

mcCp(Tco − Tci)
Uo =
∆TmAo
1
Where, Mass flow rate of hot water, mh =
th

Cp - Specific heat of water

Outside surface area, Ao = πdol m2

Description:

The apparatus consists of two concentric tubes in which fluids pass. The hot fluid is hot
water which is obtained from an electric geyser. Hot water flows through the inner tube in one
direction. The cold fluid is the cold water which flows through the annulus. The control valves are
provided so that the direction of cold water can be kept parallel or opposite to that of hot water.
Thus the heat exchanger can be operated either as parallel or opposite to that of hot water. Thus
the heat exchanger can be operated either as parallel or counter flow heat exchanger. The
temperatures are measured with thermocouples. Thus the overall heat transfer co efficient, LMTD
and effectiveness of heat exchanger can be calculated for both parallel and counter flow

Calculations

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II
Procedure:

1. Open the water supply valve, the water supply is adjusted for hot and cold sides.
2. Keep the valves V2 & V3 in closed position and V1 & V4 in open position.
3. The thermometers are inserted into the thermometer pockets.
4. The geyser is switched ‘ON’.
5. When the temperatures remain steady, the temperature readings are noted down.
6. Then the time for 1 litre of hot water and cold water is found out by using stop watch and
the measuring jar.
7. For counter flow the valves V2 & V3 in open position and V1 & V4 is closed.
8. The same procedure is repeated for taking readings.

Precautions:

1. Never switch on the geyser unless there is water supply through it.
2. If the red indicator on geyser goes off during operation, increase the water supply,
because it indicates that water temperature exceeds the set limits.
3. Ensure steady water flow rate and temperature before noting down the readings, as
fluctuating water supply can give erratic results.

Result:

Effectiveness of the heat exchanger

a. Parallel flow = …………

b. Counter flow = …………

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Thermal Expansion
Properties Capillary Tube
valve

Ambient Temperature ℃ ℃

Evaporator chilled water temperature ℃ ℃

Compressor, Sm = sec Compressor, Sm = sec

Time taken for 10 revolutions of
energy meter disc
Heater, So = sec Heater, So = sec

Capillary Tube Thermal Expansion valve

Pressure Pressure
S.No Properties Temp. h Temp.
kg/m 2
kg/m2 h kJ/kg
kg/cm2 ℃ kJ/kg kg/cm2 ℃
absolute absolute
Evaporator outlet
1 P1 = T1 = P1 = T1 =
compressor inlet
2 Compressor outlet
P2 = T2 = P2 = T2 =
condenser inlet
3 Expansion device inlet,
P3= T3= P3= T3=
condenser outlet
4 Expansion device
P4= T4= P4= T4=
outlet, evaporator inlet

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Determination of COP of a refrigeration system
Date:

Aim:

a. To conduct performance test on the refrigeration system to determine COP using

i. Capillary tube
ii. Thermostatic expansion valves as throttling expansion device.
b. To determine the capacity of the plant and refrigerant flow rate.

Specifications:

Make : ALMECH

Type : Vapour compression refrigeration system

Refrigerant : Freon 12

Compressor : Hermetically sealed Kirloskar compressor

Condensor : finned type air cooled

Evaporator : Calorimeter type with water heater arrangement. Energy

input to heater is equal to the cooling effect to maintain the required temperature of water
in the heater.

Throttling Expansion device : Capillary tube/ thermostatic expansion valve with control
valves

Formula Used:

1. Input to the compressor, Qc = ηm × Qm kJ/min

Mechanical efficiency of the compressor, ηm = 80 %
10×3600×60
Motor input power, Qm = kJ/min
1200×Sm

Sm = Time taken for 10 revolutions of energy meter disc in sec

Energy meter constant = 1200 rev/kWh
10×3600×60
2. Refrigerating effect/ heater input power, Qo = kJ/min
1200×So

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculation - Capillary Tube:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 So = Time taken for 10 revolutions of energy meter disc in sec
Refrigerating effect Qo
Refrigerating capacity = = ton
210 210
3. Actual COP of the refrigerating system
Refrigerating effect Qo
COP for cooling = =
input to the compressor Qc
Qo×60
4. Mass flow rate of the refrigerant, m = kg/min
qo

qo = h1 − h4
h1 = enthalpy corresponding to P1 & T1 (super heat region)
h3 = h4 = enthalpy corresponding to P3 & T3 (sub cooled region)
h1−h4
5. Theoritrical COP =
h2−h1

6. Relative COP =
Actual COP
Theoritical COP

Description:

The test rig is a vapour compression system using the refrigerant Freon 12. The system
consists of a compressor, a condenser, an expansion device and an evaporator. For throttling
expansion two devices are provided – capillary tube and thermostatic expansion valve. Any one
of two devices may be used by closing the other one with the controls. Evaporator consists of a
refrigerated SS vessel of required capacity placed inside a well insulated wooden box and provided
with

i. Evaporator coil
ii. Manual stirrer
iii. Electric heater, 230 V,AC
iv. Sensing bulb of a low temperature thermostat
v. a high temperature thermostat
vi. a thermometer to measure the chilled water temperature

Procedure:

1. Select the thermostatic expansion valve line by opening the shut off valve on this line and
closing one on the capillary line. The solenoid manual switch is switched ON.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculation - Thermal Expansion valve

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 2. Start the compressor and run for some time so that the chilled water temperature in the
evaporator calorimeter is lowered to about 15 ℃.
3. Switch ON the heater and slowly increase the power (clock wise rotation of control knob)
so that an equilibrium is reached between refrigeration capacity at about 15 ℃ and heater
input while the compressor runs without ON – OFF regulation. If ON - OFF cuts off,

increase the heater input and again balance 15 ℃.

4. Connect energy meter to motor by keeping the knob by the selector switch against
position M. Note time taken for 10 revolutions of the energy meter disc.(Say Sm sec)
5. Rotate the selector switch knob and keep against H so that energy meter is connected to
heater. Note time taken for 10 revolutions of the energy meter disc.(Say So sec)
6. Note the pressure and temperature readings at locations 1, 2, 3 & 4 as mentioned in the
table.
7. Switch OFF the heater and the mains.
8. Repeat the refrigeration test with capillary tube as expansion device.
9. Select the capillary tube line by opening the shut off valve on this line and closing one on
thermostatic expansion valve line. The solenoid manual switch is switched OFF.

Result:

Type of Refrigerant
Theoretical Relative Refrigeration
Expansion mass flow Actual COP
COP COP Capacity
Device rate

Thermal
Expansion
valve

Capillary
Tube

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

1. Thermal Expansion valve as expansion device

Dry bulb Wet bulb Specific

S.NO. Measuring Points temperature temperature enthalpy from
℃ ℃ chart, kJ/kg

1 Ambient air td1= tw1= h 1=

Chilled air after

2 td2= tw2= h 2=
evaporator coil

Pitot tube water level manometer difference

3
in the air duct, dH = mm of water

4 Time taken for 10 revolutions in energy meter =

2. Capillary tube as expansion device

Dry bulb Wet bulb Specific

S.NO. Measuring Points temperature temperature enthalpy from
℃ ℃ chart, kJ/kg

1 Ambient air td1= tw1= h 1=

Chilled air after

2 td2= tw2= h 2=
evaporator coil

Pitot tube water manometer level difference

3
in the air duct, dH = mm of water

4 Time taken for 10 revolutions in energy meter =

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Determination of COP of an air-conditioning system
Date:

Aim:

To conduct performance test on an air conditioning unit to determine the co efficient of

performance.

Specification:

Make : ALMECH

Type : Vapour compression refrigeration – air conditioning system

Refrigerant : Freon 12

Compressor : Hermetically sealed compressor

Condensor : finned type, air cooled

Evaporator : Finned tube with air flow duct

Throttling Expansion device : Capillary tube/ thermostatic expansion valve with control
valves

Air flow : by a blower

Air flow measurement : by pitot tube

Air flow duct : 0.37 m x 0.17 m

Formula Used:

1. Air flow rate:

Pitot tube water manometer level difference, dH = …………………….m of water
density of water
Manometer pressure difference, dP = dH × m of air
density of air

Air velocity,V = √2 × g × dP m/sec

Mass flow rate, m = Aduct x V x 𝜌𝑎𝑖𝑟 kg/sec

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculation - Capillary Tube:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 2. Refrigeration effect:
Condition 1 refers to ambient and 2 refers to the chilled air.
td1 = Ambient dry bulb temperature

tw1 = Ambient wet bulb temperature

td2 = Chilled dry bulb temperature

tw2 = Chilled dry bulb temperature

From psychrometric chart,
Total enthalpy of air at condition 1, h1 = kJ/kg
Total enthalpy of air at condition 2, h2 = kJ/kg
Heat removed from air per kg = (h1 – h2) kJ/kg
Total heat removed by the air conditioner, Refrigeration effect = m x (h1 – h2) kW
3. Input energy to the air conditioner:
Energy meter constant, N = 1200 rev/kWhr
t = Time taken for 10 revolutions of energy meter disc in sec
(3600 X 10)
Input energy, E = kW
(N X t)

4. COP of air conditioner:

Refrigeration effect
COP =
Input energy

Description:

The test rig consists of the basic vapour compression refrigeration system along with air
flow system. The refrigeration side consists of a hermetically sealed compressor, a condenser, an
expansion device and an evaporator. For throttling expansion two devices are provided – capillary
tube and thermostatic expansion valve. Any one of two devices may be used by closing the other
one with the controls.

The evaporator unit consists of a number of coils and forms as Liquid refrigerant – air
heat exchanger. This unit absorbs heat from air to be chilled. A blower is used to circulate air
through the evaporator. The warm refrigerant vapour is then returned to the compressor. A
thermostat is provided to cut off the compressor when the air temperature reaches the required
set value. A pitot tube is provided to measure the mass flow rate of air which is cooled.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculation - Thermal Expansion valve

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Procedure:

1. Note the ambient dry bulb and wet bulb temperatures.

2. By controls, put into operation the thermostatic expansion valve in the refrigerant line.
3. Turn ON the air conditioner unit and set the thermostat at the required chill temperature.
4. At steady state condition, note the wet bulb and dry bulb temperatures of chilled air in
the duct.
5. Measure the air pressure difference across the pitot tube using the water manometer
provided in the air duct.
6. Note time taken for 10 revolutions of the energy meter disc to calculate the input power
to the air conditioner as a whole. This includes power input to compressor, condenser fan,
air blower.
7. Repeat the experiment by putting capillary tube into operation cutting off the thermostatic
expansion valve.

Result:

Type of
Refrigeration Input
Expansion Air Velocity Air flow rate COP
Effect energy
Device

Thermal
Expansion
valve

Capillary
Tube

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Performance test on two stage reciprocating air
Ex. No:
Date: compressor

Aim:

To conduct performance test on two stage reciprocating air compressor and to determine
its volumetric efficiency and isothermal efficiency.

Specifications:

Compressor:
Make : ALTECH
Diameter of low pressure cylinder : 70 mm
Diameter of high pressure cylinder : 50 mm
Stroke length : 90 mm
Maximum storage in storage reservoir : 8 kg/cm2
Speed : 710 rpm
Air inlet orifice:
Orifice diameter : 20 mm
Cd : 0.62
Motor:
Type : Induction motor with swinging type
dynamometer
Transmission efficiency : 0.95
Power : 3 hp
Speed : 1440 rpm
Formula used:
1. Volumetric efficiency:
Water head causing air flow, h = (h1~h2) mm of water
h x ρw
Air head causing flow, H = m of air
1000 𝑥 𝜌𝑎
Density of water, ρw = 1000 kg/m3
Density of air, ρa = 1.162 kg/m3

Actual volume of air compressed, Va = Cd × A × √2 g H m3/sec

Co efficient of discharge, Cd = 0.62
REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II
Tabulation:

Compressor Dynamometer Air inlet orifice manometer

Compressor Motor
S.No. delivery pressure, spring balance readings, mm of water
speed, Nc rpm speed, Nm
P kg/cm2 load, W kgf
h1 h2 h1~h2

1 0

2 2

3 4

4 6

5 8

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Area of the orifice, A =π d2 m2
4

Diameter of the orifice, d = 20 mm

π D2 L Nc
Theoretical volume of the compressed, Vt = m3/sec
4 X 60
Diameter, D = 0.07 m
Stroke length, L = 0.09 m
Nc = rpm of the compressor
Va
Volumetric efficiency = × 100 %
Vt
2. Isothermal efficiency:
W × Nm
Motor output = kW
2000 × 1.36
W = Dynamometer load, kg
Nm = Motor speed, rpm
motor output
Compressor input =
transmission efficiency
Transmission efficiency = 0.95
W × Nm
Actual compressor power input = 0.95 × kW
2000 × 1.36
Gauge pr. +Atmospheric pr. (P + 1)
Compression ratio, C = =
Atmospheric pr. 1
Pa × Va × ln C
Isothermal compressor power output = kW
75 × 1.36
Atmospheric pressure, Pa = 10300 kg/m2
Va = Actual volume of the air compressed in m3/sec
Isothermal compressor power output
Isothermal efficiency = × 100 %
Actual compressor power input
Description:
The test rig consists of an air inlet chamber, compressor with motor and air storage
reservoir tank. The air compressor is a two stage, reciprocating and air cooled. Air is sucked from
atmosphere and compressed in the first cylinder. The compressed air then passes through an air
cooled inter cooler into the second stage cylinder, where it is further compressed. The outlet
compressed air then goes to a storage reservoir provided with a safety valve. The safety

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations - Volumetric efficiency:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

valve operates an electrical switch that shuts off the motor when the pressure in the storage
reservoir exceeds the set limit.

Atmospheric air enters the LP compressor through an air chamber containing an orifice
plate and a U tube manometer to calculate the air flow rate. The compressor is driven by a motor
through belt. The induction motor is of swinging field type, which makes it possible to obtain the
compressor input power directly from the load on the dynamometer.

Procedure:

1. Close the outlet valve in storage reservoir.

2. Fill up the manometer with water up to half level.
3. Start the compressor and run it at a constant speed of 710 rpm. Observe the pressure
developing slowly in the storage reservoir.
4. At a particular test pressure, the delivery valve is adjusted so that the pressure in the tank
is maintained constant at the particular value.
5. Observe the following readings:
 Speed of the compressor
 Dynamometer load indicated by the spring balance
 Speed of the motor
 Manometer readings
 Pressure gauge readings
6. The experiment is repeated for various values of storage reservoir pressure
7. Observations are tabulated and results are calculated.

Precautions:

1. Check oil level in the compressor crank case.

2. The air inlet orifice should never be closed, otherwise the manometric liquid be sucked
into the tank.
3. At the end of the experiment, the outlet valve at the reservoir should be opened as the
compressor is to be started again at low pressure to prevent undue strain on the piston.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations - Isothermal efficiency:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Result:

Compressor Actual volume Theoretical

delivery of the air volume of air Compressor Compressor 𝜼vol 𝜼iso
S.No.
pressure, compressed, compressed, input, kW output, kW % %
kg/cm2 m3/sec m3/sec

Graph:

Delivery Pressure Vs Volumetric efficiency

Delivery Pressure Vs Isothermal efficiency

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Test Disc
Hemisphere Time interval
Temperature,
Temperature,℃ sec
T5 ℃

T1 =

T2 =

T3 =

T4 =

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Ex. No: Determination of Stefan-Boltzmann constant
Date:

Aim:

To determine the Stefan-Boltzmann constant of thermal radiation.

Formula Used:

δT
MCp
δt
Stefan Boltzman constant, σ= W⁄m2K4
A(T4 − T4)

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Where , Area of the test disc, A = 3.14 x 10-4 m2

Weight of the test disc, M = 5.2 x 10-2 kgSpecific

heat of copper, Cp = 381 J/kg K

δT = slope from the graph of temperature test disc with temperature in X- axis.
δt

(T1+T2+T3+T4)+273.15
TH = K
4

TD = T5 + 273.15 K

Description:

The apparatus consists of a water heated jacket of hemispherical shape. A copper test
disc is fitted at the center of jacket. The hot water is obtained from a water tank, fitted to the
panel, were water is heated by an electric immersion heater. The hot water is taken around the
hemisphere, so that hemisphere temperature rises. The test disc is then inserted at the centre.
Thermocouples are fitted inside hemisphere to average out hemisphere temperature. Another
thermocouple fitted at the centre of the test disc measures the temperature of test disc. A timer
with a smaller buzzer is provided to note down the disc temperature at the time interval of 5 sec.

Procedure:

1. Water inlet jacket is closed and fitted up with sufficient water in the heater tank.
2. The heater is switched ON.

Calculation:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II
 1. The test disc is blackened with lamp black.
2. Thermometer is inserted in the heater tank to check the water temperature.
3. Boil the water and switch off the heater.
4. Ensure the drain cock of water jacket is closed and the water inlet cock is opened.
5. After the water level reaches the indicated water level above the top of hemisphere, the
water inlet is closed. A piezometer tube is fitted to indicate water level.
6. Insert the test disc into the hole at the bottom of hemisphere.
7. The timer switch is kept in ON position and buzzer will start ringing.
8. The test disc temperature (i.e., channel no. 5) is noted down for each buzzer beep sound.
Repeat the procedure for 4 beep sound.

Result:

The Stefan-Boltzmann constant, ς = ………………………………….

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Temperature, ℃
Volt Amp
𝐓𝟏 𝐓𝟐 𝐓𝟑 𝐓𝟒 𝐓𝟓 𝐓𝟔 𝐓𝟕 𝐓𝟖

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Natural convection heat transfer from a vertical cylinder
Date:

Aim:

To determine the convective heat transfer coefficient for a vertical cylinder losing heat
by natural convection method.

Specifications:

1. Diameter of the tube, d = 38 mm

2. Length of the tube, L = 500 mm
3. Duct size = 200 mm x 200mm x 800 mm length
4. Multichannel digital temp. indicator = 0 - 300℃ using Chromel/Alumel
Thermocouple
5. Ammeter = 0 – 2 amp
6. Voltmeter = 0 – 200 Volts
7. Dimmer stat = 2 amp, 240 Volts

Formula Used:

hTL
= 0.59(Gr Pr)0.25 for 104 < 𝐺𝑟. 𝑃𝑟 < 108
K

hTL 1
= 0.13(Gr Pr) ⁄3 for 108 < 𝐺𝑟. 𝑃𝑟 < 1012
K

Where,

hT = heat transfer co efficient, W/m2 K

L = length of the cylinder, m

K = thermal conductivity of the fluid, W/mK

Pr = Prandtl Number

gL3β∆T
Grashof Number, Gr =
γ2

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 β, Co efficient of volumetric expansion for the fluid = 1
1/K
(TF+273)

g = acceleration due to gravity

γ = kinematic viscosity, m2/sec

∆T = (Ts − Ta)℃

(T1+T2+T3+T4+T5+T6+T7)
Average surface Temperature, Ts = ℃
7

Ambient Temperature, Ta = T8 ℃

(Ts+Ta)
Mean film temperature, Tf = ℃
2

All the properties of the fluids are determined at mean film temperature.

q − q1
Experimental heat transfer co efficient, hE = W/m2K
As(Ts − Ta)

Heat transfer rate, q = V x I Watts

Area of heat transferring surface, As =πdL m2

Ts = Average surface temperature, ℃

Ta = ambient temperature, ℃

q1 = ς As 0.6 (Ts4 − Ta4)

Stefan Boltzmann Constant, ς = 5.667 × 10−8 W⁄m2K

Description:

The apparatus consists of a brass tube fitted in a rectangular vertical duct. The duct is
open at top and bottom, forms an enclosure and serves the purpose of undisturbed surrounding.
One side of the duct is made up of Perspex for visualization. An electric heating element is kept
in the vertical cylinder which in turn heats the tube surface. The heat is lost from the cylinder to
the surrounding air by natural convection.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

The temperature of the vertical cylinder is measured by seven thermocouples. The heat input to
the heater is measured by an ammeter and voltmeter and is varied by dimmer stat.

Procedure:

1. The supply is switched ON and the dimmer stat is adjusted to get required voltage and
current.
2. The readings of voltmeter and ammeter are noted down.
3. Wait till steady state is reached, it is confirmed by temperature reading (T1 to T7).
4. Note down the temperature from T1 to T7.
5. The ambient temperature, T8 is noted.
6. The procedure is repeated for different heat inputs.

Precautions:

1. Keep the dimmer stat to zero volt position before switching ON main switch and increase
slowly.
2. Leave at least 200 mm space behind the equipment.
3. Operate the change over switch of temperature indicator gently from one position to
another.
4. Never exceed 80 Watts.

Result:

The heat transfer co efficient of the air with respect to vertical brass cylinder,

Theoretical heat transfer co efficient, hT = ……………………….

Experimental heat transfer co efficient, hE = ……………………….

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Temperature, ℃ Manometer
Volt Amp Difference,
𝐓𝟏 𝐓𝟐 𝐓𝟑 𝐓𝟒 𝐓𝟓 𝐓𝟔 𝐓𝟕
mm

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Forced convection inside a horizontal tube
Date:

Aim:
To determine the heat transfer co efficient under forced convection mode inside a
horizontal tube.

Specification:

1. Diameter of the tube : 33 mm ID

2. Length of the tube : 500 mm
3. Multichannel digital temp. indicator : 0 - 300℃ using Chromel/Alumel
Thermocouple
4. Voltmeter : 0 – 200 Volts
5. Dimmer stat : 2 amp, 240 Volts
6. Ammeter : 0 – 2 amp

Formulae Used:

q − q1
Experimental heat transfer co efficient, hE = W/m2K
As(Ts − Tm)

Area of heat transferring surface, As =πdL m2

(T2+T3+T4+T5+T6)
Average inside surface Temperature, Ts = ℃
5

T1+T7
Mean temperature of the air, Tm = 2
℃

Heat loss due to radiation, q1 = ς As 0.4 (Ts4 − Ta4)

Stefan Boltzman Constant, ς = 5.667 × 10−8 W⁄m2K

Heat gained by air, q = maCpa(T7 − T1)

m a = Q × ρa

Q = Cdao√2gha m3⁄s

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 ρw
ha = hw ( )
ρa

Density of air, ρa = 1.172 kg/m3

Co efficient of discharge, Cd = 0.64

π 2
Cross sectional area of the orifice,
a0 = 4 do

Diameter if the orifice, do= 22 mm

hTd
= 0.023(Re)0.8(Pr)0.4 for Re > 2000
Kair

hTd
= 4.36 for Re > 2000
Kair

Where,

hT = heat transfer co efficient, W/m2 K

Kair = thermal conductivity of the fluid, W/mK

V×D
Reynolds Number, Re =
γ

γ = kinematic viscosity, m2/sec

Q
Velocity, V =
at

Cross sectional area of the tube, at = 8.33 x 10-4 m2

Pr = Prandtl Number

All the properties of the fluids are determined at mean film temperature.

Description:

Whenever the fluid is being forced over the heated surface, forced convection heat
transfer occurs. The apparatus consists of a circular pipe, through which cold fluid (air) is forced.
Pipe is heated by a band heater outside the pipe. Temperature of the pipe is measured

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

with thermocouples attached to pipe surface. Heater is measured by a voltmeter and ammeter.
Thus, heat transfer rate and heat transfer co efficient can be calculated.

Procedure:

1. Switch ON main supply.

2. The heater input is adjusted by means of dimmer stat.
3. Blower is started to force the air.
4. When the steady state is attained, note down the temperatures T1 to T7, voltmeter
readings and manometer readings.

Precautions:

1. Keep the dimmer stat to zero volt position and blower OFF before switching ON main
switch and increase slowly.
2. Operate all the switches and controls gently.
3. Do not obstruct the flow of air while experiment is going on.
Result:

The heat transfer co efficient of the air with respect to horizontal tube,

Theoretical heat transfer co efficient, hT = ……………………….

Experimental heat transfer co efficient, hE = ……………………….

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Heat transfer from pin-fin (natural & forced
Ex. No:
Date: convection modes)

Aim:
To determine the temperature distribution and effectiveness of fin by natural and forced
convection mode.
Specification:
1. Fins : 12 mm diameter, 102 mm effective length
2. Duct : 150 mm x 100 mm cross section, 1000 mm length
3. Orifice : 22 mm diameter, Cd = 0.64
4. Dimmer stat : 0-230 V, 2 amps
5. Voltmeter : 0-250 V
6. Ammeter : 0-2 amps
7. Water manometer connected to orificemeter
8. Multichannel digital temperature indicaror.
Formula Used:
Natural Convection:
Nu Kair
h= W/m2K
D
Where,
1
⁄6
Nusselt number, Nu = 1.1 (Gr Pr) for 10−1 < 𝐺𝑟 𝑃𝑟 < 104
1
Nu = 0.53(Gr Pr) ⁄4 for 104 < 𝐺𝑟 𝑃𝑟 < 108
1⁄ 9 12
( 3
Nu = 0.13 Gr Pr) for 10 < 𝐺𝑟 𝑃𝑟 < 10

gL3β∆T
Grashof Number, Gr =
γ2

g = acceleration due to gravity

γ = kinematic viscosity at mean film temperature, m2/sec

∆T = (Tm − Tf)℃

(T1+T2+T3+T4+T5)
Tm = ℃
5

Tf = T 6 ℃

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:
Natural convection
Temperature, ℃ Duct fluid
Input, V x I
temperature,
Watts T1 T2 T3 T4 T5
T6 ℃

Forced convection
Temperature, ℃ Manometer
Input, V x I
of water, mm
Watts T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6
of water

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 (Tm+T𝐹)
Mean film temperature, Tmf = ℃
2

β, Co efficient of volumetric expansion for the fluid = 1

1/K
(Tm𝐹+273)

Pr = Prandtl Number

Kair = Thermal conductivity of air at mean film temperature

h = heat transfer co efficient, W/m2K

Heat transfer rate q = √P h A Kf (T1 − Tf) tanh(mL) Watts

Where, Circumference of the fin, P = π D, m

π
Cross sectional area of the fin, A = d2, m2
4

Kf = thermal conductivity of the fin material.

= 110 W/mK for brass

= 46 W/mK for mild steel

= 232W/mK for aluminium

hP
m =√
K𝐹 A

Forced Convection:

Nusselt number, Nu = 0.615(Re)0.466 for 40 < 𝑅𝑒 < 4000

Nusselt number, Nu = 0.714(Re)0.168 for 4000 < 𝑅𝑒 < 40000
V×D
Reynolds Number, Re =
γ

γ = kinematic viscosity, m2/sec

Q
Velocity, V = m/sec
area of the duct

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculation:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Cross sectional area of the duct = 0.15 x 0.1 m2

π 2 ρw
Q=C d √2g H
d o
4 ρa

tanh(mL)
Effectiveness of fin =
mL

Description:

The apparatus consists of a simple pin fin which is fitted in a rectangular duct. The duct
ia attached to suction end of a blower. One end of the fin is heated by an electrical heater.
Thermocouples are mounted along the length of fin and a thermocouple notes the duct fluid
temperature. When top cover over the fin is opened and heating started, performance of fin is
opened and heating started. Performance of fin from natural convection can be evaluated. For
forced convection, performance can be evaluated with top cover closed and by starting the
blower.

Procedure:

Natural Convection:

1. The dust cover over the fin is opened

2. The main supply is switched ON.
3. Adjust the dimmer stat to required voltage.
4. After some time the temperature remains steady.
5. The temperature of the fin and dust fluid temperature is noted down.

Forced convection:

1. Close the duct cover over the fin.

2. Start the blower
3. Adjust the dimmer stat so that 100-110 Volts are supplied to the heater.
4. Note down all the temperatures and manometer difference, when the temperature
becomes steady.
5. Repeat the experiments at different temperature inputs and at different flow rates.

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Precautions:

1. Operate all the switches and controls gently.

2. Do not obstruct the suction of the duct or discharge pipe.
3. Open the duct cover over the fin for natural convection experiment.
4. Fill up water in the manometer and close duct cover for forced convection experiment.
5. Proper earthing to the unit is necessary.
6. While replacing the fins, be careful for fixing the thermocouples. incorrectly fixed
thermocouples may show erratic readings.

Result:

Effectiveness of the fin by

a. Natural convection = …………………..

b. Forced convection = ……………………

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Temperature ℃
Volt Amp
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Heat transfer through composite walls
Date:

Aim:
To determine total thermal resistance and thermal conductivity of composite wall.
Specification:
1. Slab size:
a. M.S : 25 cm x 25 mm
b. Bakelite : 25 cm x 10 mm
c. Brass : 25 cm x 10 mm
2. Nichrome heater wound on mica former and insulator with control unit capacity of
200 Watts
3. Heater control unit : 230 V, 0 – 2 amp single phase dimmer stat.
4. Voltmeter : 0 – 250 Volts.
5. Ammeter : 0 – 1 amp.
6. Multi channel digital temperature indicator
Formula Used:
(TA−TD)
Total resistance, R =
q
(T1−T2)
Where, TA = 2
℃
(T7−T8)
TD = 2
℃
Q
q= W/m2
A

Q = V × I Watts
Area of the plates, A = π d2
4

d = half diameter of plates

A = 0.0122718 m2
(q ×b)
Thermal conductivity of the slab, K = W/mK
(TA−TD)

Where, total thickness of composite slab, b = 0.045 m

Description:
The apparatus consists of different materials sandwiched between two aluminium plates.
Three types of slabs are provided on both sides of heater, which forms a composite structure. A
small hand press frame is provided to ensure perfect contact between the slabs. A dimmer stat

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

is provided for varying the input to the heater and measurements of input is carried out by a
voltmeter and ammeter. Thermocouples are embedded between interfaces of input slabs, to read
the temperature of the surface. The experiment can be conducted at various values of input and
calculation can be made accordingly.
Procedure:
1. The plates are arranged properly on both side of heater plate.
2. The hand press is operated to ensure perfect contact between the plates.
3. The box is closed by cover sheet to achieve steady environmental conditions.
4. Switch on the supply for heater. The dimmer stat is adjusted to get required voltage.
5. Water supply valve is opened.
6. The readings of all thermocouples are noted at an interval of 10 minutes until steady state
is reached.

Precautions:
1. Keep the dimmer stat zero before starting.
2. Increase the voltage slowly.
3. Keep all the assembly undisturbed.
4. Remove the air gap between plates slowly by moving hand press gently.
5. When removing the plates do not disturb the thermocouples.
6. Do not increase the voltage above 200 V.
7. Operate selector switch of temperature indicator slowly.

Result:
Thermal conductivity of the composite wall, K = ………………………..

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Temperature ℃
Volt Amp
T1 T2 T3 T4 T5 T6 T7 T8 T9 T10

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

 Ex. No: Thermal conductivity of insulating powder
Date:

Aim:
To determine thermal conductivity of insulating powder by sphere method.
Specifications:
1. Inner sphere : 100 mm diameter, halved construction.
2. Outer sphere : 200 mm diameter, halved construction.
3. Heater : Mica flat heater, fitted inside the inner sphere.
4. Controls : Main switch – 30 A DPDT Switch
Dimmer stat – 0-230V, 2 A capacity
5. Voltmeter : 0-200 V
6. Ammeter : 0-1 amp
7. Multi channel digital temperature indicator

Formula Used:

Heat input, q = V × I Watts

(T1 + T2 + T3 + T4)
Average inner temperature, Ti = ℃
4
(T5 + T6 + T7 + T8 + T9 + T10)
Average outer temperature, Ti = ℃
6
q(r0 − ri)
Thermal Conductivity, K = 4πr r W/mK
(T − T )
i o i o

Radius of the inner sphere, ri = 50mm

Radius of the outer sphere, ro = 100mm

Description:
The apparatus consists of a smaller (inner) sphere inside which is fitted a mica electric
heater. Smaller sphere is fitted at the center of outer of sphere. The insulating powder whose
thermal conductivity is to be determined is filled in the gap between two spheres. The heat
generated by heater flows through the powder to the outer sphere. The outer sphere loses heat
to the atmosphere. The input to the heater is controlled by dimmer stat and is measured by
voltmeter and ammeter. Four thermocouples are provided on the outer surface of the inner

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Calculations:

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

sphere and six thermocouples are on the inner surface of the outer sphere, which are connected
to a multichannel digital temperature indicator. The average of outer and inner sphere
temperature gives the temperature difference across the layer of powder.

Procedure:
1. The dimmer stat knob is kept in zero position.
2. Switch On the equipment.
3. Slowly rotate the dimmer stat knob, so that voltage is applied across the heater which
raises the temperature.
4. The dimmer stat is kept in the same position for getting steady state.
5. All the temperature and input of heater in terms of volts and current is noted down.
6. Procedure is repeated for different readings.

Precautions:
1. Operate all the switches and controls gently.
2. If thermal conductivity of the power other than supplied is to be determined, then gently
dismantle the outer sphere and remove the power, taking care that heater connections
and thermocouples are not disturbed.
3. Earthing is essential for the unit.

Result:
The thermal conductivity of the insulating powder = ……………………………….

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II

Tabulation:

Blower side Manometer Delivery side Manometer

Time for 10
Delivery mm of water mm of water
revolutions of
S.No. valve
Suction Delivery Difference Upstream Downstream Difference energy meter
condition
h1 h2 h1 ~ h 2 h3 h4 h3 ~ h 4 disc, sec

1 Fully closed

2 2nd open

3 3rd open

4 4th open

5 5th open

6 6th open

REC – MECH ME19512 – Thermal Engineering Lab II