Thermal Conductivity Formula
Every material has its own capacity to move and transfer heat. The formula to calculate thermal conductivity k is given by:
k = Q × ΔT × L/A
where,
- k is Thermal Conductivity
- Q is Rate of Heat Transfer
- L is Thickness of Material
- A is Area of Material
- ΔT is Temperature Gradient
Thermal Conductivity Measurement
Thermal conductivity is determined from heat flow and temperature differential across samples by techniques such as Guarded Hot Plate method or Heat Flow Meter methods. Thus, measuring techniques need to be calibrated, samples prepared and temperature dependencies compensate for accuracy of measurements. This form of evaluation is necessary all through areas such as construction, electronics and energy where decisions on the choice of materials in production to achieve efficient heat management solutions are made.
Unit of Thermal Conductivity
A standard unit of thermal conductivity in the SI system(International System of Units) – Watts per Meter Kelvin, W/(mK).
Thermal Conductivity
Thermal conductivity is a property of materials that shows that heat can flow easily through the material. It is usually represented by the symbol ‘k’, but can also be represented by ‘λ’ and ‘κ’. The reciprocal of this quantity is known as thermal resistance. Materials with high thermal conductivity are used in heat sinks, while materials with low values of λ are used as thermal insulators.
In this article, we will learn about, Thermal Conductivity, Thermal Conductivity Formula, Thermal Conductivity Measurement, Examples, and others in detail.
Table of Content
- What is Thermal Conductivity?
- Thermal Conductivity Formula
- Steady-State Techniques of Thermal Conductivity
- Effect of Temperature on Thermal Conductivity in Metals
- Effect of Temperature on Thermal Conductivity in Non-Metals
- Factors that Affect Thermal Conductivity