11 Ionization Energy Example: Detailed Explanations

Compact fluorescent straight crop 300x145 1

In this article “Ionization energy examples” with their detailed explanations are derived. The meaning of higher ionization energy means facing the difficulty to subtract any electron from the chemical bonds.

11 + ionization energy examples are listed below,

Fluorescent lamp:

Fluorescent lamp is a very light weight vapor lamp which inside mercury is present. In the fluorescent lamp fluoresce is placed for this reason visible light is delivered.  Fluorescent lamp works in electric current. When electric current is deliver to the fluorescent lamp that time gas is energized the vapor of mercury from this ultraviolet radiation is emitted and the radiation of ultraviolet objective the coating of the phosphor in the liner wall of the lamp.

Ionization energy example
Image – Fluorescent lamp;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Fluorescent lamp main parts:

Electrodes:-

Inside the fluorescent lights two set electrodes are situated. The electrodes in fluorescent lights are attached with the fixture through two small size metal prongs. These prongs are clearly visible to the outside of the fluorescent lights. In the CFLs electrodes are not visible from the outer side because its base is screw type.

Starter:-

Only in the older type fluorescent lights have the component name starter. These starters are small metal cylinder. The starters of the fluorescent lights cause the delay of the electricity to the gas tube.

800px Disassembled USSR starter
Image – Starter;
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Tube:-

In the tube of the fluorescent light gas is placed. The usual fluorescent lights are tube shaped into the straight cylinder. In the CFLs, compact fluorescent light have a tube which is bending and look like U letter. In neon lights tubes are looks like words or graphics.

Gas:-

In the fluorescent light tube some gases are inset such as argon, xenon, neon and also vapor of mercury is placed. Gas of the fluorescent light is help to discharging the light. When a particular amount of voltage is applied the atoms of the ionized gas is charged and excited. At this moment proton of the ionized gas atoms also excited.

Phosphor coating:-

With the help of a metal named phosphor the inside tube of fluorescent light is coated. The coatings of the phosphor affect the colour emitting of the fluorescent light.

Ballast:-

In the fluorescent light the ballast can be two types one is electronic and another one is magnetic. In the new type of fluorescent light only the electronic ballast is present it is not too loud or hot like magnetic ballast.

Advantages of fluorescent lamp:-

  • Low heat radiation
  • Lower power consumption
  • Longer life
  • Not required warning up period
  • Good quality of light
  • Higher efficiency

Disadvantages of fluorescent lamp:-

  • Initial cost is high
  • Fluctuation of voltage is affected
  • Produce radio interface
  • Sometime light output is fluctuating

Electrical bulbs:

Electrical bulb is actually a simplest version of an electrical lamp. The electrical bulb is actually a very small size and simple light source which helps to brighten the dark place. The other name of the electrical bulb is incandescent bulb.

Application of Electrical bulb:-

  • In portable lighting the electrical bulb is widely used such as table lamps
  • In vehicle headlights and lights the electrical bulb is used
  • Commercial lighting
  • Household lighting
  • Advertising and decoration the electrical bulb is used.

Advantages of Electrical blub:-

  • No harassment in installation
  • Longer life period
  • Economical
  • Affordable
  • Easily available in verities shapes and sizes
  • Working period is also high
  • High output

Disadvantages of Electrical blub:-

  • Energy insufficient
  • Produce warm light
  • Need to handle very carefully because it is made of glass thus can brake easily
  • Breakable parts are very sharp can cut in the skin
  • Inside the electrical bulb mercury, argon is present for this reason the electrical bulb should be handle carefully.

Solvation:

Materials which are made of plastic they are attacked by chemical reaction and salvation. The process method of salvation only happened with polar solvents. The concept of salvation is distinct from solubility and dissolution.

ionization energy example
Image – Solvation;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Solvation can be explain as, the method in which chemical association is present between the solvent and molecules of solute.

The factors which are affecting solubility,

  • Pressure
  • Temperature
  • Surface area
  • ph
  • Nature of Solvent/Solute

Read more about Pressure vessel : It’s important facts and 10+ applications

Calcium nitride:

The formula of the calcium nitride is Ca3N2. The molar mass of the calcium nitride is 148.25 gram per mol. The calcium nitride can present in a lots of state.

Free radicals:

A definition of free radical is any molecular house is capable to contain electron in unpaired state independently. Radicals can be present in two state one is unstable and another is highly reactive.

The radical can give an electron to other molecules or can take electron from other molecules. When the radical can give an electron to other molecules that time it behave like oxidants and when the radical can take an electron from other molecules that time it behave like reluctant.

Free radical polymerization of tetrafluoroethylene
Image – Free radicals;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Some sources name of the free radicals is listed below,

  • Exercise
  • Smoking
  • Mitochondria
  • Inflammation
  • Phagocytosis
  • Ozone
  • Radiation
  • Pesticides
  • Pollutions of the environments
  • Industrial solvents
  • Xanthine oxidase

Condensation reactions:

The condensation reactions are a part of chemical reactions. In condensation reactions smaller size molecules join together and make a larger size molecule. In the condensation reactions monomers means the smaller size molecules made a bond and name colavent bond and this bond is allow the joining the molecules and to make larger molecules.

The examples of condensation reactions are Glucose, Galactose.

The formula of condensation reactions is,

AH + BOH ­-> AB +H2O

Where,

A = The molecules in condensation reactions is condensed

B = The molecules in condensation reactions is condensed

AB = Compound product in condensation reactions

Sodium chloride:

The regular salt chemical name is sodium chloride. Sodium chloride is an electrolyte and helps to regulate the total quantity of water in our human body. But this chemical element also causes lot of problem in human body. They are listed below,

  • Diseases of liver
  • Diseases of kidney
  • Congestive heart failure
  • High blood pressure
  • Fluid retention

Sodium Chloride preparation process:

When chloride and sodium mixed together then it is response to generate sodium chloride.

The formula in below,

2 Na (s) + Cl2 -> 2NaCl (s)

Hydrogen:

The hydrogen is a family member of chemical elements. It is a tasteless, colourless, odourless, flammable gaseous matter. The atom of the hydrogen contain a nucleus which surrounding have proton bearing which have the charge of positive electrical charge and an electron bearing is present which have the charge of negative electrical charge. In the whole universe hydrogen is one of the most abundant matters.

Three isotopes are present in the hydrogen. The isotope mass 1 is called protium and it symbol is H, and written as H1,  The isotope mass 2 is called deuterium and a nucleus is present which contain one proton one neutron and it symbol is d, and written as H2, The isotope mass 3 is called tritium and it symbol is t, and written as H3 and its nucleus has one proton two neutrons.

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Image – Isotopes of hydrogen;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Nitrogen:

In the periodic table of group 15 nitrogen is belonging. Nitrogen is lightest and non-metal of periodic table. In earth nitrogen is very important element. In the components of the nitrogen all proteins are placed. Nitrogen found in the system of living.

The atomic number of nitrogen is 7, atomic symbol is N. Most commons isotopes of nitrogen are Nitrogen – 14.

Applications of nitrogen:-

  • Food packaging
  • Manufacturing
  • Aircraft fuel system
  • Industry of light bulbs
  • Fire suppression system
  • Industry of chemical
  • Tire filling system
  • Manufacturing of electronics
  • Manufacturing of stainless steel
  • Fertilizer
1280px thumbnail
Image – Aircraft Fuel System;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Oxygen:

Pure form of oxygen is not flammable. It is a tasteless, colourless, odourless gaseous matter. In our surrounding some objects are present which are not burning in the air but can burn with the help of oxygen. Oxygen is very essential for our human life. The atomic number of oxygen is 8, atomic symbol is O.

It is reactive element and when it is added with another element oxide form. Oxygen could not make some oxide with some elements such as neon, argon, helium, and krypton.

Applications of oxygen:-

  • Mining
  • Rocket propulsion
  • Production in glass industry
  • Production in stone industry
  • Medical field
  • Biological field
  • For melting and cutting of the metals

Aluminium:

In the table of the periodic aluminium is 13th element means the atomic number of the aluminium is 13. Aluminium is higher reactive and it is always ready to combine with other elements, for this reason in environment aluminium not present itself it presence can be observe with other elements.

Aluminium has high electrical conductivity for this reason it is used in the cables of the electric. Aluminium is silver metal which have extremely high corrosion resistant compare to others metals.

Application of aluminium:-

  • Personal vehicle
  • Construction of ships
  • As a components in aircraft
  • Window frames
  • Power lines
  • Household
  • Industrial applications
  • Construction of trains
  • High rising building
800px Cessna172 CatalinaTakeOff
Image – Aircraft;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Frequent Asked Questions:-

Question: Ionization energy examples based on which equation?

Solution: The basic ionization energy equation is,

X(g) -> X (g) + e

More ionization energy equations,

1st equation of the ionization energy is,

X(g)  -> X +  (g) + e^-

2nd equation of the ionization energy is,

X(g)  -> X2 + (g) + e^-

3rd equation of the ionization energy is,

X2(g)  -> X3 + (g) + e^-

15 Thermal Radiation Example: Detailed Explanations

This article discusses about thermal radiation example. Radiation is nothing but a mode of heat transfer which does not need any medium for the transfer to take place.

It is notable fact that for radiation heat transfer to take place, even physical contact is not required. The heat gets transferred without any medium in between or physical contact between the two systems. We shall discuss more about different examples of radiation heat transfer.

What is heat transfer?

Heat transfer is the process in which thermal energy and entropy is transferred from one system to another.

Major factor which affects the heat transfer is the temperature difference between the two systems. The heat will flow always in the direction from high temperature to low temperature system. Although there are multiple modes of heat transfer but we shall limit our discussion to only radiation heat transfer.

thermal radiation example
Image: Different modes of heat transfer

Image credits: Kmecfiunit, cmglee, Heat-transmittance-means2CC BY-SA 4.0

What is radiation heat transfer?

In simple words, radiation heat transfer is the type of heat transfer in which the system at lower temperature absorbs, reflects or transmits the heat that is being emitted by system at higher temperature.

It is a notable fact that radiation heat transfer does not need any medium or physical contact. The best example of radiation heat transfer is Earth getting heated by the heat being emitted by sun. This transfer of heat takes place through radiation heat transfer. We shall study more examples of radiation heat transfer in the later sections of this article.

Example of radiation heat transfer

Radiation heat transfer takes place around us but we usually ignore it. If we look around, there are many examples where we can see radiation heat transfer taking place.

Let us see some common examples of radiation heat transfer. They are given below-

Heat transfer taking place inside microwave oven

Microwave oven is used to heat food. The microwave oven sends out electromagnetic waves which penetrate the food and makes it warm. This way the heat transfer takes place.

Earth getting heated by Sun

Sun sends out electromagnetic waves to the vacuum of space. These waves are collected by Earth as a result of which the planet gets heated up. This is the most common example of heat transfer done by radiation.

Heat being emitted by a radiator

A radiator in vehicle sends out heat to the surroundings. If we are standing near the radiator, we are bale to feel the heat due to radiation.

Light being emitted by an incandescent lamp

An incandescent lamp becomes hot after being lit for some while. This heat is transferred to the surroundings with the help of radiation heat transfer. If we are standing near this lamp, we will be able to feel the heat. This is due to Radiation heat transfer.

Gamma ray emission from a nucleus

Gamma rays are an example of electromagnetic waves. These waves don’t need any medium to travel hence we can say that these waves travel with the help of radiation. When gamma rays are emitted by nucleus, they travel with the help of radiation. Any object coming in its close vicinity may experience radiation effects.

Feeling warm when standing beside a car whose engine is hot

When a car is used for long period, the engine becomes hot due to its long operation duration. The engine surface is hot but we can feel the heat without even touching the engine itself. This happens as a result of radiation heat transfer from the surface of engine to its surroundings.

Heat coming out of hot food

We feel the heat from warm food without even touching it. The plate becomes hot due to conduction taking place. But when we feel the heat without touching the plate or food, it is because of radiation heat transfer.

Metal rod when heated emits heat to surroundings

When we heat a metal rod using an external heat source, the rod gets heated up by the process of conduction. This heated rod transfers the heat to surroundings using radiation heat transfer. We need not touch the rod in order to feel the heat, we can just put our hand near the rod and we will know the rod is warm or not.

Molten metal used in casting emits heat in the surroundings

For casting a product, metal is melted into liquid. This requires immense heat, this heat is then emitted back to the surroundings. This happens as a result of radiation heat transfer between molten metal and surroundings.

Magma emits heat to its surrounding areas

Similar to molten metals, magma is molten rock. These molten rocks emit heat to the surroundings with the help of radiation heat transfer.

Standing beside a fire makes us feel warm

Fire emits heat to the surroundings. Without touching fire also, one can get burns on his hands. We can say that fire emits heat by the process of radiation heat transfer.

Bike’s silencer emits heat when the bike is being driven or has just been driven

The silencer used in bikes become hot after a long ride. The silencer is so hot that our legs can feel the heat just by keeping them near the silencer. If we touch the silencer we are surely going to get burnt due to heat transfer by conduction. But when we feel hot without touching it, it is due to radiation heat transfer.

We feel warm when standing beside a stove

When we lit up a stove, the heat from the stove s transferred to the surroundings with the help of radiation heat transfer.

Laptop’s body emits heat when it is used for long hours

The electronics used in laptop get hot when the laptop is used for long hours. This heat is transferred to the surroundings with the help of radiation heat transfer.

Hot metal emits heat after being machined

A metal becomes hot after it gets machined. This heat is generated due to friction. This generated heat is emitted back to surroundings with the help of radiation heat transfer.

Internal Energy of an Ideal gas: Several Facts and Detailed Explanations:

The “Internal energy of an ideal gas” is not depending upon the path of a system which is closed but the internal energy of an ideal gas depends on the initial state and final state of the system.

From the law of thermodynamics we get a crystal clear concept about the internal energy of an ideal gas. The internal energy of an ideal gas can be explain as, the total amount of energy is amalgamated with the motion that could be vibration motion, rotation motion or translation motion of the molecules or atoms of a matter in the system.

Read more about Carnot Cycle: Its Important Features along with 16 FAQ’s

What is internal energy of an ideal gas?

For an ideal gas the amount of internal energy for a system only depend upon temperature. But for the real gas the amount of internal energy for a system depend upon temperature, volume, pressure.

The internal energy of an ideal gas is a property of extensive and the amount of energy of a gaseous matter cannot determine directly. The internal energy of an ideal gas is in a system the molecules of a gaseous matter, the amount of internal energy transferring in the form of thermodynamic work and heat.

Internal energy of an ideal gas
Image – The carnot heat engine of internal energy of an ideal gas;
Image Credit – Wikipedia
Thermally Agitated Molecule
Image – Temperature;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

For an ideal gas the total amount of internal energy is directly proportional to the temperature and also the total number of the molecules of mole of a substance which is present in the gaseous state.

Read more about Thermal diffusivity : It’s all Important Facts and FAQs

So mathematically the internal energy of an ideal gas can be express as,

dU = nCvdT…… eqn (1)

Or, U = CvnT…………. eqn (2)

From the equation (1) term nCvT  is used from the kinetic energy of an ideal gas.

Where,

U = The amount of internal energy of a gas

Cv = At constant volume the amount of heat capacity of a gaseous substance

n = The total number of moles of a gaseous substance

T = Temperature of the system

Internal energy of an ideal gas formula:

In the thermodynamics the change of total amount of internal energy which is expressed as ΔU can determine but for an ideal gas the amount of absolute internal energy can estimate.

Internal energy of an ideal gas formula is,

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Where,

U = Internal energy of an ideal gas

cv = Heat capacity of the specific isochoric

m = Mass of an ideal gas

T = Temperature

To calculate the amount Internal energy of an ideal gas at first we need imagine a gas substance is blockaded to a cylinder that time the volume of the ideal gas should be in constant state and the ideal gas should to cool down and reaches at absolute zero temperature.

In this particular state all particles of the ideal gas at rest position and there is no internal energy is present. The total amount of heat is expressed as Q is transferred at the constant state of volume until the ideal gas temperature is reaches to T. Now in this state the total amount of heat which is necessary for the internal energy is reaches at U.

Internal energy of an ideal gas derivation:

In a system of thermodynamic the amount of internal energy can be converted into potential energy or kinetic energy. For the system of the thermodynamics three types of energy such as internal energy, potential energy and kinetic energy can contained.

Derivation internal energy for an ideal gas:-

For an ideal gas substance the internal energy depend upon the kinetic energy and potential energy.

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We know that,

M/m = Na

Kavg = 1/2 3RT/Na

Kavg = 3/2 kT because  k = R/Na

How does the internal energy of an ideal gas differ from that of real gas?

The ideal gas explain as, the gaseous substance which are obeys the law of gases at any condition of temperature and pressure. The real gas explain as, the gaseous substance which are not obeys the law of gases.

The difference between the internal energy of an ideal gas and real gas is discuss below,

Parameters Ideal gas Real gas
Pressure High Low
Intermolecular attraction force Not present Present
Volume No definite volume Definite volume
Existence in environment Not present and the ideal gas is hypothetical gas Present
Elastic collision of molecules Yes No
Interaction with others gas No Yes
Law of gases Obey Does not obey
Velocity   Not present   Present  
Mass Not present   Present  
Volume Not present   Present  

Specific internal energy of an ideal gas:

The specific internal energy of an ideal gas which is expressed as u explain as, the amount of internal energy of an ideal gas matter in per unit mass of the particular ideal gas matter.

Read more about Specific Enthalpy : Its important properties & amp; 8 FAQ’s

The formula of the specific internal energy of an ideal gas is,

u = U/m

Where,

u = Specific internal energy of an ideal gas in joule per kilogram

U = Internal energy of an ideal gas in joule

m = Mass of an ideal gas in kilogram

The S.I. unit of the specific internal energy of an ideal gas is joule per kilogram. The dimension of specific internal energy of an ideal gas is L2T-2.

Change in internal energy of an ideal gas:

From the laws of kinetic energy it’s clearly shown that kinetic energy of a particle has a directly relation with temperature from that change in internal energy of an ideal gas directly connected.

Change in internal energy of an ideal gas only depends on the temperature it is not depend on the other physical parameters like volume, pressure. If initial temperature, final temperature is known for the system then change in internal energy of an ideal gas easy to determined.

Whether the system can follow any process like isentropic, isobaric or isochoric or any other method the change in internal energy of an ideal gas is irrelevant. In one word we can say change in internal energy of an ideal gas only ruled by the state of the gaseous matter not ruled by the process of the gaseous matter. If the temperature is differ in the system only for that case internal energy can be differ for an ideal gaseous substance. The change in internal energy of an ideal gas can be zero in the process of isothermal.

Isothermal expansion of an ideal gas
Image – Isothermal Process;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Read more about Isothermal process : It’s all important facts with 13 FAQs

By the process of the thermodynamic the clear relation between change in internal energy of an ideal gas and temperature easily can investigate of gaseous matter.  In the process of isochoric on the gas no workdone is happened. In the process of isochoric on the gas heat is input for this reason change in internal energy of an ideal gas is increases.

What is the change of internal energy?

In a system of thermodynamic the change in internal energy is derive in this way the sum of the internal energy changes for the gaseous matter is equal to  the net workdone of a thermodynamic system and the total amount of heat is deposal to the system and the surrounding of the system.

800px Temperature and internal energy.svg
Image – Internal energy and Temperature;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

The formula for the change in internal energy of an ideal gas is,

Δ U = Q + W

Where,

ΔU = The total amount of change in internal energy of an ideal gas in a system

 Q = The amount of heat transfer between the system and the system’s surroundings

 W = Work done by a system

In some process there is no change in internal energy. The processes are cyclic process, isothermal and free expansion. In these processes the amount of internal energy is same because the temperature of the system remains unchanged.

Before during after sudden expansion
Image – Free expansion in gas;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

How to calculate change in internal energy of an ideal gas?

From the 1st law of the thermodynamic we can a concept about change in internal energy of an ideal gas.The amount of internal energy of an ideal gas is equal to the heat flow and PV workdone by the system.

The quantity of the internal energy that could be change for a gaseous matter that always should be equal to the workdone of the system and the amount of input heat and amount of output heat.

Formula for calculate change in internal energy of an ideal gas:-

Q =ΔU = W…….eqn (1)

Q = ΔU + PV

Because we know that, the amount of heat is added or removed is always equal to the total sum of the internal energy which is changed and the workdone of PV.

From the eqn (1) after arranging we get,

ΔU = Q – PV……. eqn (2)

Frequent Asked Questions:-

Question: – Is all-time the values of the internal energy of a substance remain positive or it can be negative?

Solution: – No, all-time the values of the internal energy of a substance cannot remain positive.

Some time the value of the internal energy can be negative. We can calculate the value of internal energy from the sum of workdone and heat. Negative value of internal energy of an ideal gas means the value of final energy is low than the value of initial energy.

Question: – Give some examples of internal energy.

Solution: – Some examples of internal energy listed below,

  1. Vapor of a liquid substance
  2. Shaking of a liquid substance
  3. Batteries
  4. Compressed gasses
  5. Increasing the temperature of a substance

13 Examples Of Heat Transfer: Detailed Explanations

skin warming up after exposure to sunlight

This article discusses about examples of heat transfer. Heat transfer is a branch of thermal engineering that concerns with generation, use and exchange of heat energy from one system to another.

Heat can be transferred by many ways. Most commonly known methods are conduction, convection and radiation. This article discusses about different modes of heat transfer and then we will discuss about examples of heat transfer that we see in our daily lives.

What is heat transfer?

As discussed above, heat transfer is the branch of thermal engineering which deals with generation of heat, use of heat and transfer of heat through various physical systems.

Heat does not necessarily need a medium to get transferred from one system to another. These systems are at different temperatures. The heat will flow from a system with high temperature to a system that is at lower temperature. We shall study about its types in the later sections of this article.

examples of heat transfer
Image: Different modes heat transfer

Image credits: Kmecfiunit, cmglee, Heat-transmittance-means2CC BY-SA 4.0

Modes of heat transfer

The heat can be transferred from one system to another by many ways. Some methods need a medium whereas some methods like radiation don’t need any medium for heat transfer to take place.

The different methods of heat transfer are given below as follows-

  • Conduction – Conduction is a mode of heat transfer where the heat s transferred through systems when they are in contact with each other. The molecules of these systems vibrate and transfer energy through these vibrations. The vibrations although fade away as the distance becomes larger proving that conduction is inversely proportional to the length of the systems.
  • Convection – Convection is the process of heat transfer with the help of moving fluids. When we pour warm water on our body and our muscles get relaxed, this is due to convection of heat from water to our skin.
  • Radiation – Radiation is a process of heat transfer in which the heat is transferred without the help of any medium or physical contact between the systems.

Examples of heat transfer

Heat transfer takes place almost everywhere around us in daily lives. The most commonly seen examples of heat transfer are given below-

Our skin gets warm after going out in sunlight

The heat emitted by the Sun gets radiated towards Earth. This radiated heat is absorbed by our skin and hence we feel warm when we go outside in sunlight. Long exposures may even burn the skin (tanning is an example).

Our skin gets warm after going out in sunlight

The steel spoon gets warm after coming in contact with hot container

When the steel spoon is kept in touch with a hot container, the steel spoon gets warm due to heat transfer by conduction. As the steel spoon is a good conductor of heat, the heat gets easily transferred to steel making the steel spoon’s temperature higher.

The steel spoon gets warm after coming in contact with hot container

Boiling water

The water is boiled due to convection and conduction both. The vessel inside which the water is kept becomes hot first. This is due to conduction heat transfer. Then the water gets heated as a result of heat transfer between the water surface and the hot vessel. The remaining water gets hot by the process of convection.

Boiling Water

Thermometer

In thermometer, the level of Mercury rises when the heat from body is transferred to it. The rise in Mercury is used to determine the temperature of our body.

thermometer 869392 640
Image Credit: Pixabay

We get burned after touching hot pan

When the pan is hot and we touch it, we feel hot or burn our hands sometimes. This is due to heat transfer taking place due to conduction. The heat from hot pan is transferred to our skin as we make contact to the pan.

feeling hot after touching a hot object

Water gets warm after leaving under hot sun

When we leave water under hot sun, the heat radiated by the Sun makes the water warm. This happens so because the water absorbs the radiated heat which in turn makes it warm. This is the same reason why we feel hot after stepping outside the house under scorching heat.

Food gets warm after heating it in microwave

Microwave is used for warming the food. The microwave sends out waves which makes the food warm. This entire heat transfer process takes place in the form of radiation.

Food gets cold when left in room

When we leave the food untouched in our room, then the food tries to make thermal equilibrium with the surroundings which happens by lowering the temperature of food. As the food gets colder, thermal equilibrium is established. This is also an example of heat transfer as heat is transferred from the food to surroundings.

Tea cup gets hot after tea is poured in the cup

After tea is poured in the cup, conduction takes place between the outermost layer of tea and the surface of the cup. This way the heat is transferred from tea to the cup as a result of which the cup becomes hot.

heat transfer from a hot liquid to a cup

Phone gets hot when its battery gets hot

When the battery gets hot due to longer operation of phone, the phone also gets hot. This is because the battery is in contact with the mobile phone. The heat is transferred from battery to the phone with the help of conduction.

Phone charger gets hot when the wires inside get hot

The wires inside a charger adaptor get hot due to excessive charging. These wires are in contact with the adaptor from inside, this way heat transfer due to conduction takes place and adaptor in turn also becomes hot.

TV gets hot after its coil gets hot after excessive usage

After excessive usage, the coils inside TV get hot. The coil being in contact with the inside of TV, makes the tv also hot. This is why it is recommended to watch television under control.

Forest fire

When the heat from sun is very strong, the dry leaves may catch fire due to excessive heat. This is an example of radiation heat transfer. It is important to note that radiation can cause fire too!

Ice melts after being dipped in a warm drink

After dipping the ice in a warm drink, convection takes place between ice and the drink which makes the temperature of ice higher. This result in melting of ice.

Steamer

Steamer is a device that emits out steam. This steam is used for getting rid of cold or skin treatment etc. The heat from the steam is transferred to our skin with the help of convection. The steam carries the heat with it and transfers it to the skin when in contact with it.

Examples of heat transfer by radiation

Radiation heat transfer does not physical contact of both the systems nor it needs a medium to get the heat transferred from one system to another. Let us see some of the examples of radiation heat transfer given below-

  • Hot metal rod transferring heat to surroundings – When a metal rod is heated, it emits out heat to its surroundings, this heat transfer takes place with the help of radiation. If we put our hand near the metal rod, we will feel hot even without touching it.
  • Microwave – Food is warmed inside a microwave by the action of heat transfer by radiation. The microwaves inside the microwave make the food warm with the help of radiation.
  • Solar UV radiation – Solar UV radiation is the radiation emitted by the sun. This radiation can be used for generating electricity using solar panels. Even our skin gets warm due to the action of UV radiation. This is solely due to heat transfer by radiation.
  • Emission of Gamma rays – Gamma rays are a type of em wave. These waves move by the principle of radiation after being emitted.
  • Light being emitted by incandescent lamp -Light from incandescent lamp is an example of radiation as we feel warm while standing beside the lamp even without touching it.
  • Heat coming out from bonfire – Bonfire is a small controlled fire used to make ourselves feel warm during cold weather. The heat transfer takes place with the help of radiation. We do not touch the fire of bonfire but still feel the heat being emitted by it.
  • Heat emitted by a radiator – A radiator in vehicle becomes hot when the vehicle has travelled too much. The heat emitted from the radiator can be felt by us. This is due to radiation heat transfer. We do not physically touch the radiator but still feel the heat.

Read more about Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient.

15 Radioactive Decay Examples: Detailed Explanations

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In this article Radioactive decay examples are derived. Radioactive process is actually a continuous breakdown process of a matter’s atomic nucleus. In this process energy is emitted from any matter’s nucleus.

16+ radioactive decay examples are given in section of below,

  • Medical equipment
  • Glass
  • Ceramics
  • Clocks and watches
  • Smoke detector
  • Fertilizers
  • Gas Lantern Mantles
  • Food
  • Glowing items
  • Recycled metal
  • Irradiated Gemstones
  • X ray imaging
  • Security
  • Measurement
  • Space exploration
  • Human body

Medical equipment:

In various machines in the medical field radioactive element is widely used. From where radioactive decay is emitted these types of material are used in the medical field for treating health of a patient. Nuclear Regulatory Commission department regulate the use of radioactive decay in medical field.

Near about one third patients are admitted for acted a rare and fatal liver disease using radioactive or radiation materials.  The radioactive or radiation materials are called radio pharmaceuticals. To reduce the tissue of the cancerous, reduce and shrink a tumor this radioactive object is used.

800px MRI Philips
Image – Medical equipment;
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Glass:

In the industry of glassware the radioactive decay is used. Thorium – 232 and potassium – 40 radioactive type objects is used inside the glassware factory. Some glass made product also contain uranium this type of glass is called Vaseline glass.

Glass is transparent amorphous solid and it is non crystalline. In the glass others chemical are also present like silica.

Radioactive decay examples
Image – Glass;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Ceramics:

Thorium, uranium, potassium radioactive type objects is used inside the ceramics. Ceramics can be divided in two categories as non metallic material and inorganic material. In the field of production engineering the examiner are tried to new type products of ceramics that general people can use in their everyday lifestyle.

In almost everywhere ceramics are present. In bricks, glass, plates even in toilet the ceramic made of products are present.  In automobile, clock and watches, snow skies, airplanes, appliances, space shuttles the ceramics products are available. Even in some superconductors ceramics presence can be observe.

In the ceramics the objects which are present they are powders, water, earthen elements, mixture of clay and mixing all together the desired object is made.

800px Boeotian Geometric pottery AM of Thebes 201170
Image – Ceramics;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Clocks and watches:

In our daily the most common and useful radioactive example is clocks and watches. Promethium – 147 radioactive type objects is used inside the clocks and watches. Another type radioactive type objects is used inside the clocks and watches is Hydrogen – 3.

For this reason luminous type dials actually a compromising. For this reason in dark area we easily can see the time without any hassle. Now a day where this modern type watches is used. In older watches and clocks Radium – 226 is used.

Radium Dial
Image – Clock and watches;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Smoke detector:

The term for the smoke detector is smoke alarm. The radioactive example which is use in our regular life this is the smoke detector. Mainly alpha decay is used in the smoke alarm. Americium – 241 this radioactive object is used inside the smoke detector.

The Americium – 241 radioactive elements is actually particularly placed in the middle portion of the charged plates. From Americium – 241 element release alpha decay to the environments.

Two plates which are charged are used to construct the design of smoke detector. Others things which are used in the design of the smoke detector they are, a battery, a mechanism of alarming, a detector battery. The terminals are attached to the equipment of the smoke detector in a very interesting way. One terminal of the smoke detector is attached with the detector of current and another one terminal is attached with the positive side plate of the smoke detector.

Ceiling smoke alarm
Image – Smoke detector;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Others some facts which are we to concern about is listed below,

  • At least in every 9 – 10 years the smoke detector should be definitely replaced.
  • The connection of the smoke detector always interconnected.
  • Large buildings should contain more smoke detector.
  • Monthly checking and maintenance is needed.

Fertilizers:

Fertilizer is an element which is mainly used in agriculture field for improve the productivity and growth of the plants. Fertilizer actually a element which is enhance the fertility naturally of the soil or elements which carry the chemicals alternatively use as soil by prior crops.

In the fertilizer the radioactive elements are used they are uranium and thorium. The other chemical element which are contain by the fertilizer is hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, phosphorus, calcium, sulfur, sodium, silicon, aluminium and many more.

Oxyfertil fertilizer
Image – Fertilizer;
Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons

Gas Lantern Mantles:

Thorium – 232 radioactive elements is used in the gas lantern mantles. This gas lantern mantles actually incandescent lights. When fuel is burn like kerosene, propane and white gas heat is produce and as a result mantles is made from which light is comes.

The gas lantern mantles components made of ceramics other elements present in this is cerium oxide, thorium oxide and magnesium oxide. The construction of the gas lantern mantles is very simple.

800px Glowing gas mantle
Image – Gas lantern mantles;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Food:

There is lots of food is present in nature from their radioactive decay is always emitted.  The food items are,

Brazil nut – From the Brazil nut near about 12000 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Butter beans – From the butter beans near about 4600 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Bananas – From the bananas near about 3500 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Avocados – From the Avocado near about 2500 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Water – From the water near about 100 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Red meat – From the red meat near about 3000 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Peanut butter – From the peanut butter near about 120 picocurie per kilogram radiation decay is emitted.

Glowing items:

In lots of glowing item which we are used in our daily life radioactive element is present. Mainly in the glowing item thorium and uranium are used. These items can glow in dark places without battery or electricity.

In the glowing items mainly very low level radiation of beta is emitted. The emission of the beta radiation easily can be stopped with help of cloth or sheet of paper.

Recycled metal:

We are known the process of the recycle is very convenient for us and also for our surrounding. But some time the process of recycle can causes some unwanted bad situation. The metals which are used again and again for recycling causes emitting of radiation decay. We always should some take some care of it,

  1. Taking a distance
  2. Time limitation
  3. Checking shielding

Irradiated Gemstones:

In lots of gemstones which we are used in our daily life radioactive element is present. Mainly in the irradiated gemstone item gamma radiation is continuously emitted. The irradiation is a term which meaning is very board. In irradiated gemstones full range of radiation of electromagnetic present and also visible light, X rays, ultraviolet rays, infrared radiation is present.

X ray imaging:

X ray imaging is a very process which is done without any pain and it is very speedy process. From this x ray imaging the radiation is emitted. Mainly by the help of x ray a picture is taken for any particular place of our body.

800px Medical X Ray imaging QGT06 nevit
Image – X ray image;
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Beam of the ray is going through of our body and after that absorbed different amount of radiation which is depend upon the material density.

But excess amount of doing x ray imaging is not good for our body.

Mainly the images are taking by the help of x ray process is,

  • Arthritis
  • Bone cancer
  • Osteoporosis
  • Dental decay
  • Fracture
  • Blocked blood vessels
  • Breast cancer
  • Swallowed items

Security:

In our modern society the most and effective security process is done for security is radiation decay. When a man is pass through the radiation decay test an image is clearly comes to the examiner that what object he is carrying. Mainly this process x ray is done. Alpha radiation is emitted in this process.

Measurement:

In the special measuring instruments like gauges and devices the radiation of radioactive elements are used thus we can get appropriate measurement and accuracy. Not only in measuring devices is the radiation radioactive also used in checking instrument. For checking the fluid levels, defects present in the welds, very small measure in physical this process is followed.

Read more about Gauge pressure : It’s Important Properties with 30 FAQs

Space exploration:

In space exploration the radiation of radioactive is uses. Actually interstellar space is very dark for this reason the surrounding temperature became very low. The temperature reaches about zero degrees centigrade. For overcome this problem radioactive element are use so that the equipment of the aircraft can move and don’t freeze neither the equipment could not open up.

The radiation of the radioactive elements gives heat to the equipment of the aircraft.

Piers Sellers spacewalk
Image – Space Exploration;
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Human body:

From our body very little amount of radiation of radioactive is emitted. From our body mainly carbon – 14 radioactive element is present. For this reason the archaeologists easily can determine the range of age for skeleton. The main source of the radioactive in our body is when we took breathe from environment little amount is absorbed.

Frequent Asked Question:-

Question: Write disadvantages of radioactive decay examples.

Solution: Some disadvantages of radioactive decay examples is given below,

  • Irritation in skin
  • Hair loss
  • Difficulty in swallowing
  • Bladder infection
  • Sore throat
  • Dry mouth

5 Radioactive Decay Types: Uses, Properties And Examples

Alpha

This article discusses about radioactive decay types. We know that atoms are held together by a force called interatomic force or nuclear force.

When an unstable atom wants to attain a stable state, it does so by emitting a large amount of energy through radiation. This extra energy being the reason behind instability of that atom is shredded by the atom itself. This phenomenon is called as radioactivity. We shall read more about radioactivity in this article.

What is radioactivity?

As discussed in above section, it is the phenomenon in which the unstable atom loses its energy to attain stability.

The energy released is termed as nuclear or atomic energy as it is derived from the nucleus of the atom. We shall study more about radioactivity and its types in further sections of this article.

Radioactive decay types

There are many ways in which the nuclear energy can be emitted. The different types of radioactive decay are listed below-

Alpha decay

Alpha particles are those particles which consists of two protons and two neutrons (Like He atom). When the nucleus emits alpha particles in a reaction then it is called as alpha decay.

radioactive decay types
Image: Alpha Decay

Image Credits: Wikipedia

Beta decay

Just like Alpha decay, in Beta decay, the Beta particles are emitted. Beta particles are those particles which have a pair consisting of positron and neutrino or electron and anti neutrino. When positron and neutrino are emitted, it is termed as beta plus decay and similarly when electron and anti neutrino are emitted it is termed as beta minus decay.

Gamma decay

Gamma decay takes place in two steps. First nucleus emits Alpha or Beta particles and leaves the nucleus in an excited state. To achieve a stable state, nucleus emits gamma ray photons. This is called as gamma decay.

Neutron emission

In some cases, due to excessive Alpha Decay or Beta Decay, the remaining nuclei become neutron rich. These neutrons are shedded away by the process of neutron emission. This results in formation of Isotopes of different particles.

Electron capture

Sometimes, Nucleus may capture an orbiting electron. This leaves the proton alone due to which it gets converted to neutron. During this process, Neutrino and gamma rays are emitted.

Cluster Decay

In Cluster decay a nucleus heavier than Alpha particle is emitted.

Radioactive decay series example

An unstable atom undergoes a series of radioactive decays or transformations to attain a stable state. This series of transformations is termed as radioactive decay series.

A radioactive decay series is also called as radioactive cascade, the atom does not get directly converted to a stable state. Rather it undergoes many transformations to reach a stable state. Examples of radioactive decay series is given below-

  • Thorium series– In Thorium series, following elements are present- Actnium, Bismuth Lead, Polonium, Radon, Radium and Thallium. The total energy release from Thorium-232 to Lead-208 is 42.6 MeV.
  • Neptunium Series– In Neptunium series, only two isotopes are involved namely Bismuth-209 and Thallium-205. The total energy release from Californium-249 to Thallium-205 is 66.8 MeV.
  • Uranium Series– Uranium series contains the following elements- Astatine, Bismuth, Lead, Polonium, Protactinium, Radium and Radon, Thallium and Thorium. The total energy release from Uranium-238 to Lead-206 is 51.7 MeV.
  • Actinium series– The Actinium series consists of- Actinium, Astatine, Bismuth, Francium, Lead, Polonium, Protactinium, Radium, Thallium, Thorium and Radon. The total energy released from Uranium-235 and Lead-207 is 46.4 MeV.

Radioactive decay properties

We have discussed in above sections that radioactivity is the phenomenon in which an atom reduces its energy to attain a stable state. The energy released through these atoms is high enough to make an Atom bomb.

The process of radioactive decay is very random, one cannot simply tell which atom is going to disintegrate into which atom. The entire energy release process is spontaneous. The transformation theory does not tell about the particular cause inside the atom which is responsible for the emission of this extra energy.

Radioactive decay uses

Although, humans have a dangerous threat of nuclear radiation. A slight amount of exposure to radiation can cause illness, burns and severe diseases which can lead to death. Excessive amount can cause instant death.

But it can be used in a better way if the energy is harnessed in a proper manner. Let us see some uses of radioactivity-

  • Medicine– Cobalt-60 is used extensively to trap cancer cells. This is a major breakthrough in fighting cancer.
  • Electricity generation– Uranium-235 is a commonly used fuel in nuclear power plants. Even a small amount of Uranium-235 can be used to generates megawatts of electricity.
  • Treatment– Iodine-131 is used in treating hyperthyroidism. Some radioactive isotopes are used in diagnostic purposes as well as for research.
  • Measurement of thickness-The strength of penetrations if these radioactive elements can be used precise measurement of thicknesses of plastics and metals in industries.
  • X rays-X rays and CT scans employ radioactive elements which penetrate through the human skin and give a luminiscent view of human body from inside.

Radioactive hazards

If not used in a proper manner, exposure to radiation can cause irrepairable damages to human body as well as other life on Earth.

Below is a list of few of the hazards that are caused by exposure to radioactivity-

  • Skin burn– Long exposure to sun can cause burns on skin. This can be observed by tanning that is darkening of the skin. If the skin is exposed to sunlight for a very long time, then it can have permanent damage and sometimes cause skin cancer.
  • Radiation burns- When a person comes in direct contact with radioactive material, depending on the amount of exposure to this radiation, he/she can get radiation burns. The skin gets burnt due to the high penetration power of radioactive elements.
  • Acute radiation syndrome- This is an illness caused by intake of high amount of radiation in a very short amount of time.
  • Cancer– Radiation can cause cancer in our bodies.
  • Cardio Vascular diseases– Excessive radiation causes cardio vascular diseases which can be there for entire lifetime and can be passed on genetically.
  • Radiation cloud– Atomic blasts leave a huge radiation cloud in the atmosphere thus polluting the atmosphere with radioactive elements. These radioactive clouds then come down in the form of rain.
  • Loss of life on Earth– Due to radiation, the innocent plants and animals die because they are unaware of the threats caused by radiation in their bodies.
  • Lengthy half life of radioactive materials– Once there is a radioactive leak in an area, it has to be completely sealed for thousands of years as the half life of radioactive elements is far more than human lives. Thus to curb the effect of radiation, the entire population has to shifted and the area needs to be sealed.

Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger: What, How, Types, Working, Sizing, Cleaning, Applications

Plate heat exchanger dismantled pic02 216x300 1

In industrial field in various purposes “Plate and frame heat exchanger” is used. Inside the plate and frame heat exchanger the temperature and transferring of heat is always transfer from higher to lower.

In the industrial area the heat exchangers are used in a large quantity among them the Plate and frame heat exchanger is one of these.Plate and frame heat exchanger uses as a metal plate through which heat can be transfer between present of two fluids. It is carry a frame and clamped between a follower and head.

What is plate and frame heat exchanger?

Plate and Frame Heat Exchanger is a device which is most suitable heat exchanger for exchanging the pressure from low pressure to medium pressure by the medium of fluids of pressure. It is used in free cooling, boilers.

The plate and frame heat exchanger is a device which is uses in a sequence of metal plates where the heat is freely move one fluid to another fluid.  The plates of the plate and frame heat exchanger placed over each other thus it could create a sequence channel so the pressure fluid can move inside of it.

Plate and frame heat exchanger
Plate and frame heat exchanger Image Credit – Wikimedia Commons
Individual plate of plate and frame heat exchanger
Individual plate of plate and frame heat exchanger
Image Credit – Wikipedia

How does plate and frame heat exchanger work?

The plate and frame heat exchanger is a device which is widely uses in small welded designs. The main convenience of the plate and frame heat exchanger is pressure fluid easily can distribute over metal plates.

The gaskets plates of the plate and frame heat exchanger cut down the heat through the surface of the exchanger and help in separate the medium of the hot to medium of the cold. For this reason lower temperature fluid, gas and higher temperature fluid, gas use minimal level of energy.

The working principle of the plate and frame heat exchanger is deeply derive in section of below,

At the start of the process multiple plates are stack together.

Gaskets are used inside the plate and frame heat exchanger thus it could allow preventing fluids which are entering from the alternating plates. The gaskets can easily move left or right side for creating block. In every channel of the plates two fluids will definitely flow. The holes of the gaskets plates in the plate and frame heat exchanger align in this way from a pipe just like a channel from where fluid can flow.

If we go through the plate and frame heat exchanger’s gasket plates then we can observe that the alternates’ gasket plate side is block.

If cooler fluid can pass through the plate and frame heat exchanger then the fluid is entering from the left side top inlet.

After entering the cooler fluid it can flow through the plate 2, plate 4 and plate 6. After that the cooler fluid left a high temperature and discharge from the left side bottom outside.

In the next step the high temperature fluid enters through the right side of the lower inlet then it can flow through the plate 1, plate 3 and plate 5. After that the hot fluid discharges from the right side top outlet.

The gasket of the plate and frame heat exchanger is allowed to flow the fluid inside the particular channel.

In this process the plates which contained the channels from where fluids are flows with different temperature and it has always tendency to flow fluid from hot temperature to cold temperature.  

The higher temperature fluid transfers a little amount of thermal energy to the lower temperature fluid. The different type of two fluids never combines to each other and they never meet to each other just because of the separation is done by the wall of the metal plate. For this reason the lower temperature fluid was getting hot and lower temperature fluid getting cold. The amount of exchange the heat in the plate and frame heat exchanger is simple type.

We should always ensure that, the protective sleeves need to attach with the tightening bars over the threads. Insulated should be kept more thermal energy.

The flow of the fluid is counterflow.

The counterflow working principle is most effective only because of log mean difference of temperature. Logarithmic average of the temperature difference (LMTD) is greatest.

Types of plate and frame heat exchanger:

The plate and frame heat exchanger can be classified into four categories. They are,

  1. Brazed plate and frame heat exchanger
  2. Gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger
  3. Welded plate and frame heat exchanger
  4. Semi welded plate and frame heat exchanger

The types of plate and frame heat exchanger classifications description is given below,

Brazed plate and frame heat exchanger:

The structure of the brazed plate and frame heat exchanger is carry both equipment name gasket and frame. Brazed plate and frame heat exchanger mainly use for small applications but now a day’s brazed plate and frame heat exchanger widely for the large applications. In refrigeration and automotive sector it is use mainly.

In the brazed plate and frame heat exchanger use stainless steel and copper brazing is used to make its plates for this reason it have high corrosion resistive characteristics. This Brazed plate and frame heat exchangers are very lightweight and efficient for this reason this type of heat exchanger is economical.

Brazed plate and frame heat exchanger contain thin metal plates to isolate the pressure fluid, but the metal blades all together to make a full seal. The seal of this heat exchanger is formed with the help of positioning and brazing of the metal plates by which the fluid will be flow can be determined. It contains both high pressure and higher temperature.

The benefits of using brazed plate and frame heat exchanger is,

  1. Exchangers are used.
  2. Low maintenance cost.
  3. Design of construction is easy.
  4. Heat loss is very minimum.

Gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger:

In gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger multiple thin metal sheets are use to make the structure of channel. The heating or cooling capacity can be increases or decreases by adding or subtracting the internal thin metal sheets. The purpose for repair or washing it can also disassemble. The metals which are use to made the thin plates are stainless steel, platinum, and mild steel. In gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger gaskets are made of rubber.

In process engineering, automotive sector, heavy duty HVAC the gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger widely used.

Read more about SUPERHEAT HVAC : IT’S IMPORTANT CONCEPTS AND 3 FAQS

The benefits of using gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger is,

  1. Low maintenance cost.
  2. Leakage can easily prevent.
  3. Replacement of expansion valve is not difficult.
  4. Cleaning of the thin metal plates is not facing difficulty.

Welded plate and frame heat exchanger:

If we looked upon the structure of Welded plate and frame heat exchanger then we can observe the inside structure is so similar with gasketed plate and frame heat exchanger.

The benefits of using welded plate and frame heat exchanger is,

  1. Loss of fluid is very less.
  2. It is highly robust type.
  3. Corrosive or hot fluid can easily move in it.

Semi welded plate and frame heat exchanger:

With the help of two plate’s pair the internal metal plates are made of and they are welded. Another pairs of the gasketeds one pair is welded for making fluid path and another pair is gasketed for making fluid path.

The benefits of using semi welded plate and frame heat exchanger is,

  1. Loss of fluid is very less.
  2. Moving of heavy materials is not facing difficulty.

Plate and frame heat exchanger diagram:

The diagram of the Plate and frame heat exchanger is given below,

Plate and frame heat exchanger
Plate and frame heat exchanger diagram
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Plate and frame heat exchanger applications:

The application of plate and frame heat exchanger are given below,

  1. Heat pump isolation
  2. Water heaters
  3. Waste heat recovery
  4. Free cooling
  5. Cooling tower isolation

Heat pump isolation:

For protecting the heat pump from the contaminants in the supply of water graham plate series exchanger are used. High degree of turbulence cab be easily maintain by graham plate series exchanger, which reducing fouling and appropriate for flowing the higher temperature fluid.

Water heaters:

Stainless steel is used to make water heater. It has high rate of heat transfer and resistivity in corrosion.  In water heater mainly graham plate exchanger are used which is appropriate for flowing the higher temperature fluid.

Water heater
Water heater
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Waste heat recovery:

Waste heat can be generated help of chillers, steam condenser, and many others process is used to making heat of air or water. High efficiency and lower temperature it helps to reduce energy cost.

Free cooling:

For the operation of free cooling chillers of the refrigeration system is shut down and helps to reducing the cost of plant utility. In the free cooling graham plate exchanger are used. During the free cooling process the air is pre cool by the help of cooling tower water.

Cooling tower isolation:

By the help of cooling tower isolation the cooling water is circulated in the buildings. . In the cooling tower isolation graham plate exchanger are used to minimize the turbulence of the water.

Cooling tower
Cooling tower
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

Plate and frame heat exchanger sizing:

For the measuring process of Plate and frame heat exchanger sizing is followed some steps. They are,

  1. Get the data of design
  2. Calculating the flux of the heat
  3. Calculating the needed number of thin plates
  4. Confirmation the size of the heat exchanger

Get the data of design:

At the beginning for calculating the size of the plate and frame heat exchanger the first step need to follow is get the data of design. The data which are should to follow to run this process is listed below,

  • Properties present in the fluids.
  • Temperature for each and every fluid in the outlet and inlet.
  • Pressure for the fluid in the inlet.
  • Allowable pressure drop.

Calculating the flux of the heat:

If flowrate of the flowing fluid, specific heat, inlet temperature, outlet temperature or either know the cold side or hot side then heat flux can be easily calculated.

With the help of the formula from which heat flux can be calculated is given below,

gif

Where,

mc = Mass flow rate on the lower temperature side in kg per second

Cpc= Specific heat on the lower temperature side

T2= Outlet temperature on the lower temperature side in Kelvin

T1= Inlet temperature on the lower temperature side in Kelvin

h = Mass flow rate on the higher temperature side in kg per second

Cph= Specific heat on the higher temperature side

T4 = Outlet temperature on the higher temperature side in Kelvin

T3 = Inlet temperature on the higher temperature side in Kelvin

By the help of Heat transfer coefficient heat flux can be determined.

gif

Where,

H = Overall heat exchange coefficient in kw.m2.K-1

S = Area of the heat exchanger in square meter

Calculating the needed number of thin plates:

The needed number of thin plates can determined using this formula,

N = S/s

Where,

N = Needed number of thin plates

S = Total area of the heat exchanger area in square meter

s = Size of a particular single plate in square meter

Confirmation the size of the heat exchanger:

Usingthe Nusselt number the size of the heat exchanger can be determined.

Where,

Nu = Nusselt number

a = Coefficient depending upon the corrugation of plate

Re = Reynolds number

b = Coefficient depending upon the corrugation of plate

Pr= Prandtl number

Prw = Prandtl number at the wall of the plate

Read more about Reynolds number : It’s 10+ Important facts

Plate and frame heat exchanger cleaning and maintenance:

Plate and frame heat exchanger cleaning and maintenance done in three steps. They are listed below,

  1. Scheduled maintenance
  2. Clean in place
  3. Manual maintenance

Scheduled maintenance:

The common process of maintaining Plate and frame heat exchanger cleaning and maintenance is scheduled maintenance. In this process scheduled and regularly maintain and cleaning the apparatus of the heat exchanger. These kinds of cleaning and maintenance process at least stay for six months.

Clean in place:

In this process periodically maintain and cleaning the apparatus of the heat exchanger. This kind of cleaning and maintenance process the plate not need to open it helps to drop excessive pressure inside the heat exchanger.

Manual maintenance:

In this process annually maintain and cleaning the apparatus of the heat exchanger. This kind of cleaning and maintenance process at least stays for more than one year.

Boiling Point And Atmospheric Pressure: What, How, Relation And Facts

This article discusses about the relation between boiling point and atmospheric pressure. We all have this misconception that the boiling point of a liquid depends on the temperature. This is not true.

Temperature plays an important role in boiling but there is another factor which is responsible for boiling to take place. That is vapour pressure. This vapour pressure when reaches the value of atmospheric pressure outside the system, the liquid starts boiling.

What is vapour pressure?

Vapour pressure is the value of pressure exerted by the surface of the liquid when it is about to change its state to gaseous.

The temperature is increased to make the vapour pressure value reach the value of pressure of ambient. As temperature increases the pressure of the liquid also increases. This law is called as Gay-Lusaac’s law in thermodynamics.

Image credits: user:Markus SchweissKochendes wasser02CC BY-SA 3.0

Define boiling point using atmospheric pressure and vapour pressure

We all have seen boiling water atleast once in our life time. It is the point at which the liquid phase of a substance changes into gaseous phase.

Whenever this happens the ambient pressure and vapour pressure of the liquid will have same values. To achieve this equality, temperature of the liquid is increased continuously. As the temperature increases, pressure also increases. Boiling is observed by droplets of liquid rising up.

Does boiling point depend on atmospheric pressure?

Definitely yes. As we have discussed that vapour pressure when reaches the value of atmospheric pressure, boiling takes place.

If the value of atmospheric pressure is itself less, then it will take lesser amount of time for vapour pressure to touch the value of atmospheric pressure. This way the boiling point will be lower as compared to places where ambient pressure is more.

Effect of atmospheric pressure on boiling point

We have clearly discussed in above section regarding the effects of atmospheric pressure on the boiling point of a substance.

In a nutshell, we can say that atmospheric pressure and boiling both are directly dependent on each other, if one changes then other one also changes. They both are directly proportional to each other that is if one quantity increases other one will also increase. If the liquid starts boiling faster than surely the atmospheric pressure outside would also be low.

How to increase atmospheric pressure?

Atmospheric pressure mainly depends on the gravity. Due to gravity, the molecules are attracted to the surface.

So the atmospheric pressure will be more where the effect of gravity is more. In simple words, the places which are closer to the Earth’s surface (sea level), those places will have more atmospheric pressure than the places having more altitude.

Why does boiling point vary with atmospheric pressure?

Until now we have discussed a lot about effect of atmospheric pressure on boiling point in early sections of this article. They both are directly related to each other and boiling point is dependent on the value of atmospheric pressure outside the system.

This is because when the vapour pressure at the surface of the liquid starts getting higher and getting closer to the value of atmospheric pressure, then the boiling starts taking place. If the value of atmospheric pressure is low then the liquid will start boiling very easily ad faster.

How do atmospheric pressure and elevation affect boiling point?

Gravity. Gravity is the main reason behind the entire episode of boiling point’s dependency on elevation and atmospheric pressure.

Gravity is more at Earth’s surface and gets slightly lower as we go higher. Due to gravity, the molecules in the atmopshere get closely packed near the surface and are slightly scattered at higher elevations. We know the direct affect of atmospheric pressure and higher altitudes on boiling point of a substance.

Boiling point and atmospheric pressure equation

Clausius Clapeyron Equation gives us a direct mathematical relationship between atmospheric pressure and the boiling point.

Using this equation, a person can find the values of boiling point for different vapour pressure if only value of boiling point with its corresponding temperature is given. The equation is given as follows-

Where will the water boil faster, surface or at the hilltop?

After discussing so many points regarding affect of atmospheric pressure and elevation on the boiling point, now we can answer this question easily.

At the surface level, the atmospheric pressure is more and at the hill top the atmospheric pressure is less. So it is safe to say that the water will boil faster at the hill top due to low atmospheric pressure. It will take less time for the vapour pressure of water to reach a value equal to the atmospheric pressure.

What is cavitation?

Cavitation is related to boiling. It takes place inside a liquid when the local vapour pressure becomes lesser than the vapour pressurevery rapidly.

Cavitation is the localised boiling of the liquid particles that can be observed by bubbles and voids forming in the liquid. Cavitation is undesirable because it damages the mechanical components used in the machine.

What is Bernoulli’s equation?

The Bernoulli’s equation is given for incompressible fluids flowing in a streamline flow. This equation tells us that for a fluid moving in a stream line flow, the fluid particles will have constant energy throughout.

In simple words, Bernoulli’s equation tells us that: Static pressure+dynamic presusre= total pressure.

What happens to atmospheric pressure as we move upwards?

As we move upwards, the effect of gravity becomes lesser. Hence, the molecules in the air get scattered and are loosely packed.

Due to this, the atmospheric pressure value decreases. When we say this, the boiling point of a substance is getting directly affected. Due to low atmospheric pressure the boiling point of the substance will also go down.

What is the boiling point of water at standard pressure conditions?

At standard atmospheric conditions, the atmospheric pressure is considered as 1 atm or 1.01 x 10^5 Pa.

At this point, the water will boil at 100 degrees Celsius or 212 degrees Fahrenheit. The conversions of units can be done by using their respective conversion formulae. In Kelvin, the boiling point temperature is 373.15 Kelvin.

Vapor Compression Cycle: What, How, Types, Working, Applications and Various Facts:

Refrigeration 1

In this article ”Vapor compression cycle ” is discuss and vapor compression cycle related facts are also summarize briefly. The vapor compression cycle is commonly used is the system of refrigeration.

In the system of refrigeration which follows the cycle of thermodynamic, is used in a wide range. The energy of heat is transforming from a cold reservoir and after that transfer into a hot reservoir. In a closed cycle fluids is used and go through compression, condensation, and expansion, evaporation process.

What is vapor compression cycle?

The Vapor compression cycle is used in automobile and refrigeration industry. Chilling the storage food items and meat in the warehouses, oil refineries, chemical processing plants many others it is widely used.

The Vapor compression cycle explain as a liquid refrigerant is uses which rotate circularly in the system and works as a medium. The liquid refrigerant absorb the heat from any particular space where cooling is needed and also can remove heat from any particular space where heating is needed for the system.

Vapor compression cycle
Image – Vapor Compression Cycle
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons

The vapor compression cycle is done in a closed cycle. In the system of vapor compression cycle the fluid which is work as a medium is actually a vapor. In a very speedy mode the fluid is evaporate and changes itself alternatively between the liquid phase and vapor or condenses inside of refrigerating plant.

Vapor compression cycle diagram:

The Vapor compression cycle the liquid refrigerant changes its state of phase for two times. In first step liquid refrigerant change itself liquid to vapor and in next step change itself vapor to liquid.

The Vapor compression cycle diagram can be explain as help of two diagrams which is given below,

Pressure – Volume diagram

512px Refrigeration PV diagram.svg
Image – Pressure – Volume diagram; Image Credit – Wikipedia

Temperature –Specific entropy diagram

RefrigerationTS
Image – Temperature –Specific entropy diagram;
Image Credit – Wikipedia

Vapor compression cycle process and working principle:

The Vapor compression cycle is a method which is most commonly used in various fields because its cost of charge is very low and the construction of the vapor compression cycle is quite easy to establish.

The cycle process of vapor compression in refrigeration system is working based on reverse Rankine cycle. The Vapor compression cycle process is proceeding in four steps. They are listed below,

Vapor Compression Cycle
Image – Vapor compression cycle process and working principle
Image Credit – Wikipedia Commons
  1. Compression
  2. Condensation
  3. Throttling
  4. Evaporation

In this below section the four steps are discusses,

Compression (Reversible adiabatic compression):

The refrigerant of vapor compression cycle at low temperature and pressure stretched from evaporator to compressor where the refrigerant is compressed isentropically. The pressure is rises from p1 to p2 and temperature is rises from T1 to T2. The total work done per kg of refrigerant happened during isentropic compression can be express as,

w = h2 – h1

Where,

h1 = Amount of enthalpy of vapor compression cycle in temperature T1, at the step of suction of compressor

h2 = Amount of enthalpy of vapor compression cycle in temperature T2, at the step of discharge of compressor.

Condensation (Constant pressure heat rejection):

The refrigerant of vapor compression cycle is passes through from compressor to condenser at high temperature and pressure. At constant pressure and temperature the refrigerant is completely condensed. The refrigerant changes its state from vapor to liquid.

Throttling (Reversible adiabatic expansion):

At high temperature and high pressure the refrigerant of vapor compression cycle is expanded through the process of throttling. That time the expansion valve is stays in low temperature and pressure. A little amount of liquid refrigerant is evaporating by the help of expansion valve and a huge amount of liquid refrigerant is vaporised by the help of evaporator.

Evaporation (Constant pressure heat addition):

The refrigerant mixture of vapor and liquid is completely evaporated and changed itself into vapor refrigerant. During this evaporation process the refrigerant is absorb latent heat which state is cool. The amount of latent heat absorption by the refrigerant in vapor cycle is known as Refrigerating effect.

Performance of vapour compression cycle in the refrigeration system:

The vapour compression cycle in the refrigeration system is working at evaporator in the law of Steady Flow Energy Equation,

h4 + Qe = h1 + 0

Qe = h1 – h4

The vapour compression cycle in the refrigeration system is working at condenser in the law of Steady Flow Energy Equation,

h2 + Qc = h3 + 0

Qc = h3 – h2

The vapour compression cycle in the refrigeration system is working at expansion valve in the law of Steady Flow Energy Equation,

h3 + Q = h4 + W

We know, value of Q and W is 0

So, we can write,

h3 = h4

Performance of vapour compression cycle in the refrigeration system is,

Output/Input = h1 – h4/h2 – h1

What is simple vapor compression cycle?

The simple vapor compression cycle air is used as a refrigerant and it is evaporate at very low temperature and low pressure. The mechanical energy is required to run the compressor of the system.

The simple vapor compression cycle can be explain as the heat engine which is works in reverse technically that can be known as Reverse Carnot engine. The simple vapor compression cycle transfer heat from lower temperature reservoir to higher temperature reservoir.

What is vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system?

The vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system is one of the most common used and popular refrigeration systems among the all refrigeration system. For both domestic and industrial purpose vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system is used.

The vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system is belong to the refrigeration cycle which is mainly general class type and in this system the refrigerant is undergoes phase chance , minimum during one process. The cycle is working in a closed system and refrigerant is moves in a circular motion.

In vapor compression cycle NH­3, R – 12, R- 11 refrigerant are uses. The vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system consists of refrigerant compressor, liquid compressor, liquid receiver, evaporator and expansion valve which are known as refrigerant control valve.

Vapor absorption refrigeration cycle:

The vapor absorption refrigeration cycle can work easily where high power is not available. The main difference between vapor compression cycle and vapor absorption refrigeration cycle is compressor is replaced.

In the vapor absorption refrigeration cycle lowering the temperature of the system which is done in a closed system, refrigerant work as medium and removing unwanted heat from any particular space of the system and after removing transfer the heat where temperature is lower in the refrigeration system.

Read more about Saturated Suction Temperature : Need to know Critical Facts

In the vapor absorption refrigeration cycle generator, pressure reducing valve, expansion valve, condenser pump and absorber is used.  Ammonia is use in the system as a refrigerant and the mixture of ammonia, lithium bromide, water and water is used as an absorbent.

Ideal vapor compression cycle:

Ideal vapor compression refrigeration cycle system at first refrigerant enter into the compressor as a saturated vapor after that the refrigerant became cool to the liquid state of saturated inside the condenser. When the throttling process is happened in the evaporator vapour and pressure is absorb in the refrigerate space.

Simple vapor compression cycle:

Simple vapor compression cycle refrigeration cycle systems at first refrigerant enter into the compressor as a vapor at lower pressure. After that the refrigerant became superheated at higher pressure inside the condenser. When the throttling process is happened in the heat is release and enters to next process of the cycle.

Read more about Superheat Hvac : IT’S IMPORTANT CONCEPT AND 3 FAQs

Actual vapor compression cycle:

Actual vapor compression cycle refrigeration cycle is not same process as the theoretical vapor cycle of process. In the actual vapor compression cycle loss and unavoidable vapor is present.  The refrigerant leaves the evaporator in the state of superheat.

Read more about Superheat Refrigeration : Its All Important 4 notes

Vapor absorption cycle:

Vapor absorption cycle in the refrigeration system can be describe as refrigerant condensed in the condenser and evaporate at evaporator. In this all refrigeration system process are present such as compression, condensation and expansion evaporation. As a refrigerant lithium bromide, water or ammonia can be used.

Vapor absorption cycle applications:

Application of vapor absorption cycle in refrigeration system is given below,

Domestic refrigeration:

 In dwelling units food is storage in domestic refrigeration.

Cold storage and Food processing:

For processing, preserving and storage food items from its origin of source to the distribution point of the wholesale distributions.

Commercial refrigeration:

Displaying and holding fresh and frozen food items in retain outlet.

Medical refrigeration:

For keeping the medicine in right temperature medical refrigeration is used.

Electronic cooling:

For controlling temperature in large computers, CMOS circuit (Complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor)electronic cooling is used.

Vapor absorption cycle working principle:

The Vapor absorption cycle working principle is summarize in below,

  1. At beginning of the process vapour comes from evaporator and then go to absorber and vapour is absorbed in water.
  2. During the process of absorbing latent heat and heat of mixing is emitted.
  3. Cooling process is done by the absorber to keep the temperature lower in the system.
  4. Absorbing capacity is increases when the absorber is in lower temperature.
  5. Strong aqua mixture of ammonia and water is comes from the absorber and go to the top of the analyzer with the help of pump through aqua heat exchanger.
  6. By the generator the aqua falls mixture is sent to analyzer. In the generator higher temperature is present for this reason low boiling ammonia easily can be separate from the mixture.
  7. The heating process of the generator can be done with the help of solar energy, steam energy or electric energy. In this time ammonia vapour is raises by the analyzer.
  8. During this process wet vapour became dry vapour and sent to the condenser by rectifier.
  9. Water is separated. After separation water is again back to generator this known as Drip. Anhydrous ammonia vapour only goes to the condenser. Liquid ammonia go from condenser to evaporator through the valve of expansion for continue the cycle.
  10. When the aqua mixture is hot it became weaker and comes to evaporator of the system through the heat exchanger. The weak hot aqua again absorbs the vapour of ammonia and cycle stays in continue.
  11. Heat exchanger of the aqua heat the strong aqua mixture and pass to the generator in this process heat is reduced in the heating materials in the generator.

Vapor absorption cycle processes:

Vapor absorption cycle process is done by four steps.

Compression process:

In first of the vapor absorption cycle process compression process is done. In this process vapour stays at very low pressure and temperature.  The vapour is enters to the compressor when it is compressed subsequently and isentropically. After this both temperature and pressure are increases.

Condensation process:

After completing the process in compressor vapour enter to condenser. The vapour is condensed in the high pressure and goes to the receiver tank.

Expansion process:

After completing the process in condenser vapour enter to expansion valve from receiver tank. The throttling process is done in the low pressure and low temperature.

Vaporization process:

After completing the process in expansion valve vapour enter to evaporator. In the evaporator the vapour is extracts heat and circulating fluid in the surrounding environment and in lower pressure vapour is vaporized.

If without throttling expansion is takes place then the level of temperature will be drop in very low temperature and undergoes sensible heat, latent heat to particularly reach to stage of evaporation.

Difference between vapor compression and absorption cycle:

The vital difference between vapor compression and absorption cycle is Coefficient of performance vapor compression is high and for vapor absorption refrigeration cycle Coefficient of performance is low.

In below briefly the Difference between vapor compression and absorption cycle is given,

Particular Vapor compression cycle of a refrigeration system Vapour absorption refrigeration cycle of a refrigeration system
Coefficient of performance(COP) High, range is about 0.3 Low, range is about 0.6
Noise Very high operation Quiet operation
Wear and Tear High, because moving parts are more present in the system of the compression. Low, because moving parts are less present in the system of the absorption.
Bulkiness More less More
Presence of shelter Cannot situated in outside of the system without shelter Can be situated in outside of the system without shelter
Affected by loads Too much Reduction of load no effect
Leakage possibility More Less
Charging of refrigerant Simple Complicated
Working of high grade energy High, electrical energy is needed to precede the operation. Low, electrical energy is not needed to precede the operation, by the help of Ignition combustion engine, process heat or kerosene lamp the vapour absorption refrigeration cycle of a refrigeration system can work.
Operating cost High Less
Capacity Less, upto 1000 tons More, above 1000 tons
Suitable refrigerant NH­_3, R – 12, R- 11 Ammonia
Energy supplied as input Mechanical Heat energy
Condition of refrigerant Compressed Absorbed and heated.
Supply of energy Low High
Maintenance cost High Low
Pressure High Low
Work capacity Limited Large

Frequent Asked Question:-

Question: Write down the advantages of Vapor Compression refrigeration cycle.

Solution: The advantages of Vapor Compression refrigeration cycle is listed below,

  1. Coefficient of performance is too high.
  2. Size is not too big for this reason installation is easy.
  3. Running cost is low.
  4. Temperature can be easily handled by the help of regulating expansion valve.
  5. Evaporator size is not big.

Question: Write down the disadvantages of Vapor Compression refrigeration cycle.

Solution: The disadvantages of Vapor Compression refrigeration cycle is listed below,

  1. The refrigerants which are used they are toxic.
  2. Initial cost is high.
  3. Leakage is present.

High Limit Switch Furnace: Several Facts And FAQs

furnace limit switch

In this article we will discuss about the High Limit Switch Furnace. To operate a residential gas furnace safely and efficiently the use of a High Limit Switch is essential.

High Limit Switch, also known a “Fan Limit Switch” or simply “Limit Switch” plays an important role from safety point of view. The main function of a Limit Switch is to sense the temperature in the air plenum of the gas furnace and shuts off the burner as temperature goes to a limit which may cause a dangerous or uncomfortable condition. 

Why Does High Limit Switch Trip?

The suspected reason for High Limit Switch tripping is lack of airflow through the furnace, due to which temperature becomes high and the Limit Switch trips off.

An airflow issue through the furnace generally leads to Limit Switch tripping. Lots of reasons are there which prevent an adequate airflow throughout the system.

  • Air Filter: A dirty filter is one of the most common issue which prevents the flow of air through the furnace, resulting a very hot heat exchanger causing tripping of the Limit Switch. On the body of the air filter certain arrows are marked for the direction of air flow, these arrows must be followed properly to avoid any kind of air blockage.
  • Blocked Register: Through the registers, air flows out of a furnace, therefore the register should not be blocked to ensure proper movement of air.
  • Exhaust Vent: After the burning of gases inside the furnace, the exhaust gases should be vented out. The blockage of exhaust vent may cause overheating.
  • Blower Motor: If the blower motor is not working efficiently and air flow is not fast enough, then the heat exchanger get overheated.
  • Blocked ‘A’ Coil : ‘A’ Coil used to flow air from the system is sometimes clogged with debris.
  • Defective Limit Switch: Sometimes the Limit Switch itself going bad, this may be another reason for tripping. Then it has to be replaced or repaired for proper and safe functioning of the furnace.

Open High Limit Switch Furnace

A Furnace High Limit Switch is designed in such a manner so that it can activate and deactivate the furnace blower assembly as per the requirement.

Open High Limit Switch Furnace indicates the heating system turns off the fuel supply to prevent the overheating which may damage the furnace as well as create a dangerous situation inside the residence.

High Limit Switch Location

High Limit Switch Furnace is a small but very essential device used in air furnaces powered by natural gas, LP or heating oil.  

To detect the furnace Fan Limit Switch, cabinet cover should be removed. Generally it is attached to the plenum of the furnace above the combustion chamber or heat exchanger. Location of the Switch may vary as per the make and model of the Furnace.

high limit switch furnace
Components of A Gas Furnace; Image credit:flickr

How Does A Furnace High Limit Switch Work?

Furnace High Limit Switch protects the furnace as well as the home or business area by automatically bringing the temperature of the furnace down when it goes too high.

Acting as the key component of the furnace safety system, the two main functions of the High Limit Switch are:

  • Regulation of Fan Motor: It gives the blower fan an indication when to turn on and off. When the air is heated enough, it senses the supply air temperature and tells the fan to turn on in order to circulate hot air into the home. It allows the blower to keep on running until all heated air is distributed inside the residence completely.
  • Prevents from Overheating: It also identifies the supply air temperature, when the supply air temperature is too high, the components inside the furnace may get damaged. At this moment, the Limit Switch trips to shut down the system and stops furnace functions to control the temperature. In most extreme cases overheating may lead to fire hazards.
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Furnace High Limit Switch; Image Credit: Flickr

Bypass High Limit Switch Furnace

It is advice able that Fan Limit Switch or Limit Switch should be bypassed only for a temporary basis.

Limit Switch should be bypassed only for an essential reason like troubleshooting or testing purpose. A Furnace High Limit Switch acts as an essential part during the operation of a furnace by regulating the temperature, thereby it prevents the damages that may occur to the internal components of the furnace as well as maintain safety of the human being.

If we run a residential gas furnace without the Limit Switch for a long time, heat exchanger may damage and toxic gases may enter the living area of the residence. 

High Limit Switch Furnace reset

After detecting the problem associated with High Limit Switch and resolving it, the Limit Switch has to be reset for normal functioning of the furnace.

The steps to be followed for resetting the High Limit Switch Furnace are :

  • At the beginning we have to close the gas valve and cut off the power supply to deactivate the system. This step is done completely for safety purpose.
  • After that panel should be opened with the help of a screw driver to find the furnace’s heating duct.
  • Identify the white or silver Limit Switch, remove the cover to see the body of the switch with two metal arms.
  • These two arms are responsible for the high and low temperature range of the furnace.We have to identify the component in between these two arms which control the fan.
  • Fix the temperature of the central component at approximately 105-115 degrees Fahrenheit. Try to ensure the fan switches off and on at accurate time.
  • Now set the temperature on the left component at around 90 degree Fahrenheit, which will give indication to the left arm to stop blowing cold air when it reaches 90 degrees ,similarly set right arm at 200 degree Fahrenheit, which indicates the furnace to shut off when the burner reaches this temperature.
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A home high energy efficient furnace in a basement; Image Credit: Unsplash

How to Replace?

The Furnace High Limit Switch helps to ensure your safety and the comfort of your home.

The steps to be followed to replace a defective High Limit Switch Furnace are:

  1. At first we have to deactivate the furnace using service switch or circuit breaker to avoid any kind of accident.
  2. After that replace the old one and fix the new Limit Switch by wiring it exactly the old Switch. It is quite simple since it has only two wires coming off and two screws are there to hold it in place. For further issues the instruction manual provided along with the Limit Switch can be followed.
  3. After setting up the new Switch, furnace can be activated and regulate the thermostat to get accurate signs of the heating process of the furnace. Sufficient amount of hot air through the vent will justify smooth replacement of the Limit Switch.

How to Test High Limit Switch Furnace?

After checking all the possible reason of tripping up of the High Limit Switch Furnace and it is noticed that blower motor is working, filter is clean enough then the Limit Switch is need to be tested.

Testing of High Limit Switch Furnace is a DIY task which can be easily done with the help of a screwdriver and a multi-meter. Steps Followed to test High Limit Switch Furnace are:

  • First of all deactivate the system either by turning off the serviceman switch or shutting the power off at the breaker panel.
  • Opening the panel and identify the white or silver High Limit Switch.
  • Disconnect the wires attached to the switch, try to remember the connection to reconnect them.
  • Now with the help of a multi-meter, test if there is continuity between the two arms.

If the High Limit Switch Furnace is faulty, replace it with a new one.

In continuity test of a High Limit Switch Furnace, a multi-meter set is used to measure resistance in ohms, small electric current is sent between the switch terminals and measures the resistance between them.

Generally two possible rest results are: Zero (or near to zero),indicating switch is closed and current is flowing. Another possibility is Very High or Infinite, indicating the switch is open.