Logarithmic Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD)
Logarithmic mean temperature difference (LMTD) is defined as that temperature difference which, if constant, would give the same rate of heat transfer as actually occurs under variable conditions of temperature difference.
In order to derive expression for LMTD for various types of heat exchangers, the following assumptions are made :
1. The overall heat transfer coefficient U is constant.
2. The flow conditions are steady.
3. The specific heats and mass flow rates of both fluids are constant.
4. There is no loss of heat to the surroundings, due to the heat exchanger being perfectly insulated.
5. There is no change of phase either of the fluids during the heat transfer.
6. The changes in potential and kinetic energies are negligible.
7. Axial conduction along the tubes of the heat exchanger is negligible.
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon