Reports

Comparison of insulation of tanks with experiments and heat transfer models

Published:

01/04/2008

Authors:

Björn Margeirsson

Supported by:

Promens Dalvík ehf, Matís ohf

Comparison of insulation of tanks with experiments and heat transfer models

The aim of the project was to investigate the insulation value of three types of fish tanks. The pots were either insulated with polyethylene or polyurethane foam and of two sizes, 400 and 460 L. In two experiments, the temperature rise of water in the pots was monitored with a time with the initial temperature of the water approx. 4 ° C and ambient temperature approx. 18-20 ° C. The increase in temperature was also assessed using computerized heat transfer (CFD) models. The effect of forced airflow around the pot (forced heat transfer) was assessed by comparison with the heat condition in free heat transfer (in heat). The study showed that there is a considerable difference in the insulation of different pots and the pots came out differently depending on whether it was free or forced heat transfer. The results of measurements and heat transfer models for calm pots were well matched, but the model for wind pots needs to be improved. In further research into the insulation value of the pots, frozen fish should be used instead of water to further mimic the actual situation.

The aim of the project was to investigate the insulation capability of three types of fishing tubs. The tubs were either insulated with polyethylene or polyurethane foam and of two sizes; 400 and 460 L. In two experiments water temperature inside the tubs was monitored with initial water temperature ca. 4 ° C and ambient temperature ca. 18-20 ° C. The water temperature was also simulated in computational fluid dynamics models (CFD models). Influence of forcing air flow around the tubs (forced convection) was evaluated by comparison to free convection. Considerable difference was found between insulation capabilities of the different fishing tubs. Forced convection had different effects on different tub types. A good congruity was between experimental and CFD results for tubs in no wind, but some improvements should be done for the CFD model for tubs in wind (forced convection). In further research on insulation capability of the tubs iced fish should be used instead of water in order to resemble practical situations.

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