A steam pipe is to be lined with two layers of insulating materials of...
Ans. (a) For minimum heat transfer, the better insulation must be put inside.
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A steam pipe is to be lined with two layers of insulating materials of...
Explanation:
Introduction:
When it comes to insulating a steam pipe, it is important to consider the thermal conductivities of the insulating materials. The thermal conductivity of a material determines its ability to conduct heat. A lower thermal conductivity means that the material is a better insulator and will prevent heat transfer more effectively. In this case, the steam pipe is to be lined with two layers of insulating materials with different thermal conductivities.
Choosing the better insulation:
The question asks for the configuration that minimizes heat transfer. To achieve this, the better insulation should be placed on the inside of the steam pipe. This means that option 'A' is the correct answer.
Reasoning:
To understand why the better insulation should be placed on the inside, we need to consider the heat transfer mechanisms involved. Heat is transferred through conduction, convection, and radiation.
Conduction:
Conduction occurs when heat is transferred through direct contact between materials. In this case, the heat from the steam in the pipe will be conducted through the insulating layers towards the outer surface of the pipe. Placing the better insulation on the inside will reduce the rate of heat conduction, as the material with lower thermal conductivity will hinder the transfer of heat towards the outer surface.
Convection:
Convection is the transfer of heat through the movement of fluids. In the case of a steam pipe, the convective heat transfer is not significant as there is no fluid flow on the outer surface of the pipe. Therefore, the impact of insulation on convective heat transfer is negligible.
Radiation:
Radiation is the transfer of heat through electromagnetic waves. In the case of a steam pipe, radiation heat transfer is also not significant as the outer surface of the pipe is typically covered with insulation or a protective layer. Therefore, the impact of insulation on radiative heat transfer is also negligible.
Conclusion:
Considering the minimal impact of convection and radiation, the primary heat transfer mechanism to be addressed is conduction. Placing the better insulation on the inside of the steam pipe will reduce the rate of heat conduction and minimize the overall heat transfer. Therefore, option 'A' is the correct answer.
A steam pipe is to be lined with two layers of insulating materials of...
A
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