Heat Transfer into a 1000L container

In summary, the conversation discusses two standard plastic containers filled with different amounts of water and air, both wrapped in insulating blankets. The question at hand is which tank will heat up faster and why, with the conclusion being that it depends on the initial temperature and proximity of the tanks.
  • #1
emericas2015
4
0
Have been slightly racking my brains trying to remember the basics of this, but have a quick and probably pretty simple heat transfer problem. Was in a discussion

Two standard 1000 liters square enclosed plastic HDPE containers (1m x 1m x 1m).
One is filled up 800 liters (some air present at top)
One is filled up only to 200 liters (lots of air up at top)

Each tank is wrapped in a 2kW tank insulating heater blanket (around the sides). Tops and bottoms are also insulated (although no heat applied to those portions).

What are the heat transfer physics at play here? Which tank will heat up the fastest, but more importantly, scientifically why? My prediction was that it would be about equal due to the fact that although the filled tank is more mass, there is more surface area being heated through conduction of HDPE to water.
 
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  • #2
emericas2015 said:
Have been slightly racking my brains trying to remember the basics of this, but have a quick and probably pretty simple heat transfer problem. Was in a discussion

Two standard 1000 liters square enclosed plastic HDPE containers (1m x 1m x 1m).
One is filled up 800 liters (some air present at top)
One is filled up only to 200 liters (lots of air up at top)

Each tank is wrapped in a 2kW tank insulating heater blanket (around the sides). Tops and bottoms are also insulated (although no heat applied to those portions).

What are the heat transfer physics at play here?
Entirely internal ... no heat sources are provided, and temperatures of the materials is not given.

Which tank will heat up the fastest, but more importantly, scientifically why?
Neither - no heat source and no temperature data. Just wrapping something in a blanket does not heat it up.

My prediction was that it would be about equal due to the fact that although the filled tank is more mass, there is more surface area being heated through conduction of HDPE to water.
You are proposing that the temperature outside the container/insulation is higher than the temperature inside, and the insides are initially at the same temperature?
Then heat initially flows equally into both materials ... a quick and dirty calculation for how fast the temperature climbs will follow the heat capacities ... water heats up much slower than air. The tank with the most air will likely get warmer sooner.
If you think about it - put two pots in the oven, different amounts of water in each pot: which pot will boil first?

If the tanks are next to each other ... then they can exchange heat depending on the proximity.
 

Related to Heat Transfer into a 1000L container

1. How does the size of the container affect heat transfer?

The size of the container affects heat transfer in two main ways: surface area and volume. A larger container will have a larger surface area, which allows for more heat to be transferred between the container and its surroundings. Additionally, a larger container will have a larger volume, which means it will take longer for the heat to penetrate through the entire volume of the container.

2. What is the most efficient way to transfer heat into a 1000L container?

The most efficient way to transfer heat into a 1000L container is through convection. This involves using a fluid, such as water or air, to transfer the heat from a heat source to the container. Convection allows for a more even distribution of heat throughout the container, resulting in faster and more efficient heating.

3. How does the material of the container affect heat transfer?

The material of the container can greatly affect heat transfer. Some materials, such as metals, are good conductors of heat, meaning they can easily transfer heat from the source to the container. Other materials, such as plastics, are poor conductors and will result in slower heat transfer. Additionally, the thickness and insulation of the material can also impact heat transfer.

4. Is it possible to overheat a 1000L container?

Yes, it is possible to overheat a 1000L container. The amount of heat that can be transferred into the container depends on several factors, including the heat source, the container's material and insulation, and the surrounding environment. If the container is heated too quickly or with a high enough heat source, it can reach temperatures that could potentially damage the container or its contents.

5. How does the placement of the heat source affect heat transfer into a 1000L container?

The placement of the heat source can greatly affect heat transfer into a 1000L container. Placing the heat source directly under the container will result in faster and more efficient heating, as the heat will rise and directly heat the container. Placing the heat source to the side or at a distance will result in slower heat transfer, as the heat must travel further to reach the container.

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