Predicting Frost Formation Rate: A Solvable Problem?

In summary, predicting the rate of formation of frost around a pipe carrying cryogenic fluid based on relative humidity is a complex and difficult problem. There are many variables to consider and making assumptions may not yield an accurate solution. It may be best to simply insulate the pipe and not worry about the problem.
  • #1
raveen323
1
0
Hi,
Could you please explain me how to predict the rate of formation of frost around a pipe carrying cryogenic fluid if the relative humidity is known?

I am not able to make any assumptions as frost is porous.
Is experimental analysis the only solution to this problem ?
Can it be solved by taking some assumptions?

Raveen
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
I would hazard that this would be a wildly intractable problem.
There are so many variables.

If I were forced to take a stab at it, I'd have to assume that the main heat gain was due to the frost formation so that the latent heat of melting/freezing would be the major factor. But that neglects the very significant losses by convection, radiation and conduction, which are incalculable. I doubt that the answer would be even close to reality.

Why not just lag it well and good and forget about the problem?
 

FAQ: Predicting Frost Formation Rate: A Solvable Problem?

What factors affect the rate of frost formation?

The rate of frost formation is affected by several factors, including air temperature, humidity, wind speed, and the presence of impurities in the air. These factors can either promote or inhibit the formation of frost on surfaces.

How does air temperature affect the rate of frost formation?

As air temperature decreases, the rate of frost formation also decreases. This is because colder air has a lower capacity to hold water vapor, leading to a higher likelihood of water vapor condensing and forming frost on surfaces.

Does humidity play a role in the rate of frost formation?

Yes, humidity is a significant factor in the rate of frost formation. Higher humidity levels mean there is more water vapor in the air, which can lead to more condensation and faster frost formation on surfaces.

How does wind speed impact the rate of frost formation?

Wind can either promote or inhibit the formation of frost. A light breeze can help distribute moisture in the air and promote frost formation, while stronger winds can prevent frost from forming by removing moisture from surfaces.

Can the presence of impurities in the air affect the rate of frost formation?

Yes, impurities such as dust or pollutants in the air can affect the rate of frost formation. These particles can act as nuclei for water vapor to condense around, promoting the formation of frost. However, excessive amounts of impurities can lead to a decrease in the rate of frost formation due to the particles absorbing heat and preventing surfaces from reaching the dew point temperature.

Similar threads

Predicting flow rates of a pressure driven system
Replies
8
Views
2K
Cooling of a thick walled pipe transporting water
Replies
4
Views
2K
Why is the flow rate reversing in this fuel delivery system?
Replies
22
Views
2K
How can I predict the flow rate for a real life water hose?
Replies
29
Views
5K
I How weather conditions affect a golf shot
Replies
6
Views
2K
A different related rates problem - no time mentioned
Replies
13
Views
1K
Finding order of reaction & rate constant
Replies
3
Views
4K
What is the lapse rate in a simplified model of cloud formation?
Replies
14
Views
2K
Pressure trace of a tank fed by a compressor
Replies
1
Views
1K
Pressure and Flow Rate in a Tank
Replies
10
Views
3K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top