Thermal Modeling: Predicting Water Temperature in an EPS Box

In summary, the speaker is looking for help in predicting the temperature range inside an insulated EPS box containing a small container of water, as well as frozen and refrigerated water packs. The ambient temperature outside the box is constant. The speaker has not done any thermal calculations in a while and is asking for the necessary steps and formulas to make the predictions. They mention that typically the temperature inside starts at 6ºC, drops, and ends up a little over 8ºC, but never goes below 0ºC. They also mention that the temperature inside is not constant and they are looking for a faster way to calculate it instead of relying on real-time testing. They clarify that the water is surrounded by 5ºC gel packs
  • #1
Fancy Moses
11
0
Hi all!

I need to figure out a way I can predict the temperature range a small container of water (neglect properties small container and focussing on the water itself) will hold within an insulated expanded polystyrene (EPS) box of a given thickness, over a period of time. We can assume the ambient temperature is constant outside the EPS box. Surrounding the small container of water will be some frozen (~ -20ºC) water packs and some refrigerated (~ 5ºC) water packs that will all fit inside the EPS box. So a 2D cross section would show the layers in this order (outermost to innermost): EPS, Frozen water pack, refrigerated water pack, container of water. All the dimensions would initially be provided. I have some testing to do and this would REALLY save me some time. I haven't done any thermo in a long time so I'm sort of struggling with this one. I'm not looking for anything solved, just the necessary steps required and formulas associated.

Thanks!
 
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  • #2
if outside you have a ice pack+water mixtire, then the temperature of anything that is inside will be held at zero until all the ice melts.
 
  • #3
Typically the temperature of the water inside starts around 6ºC, drops, then ends up a little over 8ºC. It never gets below 0. The water is surrounded by 5ºC gel packs, those have a few -20ºC ice packs around them and the everything is packed inside an EPS case. It never stays constant - I wish it would, it would make everything a lot easier. I'm asking for advice on how to calculate this because right now I do it with real time testing and I need to speed the process up. It doesn't have to be 100% accurate, just a relatively close estimate.
 
  • #4
No answers?
 

FAQ: Thermal Modeling: Predicting Water Temperature in an EPS Box

How is thermal modeling used to predict water temperature in an EPS box?

Thermal modeling is a process that uses mathematical equations and computer simulations to predict the temperature changes in a system. In this case, it is used to predict the temperature of water inside an EPS (expanded polystyrene) box.

What factors are taken into account when creating a thermal model for an EPS box?

The thermal conductivity of the EPS material, the thickness of the box walls, the ambient temperature, the initial temperature of the water, and any heat sources or sinks inside the box are some of the factors that are considered when creating a thermal model for an EPS box.

How accurate are thermal models in predicting water temperature in an EPS box?

The accuracy of a thermal model depends on the quality and quantity of data used to create it. With accurate input parameters and assumptions, a thermal model can provide a close estimation of the water temperature inside an EPS box.

Can thermal modeling be used to predict the time it takes for the water to reach a certain temperature in an EPS box?

Yes, thermal modeling can also be used to predict the time it takes for the water to reach a specific temperature inside an EPS box. This can be useful in determining the best insulation methods for the box.

How can thermal modeling be used to improve the design of an EPS box?

By using thermal modeling, different design options and materials can be tested to determine the most efficient and cost-effective way to insulate an EPS box. This can also help identify potential issues and provide solutions to optimize the design for maintaining water temperature.

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