Water mixing temperature- different flow rates

In summary, to determine the temperature of the resultant flow when 15 l/s of 14 degC water is mixed with 76.4 l/s of 41 deg C water, you can use the mass and energy balance equation to calculate the enthalpy at the exit. This can then be used to find the corresponding temperature in a steam table or REFPROP database. This method assumes that the inlet temperatures are below the saturation temperature of water at the specified pressure.
  • #1
Elodie Sandou
2
0

Homework Statement


What is the temperature of the resultant flow if you have 15 l/s of 14 degC water mixing with 76.4 l/s of 41 deg C water?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



delta T colder water = delta T warmer water
 
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  • #2
Elodie Sandou said:

Homework Statement


What is the temperature of the resultant flow if you have 15 l/s of 14 degC water mixing with 76.4 l/s of 41 deg C water?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



delta T colder water = delta T warmer water

This would be a typical mixing chamber type problem, but you'll need to know the pressure. The mass and energy balance yields:

[tex] h_3 = \frac{\dot{m_1}h_1 + \dot{m_2}h_2}{\dot{m_1} + \dot{m_2}} [/tex]

The m_dots with subs 1 and 2 are the respective mass flow rates coming into the mixing chamber. The h's are the respective enthalpies. They can be looked up in a steam table based on the inlet temperatures. This assumes of course that the inlet temperatures are below the saturation temperature of water at the specified pressure (i.e. it is in the compressed liquid state). Assuming that criterion is satisfied, the enthalpy of a compressed liquid can be approximated as a saturated liquid at the given temperature.

Once you have the enthalpy at the exit (h_3) you can look up the corresponding temperature in a steam table (or REFPROP if you have that database). If the exact enthalpy doesn't appear in your table you can interpolate and get a reasonable answer (depending on what accuracy you want).

Hope that helps.

CS
 
  • #3
Dear CS,
Thank you very much for your help! I had asked 4 engineers previous to this, but they all suggested a weighted average. Thanks again.
 

FAQ: Water mixing temperature- different flow rates

What is water mixing temperature?

Water mixing temperature refers to the temperature that results from combining two or more different water sources. This can occur naturally, such as when two rivers merge, or can be intentionally done, such as in a water treatment plant.

How does flow rate affect water mixing temperature?

The flow rate of water can greatly impact the mixing temperature. When water from two sources with different temperatures is mixed, the resulting temperature will depend on the flow rate of each source. Higher flow rates will result in a more thorough mixing and a more uniform temperature, while lower flow rates may result in a temperature gradient within the mixed water.

What factors can influence water mixing temperature?

Besides flow rate, other factors that can influence water mixing temperature include the initial temperature of the water sources, the size and shape of the mixing vessel, and any physical or chemical properties of the water, such as salinity or pH.

Can water mixing temperature be controlled?

Yes, water mixing temperature can be controlled to some extent. By adjusting the flow rates and the initial temperatures of the water sources, the resulting mixing temperature can be manipulated. However, there are limits to how much control can be achieved, and factors such as turbulence and heat transfer may also affect the resulting temperature.

Why is understanding water mixing temperature important?

Understanding water mixing temperature is important for a variety of reasons. In environmental studies, it can help predict the effects of river or ocean confluences on water temperature and aquatic life. In engineering and water treatment, it can inform the design and operation of mixing systems. Additionally, understanding water mixing temperature is crucial for maintaining water quality and safety in industries such as food and beverage production.

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