Calculate Condensate Flow Rate From Cooling Coil

Condensate Rate Formula:

\[ \dot{m} = \frac{Q_{\text{latent}}}{h_{fg}} \]

Condensate Flow Rate (ṁ):

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1. What is Condensate Flow Rate?

The condensate flow rate (ṁ) represents the mass flow rate of water condensed from air passing through a cooling coil. It is calculated from the latent heat removal during the dehumidification process and the latent heat of vaporization of water.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the condensate rate formula:

\[ \dot{m} = \frac{Q_{\text{latent}}}{h_{fg}} \]

Where:

\( \dot{m} \) — Condensate flow rate (kg/s)
\( Q_{\text{latent}} \) — Latent heat removal (W)
\( h_{fg} \) — Latent heat of vaporization (J/kg)

Explanation: The formula calculates the mass of water condensed per second based on the energy removed during the phase change from vapor to liquid.

3. Importance of Condensate Flow Calculation

Details: Accurate condensate flow calculation is essential for proper drainage system design, preventing water damage, ensuring efficient HVAC operation, and maintaining indoor air quality by removing excess moisture.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter latent heat removal in watts and latent heat of vaporization in joules per kilogram. Both values must be positive numbers. For water at standard conditions, h_fg is approximately 2,260,000 J/kg.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is latent heat removal?
A: Latent heat removal is the energy removed during the phase change process when water vapor condenses to liquid, without changing the temperature.

Q2: What is the typical value for h_fg?
A: For water at atmospheric pressure and 100°C, h_fg is 2,257,000 J/kg. At typical air conditioning conditions (around 10-15°C), it's approximately 2,465,000 J/kg.

Q3: Why is condensate flow rate important in HVAC design?
A: Proper condensate drainage prevents water accumulation, mold growth, and system damage. It ensures the cooling coil operates efficiently and maintains desired humidity levels.

Q4: How is latent heat removal measured or calculated?
A: Latent heat removal can be calculated from psychrometric charts using air flow rate and humidity ratio difference, or measured directly using specialized HVAC instrumentation.

Q5: What factors affect condensate formation?
A: Air humidity, cooling coil temperature, air flow rate, and coil surface area all influence the amount of condensate formed during the cooling process.