Heat transfer coefficient: a review of measurement techniques

Abstract

Heat transfer coefficient is a basic parameter used in the calculation of convective heat transfer problems. Due to the importance of the experimental measurements for the development of convective heat transfer, this review identifies, classifies and describes the experimental methods used for the measurement of heat transfer coefficient. The methods were classified into five major groups: (1) direct method, (2) transient method, (3) Wilson method, (4) heat/momentum/mass transfer analogy method and (5) boundary layer thickness method. Their applications, limitations and the reported accuracy were evaluated in the context of new developments in temperature and heat flux measurement techniques. Finally, this review provides criteria for the selection of the most suitable technique for measurements of heat transfer coefficient according to the aspects of spatial resolution, geometric scale, intrusiveness, fluid type, response time and accuracy.