How to Calculate K Factor in Sheet Metal
The K-factor, or thermal conductivity, is a crucial property of sheet metal, determining its heat transfer efficiency. Accurately calculating the K-factor is vital for designing efficient heat exchangers and other thermal systems.
- Select the material of your sheet metal.
- Enter the thickness and width of the sheet metal.
- Click the ‘Calculate’ button.
- View your results and chart below.
The K-factor (k) is calculated using the formula: k = (α * t) / (ρ * c * p), where:
- α is the thermal diffusivity,
- t is the thickness,
- ρ is the density,
- c is the specific heat capacity, and
- p is the width of the sheet metal.
| Material | Density (kg/m³) | Specific Heat Capacity (J/(kg·K)) | Thermal Diffusivity (m²/s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | 7,930 | 480 | 1.67 x 10^-5 |
| Aluminum | 2,700 | 900 | 8.4 x 10^-5 |
| Galvanized Iron | 7,850 | 480 | 1.7 x 10^-5 |
- Always use accurate material properties for precise calculations.
- Consider the impact of temperature on material properties.
- Regularly clean and maintain heat exchangers to prevent fouling.
What is the K-factor?
The K-factor, or thermal conductivity, is a material’s ability to conduct heat.