Introduction
Calculating the output of a furnace can be a daunting task for some individuals, especially for those unfamiliar with furnace engineering. Knowing how to calculate furnace output is essential for understanding the operational efficiency of any furnace and for ensuring proper system design. This article will explain how to calculate the output of a furnace and highlight some of the key aspects to consider when calculating furnace output.
Calculation method
The most common methods of calculating furnace output involve either calculating the input energy to the furnace (known as input BTUs or British Thermal Units) or calculating the output energy produced by the furnace (known as output BTUs or British Thermal Units). It is important to note that when using an input BTU calculation, the amount of energy input to the furnace must be accurately determined for the calculation to be accurate.
Input BTU calculation
The formula for calculating input BTUs is as follows: BTU = CFM x ΔT x 1.08, where CFM stands for cubic feet per minute, and ΔT stands for the difference in temperature between the incoming air and the furnace outlet. To accurately calculate input BTUs, it is important to measure the air temperature at the inlet and outlet of the furnace.
Output BTU calculation
The formula for calculating output BTUs is as follows: BTU = CFM x ΔT x 0.93, where CFM is the cubic feet per minute, and ΔT is the difference in temperature between the furnace inlet and the furnace outlet. Once again, it is important to accurately measure the air temperature at the inlet and outlet of the furnace in order to get the most accurate BTU calculation.
Other considerations
In addition to calculating input and output BTUs, there are a few other considerations to keep in mind when calculating furnace output. One of the most important aspects is to ensure the furnace is properly sized for the space it is being used in. Knowing the dimensions of the space and the furnace inlet and outlet temperatures is important for ensuring the correct size furnace is selected. Additionally, the type of fuel being used in the furnace needs to be taken into account as different fuels have different heat outputs.
Conclusion
Calculating the output of a furnace is an important step in understanding an operational efficiency of any furnace. The two most common methods for calculating furnace output involve calculating input BTUs or calculating output BTUs, both of which require an accurate measurement of the air temperature at the inlet and outlet of the furnace. Additionally, it is important to ensure the furnace is properly sized for the space it is being used in, as well as understanding the type of fuel being used and the efficiency of the furnace. By following these steps and understanding the calculation process, individuals can ensure they have the most accurate and efficient furnace output calculation.