Heat is a form of energy in transition and it flows from one system to another, without transfer of mass, whenever there is a temperature difference between the systems. The process of heat transfer means the exchange in internal energy between the systems and in almost every phase of scientific and engineering work processes, we encounter the flow of heat energy.

Importance of Heat Transfer

Heat transfer processes involve the transfer and conversion of energy and therefore, it is essential to determine the specified rate of heat transfer at a specified temperature difference. The design of equipments like boilers, refrigerators and other heat exchangers require a detailed analysis of transferring a given amount of heat energy within a specified time. Components like gas/steam turbine blades, combustion chamber walls, electrical machines, electronic gadgets, transformers, bearings, etc require continuous removal of heat energy at a rapid rate in order to avoid their overheating. Thus, a thorough understanding of the physical mechanism of heat flow and the governing laws of heat transfer are a must.