What Is This Tool?
This tool allows you to convert heat transfer coefficients measured in joule/second/square meter/K (SI units) into CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C, which is commonly used in building codes and energy modeling. It helps translate heat flow rates per unit area for each degree of temperature difference between two unit systems.
How to Use This Tool?
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Enter the value of heat transfer coefficient in joule/second/square meter/K
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Select the source unit as joule/second/square meter/K
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Choose the target unit as CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C
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Click convert to get the heat transfer coefficient in the desired unit
Key Features
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Converts heat transfer coefficients between joule/second/square meter/K and CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C
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Helps in building envelope and HVAC system thermal performance analysis
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Supports comparisons of U-values in different measurement systems
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Browser-based and easy to use with clear input and output units
Examples
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Convert 5 joule/second/square meter/K: results in approximately 0.8805509185 CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C
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Convert 10 joule/second/square meter/K: results in approximately 1.761101837 CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C
Common Use Cases
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Calculating U-values and heat loss through walls, windows, and roofs in building design
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Estimating convective heat transfer coefficients in HVAC and aerodynamic cooling applications
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Evaluating insulation or coating thermal performance and rating heat exchangers
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Performing energy modeling and retrofit assessments for building code compliance
Tips & Best Practices
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Always confirm that temperature scales are consistent when interpreting results
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Consider area and time unit differences carefully to avoid conversion errors
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Use this conversion for steady-state heat transfer analysis rather than transient conditions
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Cross-check converted values with building or HVAC project requirements for accuracy
Limitations
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Requires assumption of steady-state conditions for heat transfer
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Users must be aware that %b0C signifies degree Celsius and ensure unit consistency
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Conversion involves changing area units (square meters to square feet) and time units (seconds to hours), which can introduce errors if not handled correctly
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May not accurately represent transient heat transfer phenomena or dynamic systems
Frequently Asked Questions
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What does joule/second/square meter/K measure?
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It measures a heat transfer coefficient representing the rate of heat flow per unit area per unit temperature difference in SI units.
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Why convert from joule/second/square meter/K to CHU/hour/square foot/%b0C?
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The conversion helps translate heat transfer coefficients to units commonly used in building codes, energy modeling, and thermal performance assessments in regions using imperial or alternative systems.
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Are there any assumptions when using this converter?
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Yes, it assumes steady-state heat transfer and consistent temperature scales, as well as proper conversion between area and time units.
Key Terminology
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Heat Transfer Coefficient
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A value that measures the rate of heat transfer per unit area per unit temperature difference between a surface and its surroundings.
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U-value
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A measure of thermal transmittance representing heat flow through building elements per unit area and temperature difference.
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Steady-State Conditions
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A situation where variables such as temperature and heat flow remain constant over time, appropriate for this conversion.