For a sensible heat load, Q = ṁ × cp × ΔT. For water near room temperature, Q(kW) ≈ 1.163 × flow(m³/h) × ΔT(K). This estimates the process duty; final equipment selection also requires actual operating conditions.

Use consistent units

Mass flow in kg/s, specific heat in kJ/(kg·K) and temperature difference in K produce kW. Volumetric flow in m³/h requires density and a conversion by 3600 seconds. The approximate 1.163 coefficient is for water and must not be applied directly to glycol mixtures.

Example: water at 12 m³/h and a 4 K difference

12 × 4 × 1.163 = 55.824 kW, or approximately 55.8 kW of heat duty. This is an educational example. Adding another 20 kW for the same process load already measured by flow and temperature would double-count it. Only a separate independent load should be added.

From duty to equipment selection

Define design fluid temperature, ambient conditions, glycol concentration, minimum load, operating hours and future expansion. A universal safety percentage is unsuitable for every project. Confirm the selected unit using manufacturer performance data at the stated conditions.

Project inputs and calculation boundaries

For a quotation, specify approximate heat duty, fluid, inlet and outlet temperatures, flow, pressure loss and operating hours. Design ambient conditions, indoor or outdoor location and electrical infrastructure are also selection inputs. Flow and temperature readings must represent the same operating point. Do not transfer a catalogue capacity directly to different temperatures; confirm model performance at the required duty.

Commissioning and operating records

Check circuit cleanliness, filtration, air removal, proven flow and sensor readings. Record reference water temperatures and load conditions during commissioning. These values provide a baseline for maintenance and alarm investigations. Confirm pumps, tanks, connections and control options against the agreed quotation scope.

Frequently asked questions

Is the series capacity range sufficient for final selection?

No. Confirm the actual model at the required fluid temperature, ambient conditions, fluid properties and hydraulic duty.

Is cooling capacity the electrical consumption?

No. Cooling kW and electrical-input kW are different quantities. An energy assessment also needs actual load and operating hours.

What information is needed for a quotation?

Provide the industry or equipment, target temperature, approximate duty, flow, ambient conditions, operating hours and details of the existing system.

These explanations provide general engineering guidance. Examples are not field measurements or performance guarantees for a particular model.