Exploring Thermal Conductivity: Experimental Insights Into Heat Transfer Properties Of Common Materials

Abstract

This study investigates the thermal conductivity of various materials, focusing on their heat transfer capabilities under controlled laboratory conditions. The research employs extensive experimental analysis, including measurements of heat flux, temperature gradients, and material dimensions, to determine thermal conductivities for materials such as aluminum, copper, glass, and wood. Using Fourier’s law of heat conduction as the theoretical framework, the experiment involved precise instrumentation, including thermocouples and data acquisition systems, to ensure accurate data collection. Error propagation analysis was conducted to quantify uncertainties in the measurements. The results reveal significant differences in the thermal conductivities of these materials, providing insights into the physical mechanisms governing heat transfer and their practical applications in engineering, thermal management systems, and material science. This comprehensive approach bridges theoretical concepts with real-world applications, making the findings valuable for designing efficient heat transfer and insulation systems.