How to Use Thermal Diffusivity Calculator
The Thermal Diffusivity Calculator finds how quickly a material can equalize temperature. A high α means heat propagates fast; a low α means the material resists rapid temperature change.
- Enter thermal conductivity k — In W/(m·K).
- Enter density ρ — In kg/m³.
- Enter specific heat capacity cp — In J/(kg·K).
- Read α — The Thermal Diffusivity Calculator returns α in m²/s.
Formula & Theory — Thermal Diffusivity Calculator
α = k / (ρ · cp)| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| α | Thermal diffusivity (m²/s) |
| k | Thermal conductivity W/(m·K) |
| ρ | Density (kg/m³) |
| cp | Specific heat capacity at constant pressure J/(kg·K) |
Typical α values: copper ≈ 1.11×10⁻⁴, aluminum ≈ 9.7×10⁻⁵, glass ≈ 3.4×10⁻⁷, dry air ≈ 2.2×10⁻⁵ m²/s.
Assumptions and Limits
The Thermal Diffusivity Calculator treats the material as isotropic and uses constant property values. For composites or anisotropic crystals, the result is directional.
Use Cases for Thermal Diffusivity Calculator
- Transient conduction — Compute Biot and Fourier numbers for unsteady problems.
- Material selection — Compare metals, polymers, and ceramics for thermal-shock resistance.
- Building physics — Predict how quickly a wall warms in sunlight.
- Manufacturing — Estimate cooling times during casting or welding.
The Thermal Diffusivity Calculator is a quick gateway to dimensional analysis of transient heat transfer.