Methane Adiabatic Flame Temperature Calculator

Adiabatic Flame Temperature Equation:

\[ T_{ad} = T_0 + \frac{\Delta H_c}{C_p} \]

Initial Temperature (T₀):

Enthalpy of Combustion (ΔH_c):

kJ/mol

Specific Heat Capacity (C_p):

J/mol·K

Theoretical Maximum Temperature (T_ad):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Adiabatic Flame Temperature?

The adiabatic flame temperature is the theoretical maximum temperature that can be achieved by a combustible mixture when the combustion process occurs without any heat loss to the surroundings. It represents the ideal case where all the chemical energy released during combustion is used to heat the combustion products.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the adiabatic flame temperature equation:

\[ T_{ad} = T_0 + \frac{\Delta H_c}{C_p} \]

Where:

\( T_{ad} \) — Adiabatic flame temperature (K)
\( T_0 \) — Initial temperature (K)
\( \Delta H_c \) — Enthalpy of combustion (kJ/mol)
\( C_p \) — Specific heat capacity (J/mol·K)

Explanation: The equation calculates the temperature rise by dividing the heat released during combustion by the heat capacity of the combustion products, then adding this to the initial temperature.

3. Importance of Adiabatic Flame Temperature

Details: Adiabatic flame temperature is crucial for designing combustion systems, predicting flame behavior, optimizing thermal efficiency, and ensuring safe operation in engines, furnaces, and industrial burners.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter initial temperature in Kelvin, enthalpy of combustion in kJ/mol, and specific heat capacity in J/mol·K. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is the actual flame temperature lower than adiabatic?
A: Actual flames lose heat to surroundings through radiation, conduction, and incomplete combustion, making them cooler than the theoretical maximum.

Q2: What is the typical adiabatic flame temperature for methane?
A: For methane combustion with air, the adiabatic flame temperature is approximately 2220-2270 K under standard conditions.

Q3: How does excess air affect flame temperature?
A: Excess air dilutes the combustion products, increasing the mass that must be heated and thus lowering the flame temperature.

Q4: What factors influence the accuracy of this calculation?
A: Temperature-dependent specific heat, dissociation of combustion products at high temperatures, and pressure effects can affect accuracy.

Q5: Can this equation be used for other fuels?
A: Yes, the same principle applies to other fuels, but you need the appropriate enthalpy of combustion and specific heat values for each fuel.