# Pipe Materials Thermal Conductivity

FluidFlow contains an extensive database of pipe material types. The thermal conductivity data for each type is defined within the database and is included when carrying out pipe/duct heat transfer calculations. Figure 1 provides an overview of the pipe material types which can be accessed by selecting the Database | Pipe Materials Thermal Conductivity menu item: Figure 1: Pipe Materials Thermal Conductivity Database.
Data Entry
Insulation Name | Descriptive name for the entry.
Insulation Definition | There are three possible definitions: ▪Undefined ▪Fixed Value ▪Table
Conductivity | Value for pipe thermal conductivity which will be used in pipe heat transfer calculations. Note: Visible only when 'Fixed Value' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Conductivity Unit | Refers to the units used to specify the conductivity value. Note: Visible only when 'Fixed Value' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Table | Defines a table of values for thermal conductivity vs. temperature. Figure 2 provides an example of steel which has been defined using values for thermal conductivity vs. temperature. Note: Visible only when 'Table' is selected for 'Insulation Definition'.
Figure 2: Pipe Materials Thermal Conductivity Curve-Fit. To create the curve-fit, simply enter the coordinates as provided by the manufacturer in the columns on the left hand side. FluidFlow will automatically create the curve-fit once a minimum of three coordinates have been defined.
Curve Fit Data Entry
Curve Fit Type | There are two options to choose from: Linear and Polynomial.
Equation Order | There are a number of options available including: Linear, Quartic, Cubic, etc.
Temperature Unit | Refers to the unit of temperature that is used to specify the temperature value.
Thermal Conductivity Unit | Refers to the units that are used to specify the thermal conductivity values.
If any of the above is unclear, or you require any further information, please contact us at: support@fluidflowinfo.com.