Layer resistance
R = L / (kA)
L is thickness, k is conductivity and A is heat-transfer area.
Existing engineering calculator
Heat Transfer Calculator
Calculate steady-state conduction through a plate or pipe wall with an insulation layer.
Calculator inputs and result
Select the material layers, then enter thickness, heat-transfer area and temperature difference.
The typical thermal conductivity is filled from the selected material and can be manually adjusted.
The insulation conductivity can also be manually adjusted when verified project data is available.
Engineering knowledge
Steady-state conduction through material layers
Conduction moves heat from a hotter side to a colder side through a solid. A higher thermal conductivity increases heat flow, while a thicker layer or lower conductivity increases its thermal resistance.
Related calculation knowledge
Use the result as a conduction-only check; convective films and radiation can be important in a complete heat-loss calculation.
Read the heat-transfer guide →Formula and inputs
Combined resistance
Rₜ = R₁ + R₂
Individual layer resistances add in series.
Heat-transfer rate
Q = ΔT / Rₜ
Q is reported as a positive rate for a positive temperature difference.
Assumptions and limitations
- The model uses steady one-dimensional conduction through flat equivalent layers.
- Thermal conductivity is treated as constant at the entered condition.
- Convection, radiation, contact resistance, thermal bridges and cylindrical radial geometry are excluded.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this for an insulated pipe?
It provides a preliminary plane-layer approximation. Detailed insulated-pipe design should use cylindrical radial conduction and suitable inside and outside film coefficients.
Why does more insulation reduce the result?
Increasing insulation thickness raises its thermal resistance and therefore reduces conduction for the same temperature difference and area.
Engineering disclaimer
Educational and preliminary engineering-reference use only.Verify material data, geometry, boundary conditions and applicable standards before design, safety or energy decisions.