Wärmestromsensors

Wärmestromsensoren, also known as heat flux sensors, are devices used to measure the rate of heat energy transfer through a surface. They work by detecting the temperature difference across a known thermal resistance. When heat flows through the sensor, it creates a temperature gradient, which is then converted into an electrical signal. This signal is proportional to the heat flux. Commonly, these sensors employ thermocouples or thermopiles to detect the temperature difference. The output is typically a voltage that can be calibrated to represent heat flux in units such as watts per square meter (W/m²).

The principle of operation relies on Fourier's Law of Heat Conduction, which states that the heat flux is proportional to the temperature gradient and the thermal conductivity of the material. Wärmestromsensoren are designed to have a precisely known thermal conductivity and geometry, allowing for accurate measurement. They are often integrated into a thin, flat foil or disk.

Applications for Wärmestromsensoren are diverse. They are used in building science to measure heat loss or gain through walls and windows, in renewable energy research to monitor solar collector efficiency, and in industrial processes to control thermal performance. They are also employed in fields like meteorology, automotive engineering, and thermal management of electronics. The accuracy of a Wärmestromsensor depends on proper calibration, installation, and minimizing external influences like radiation.