6

RADIATION HEAT TRANSFER

Course Contents
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Heat exchange between two
black surfaces: Shape Factor
6.3 Shape factor algebra and
salient features of the shape
factor
6.4 Shape factor relations
6.5 Electrical network approach
for radiation heat exchange
6.6 Radiation heat exchange
between non-black bodies
6.7 Radiation shields
6.8 Radiation Heat Transfer in
Three Surface Enclosure
6.9 Solved Numerical
6.10 References

Department of Mechanical Engineering Prepared By: Mehul K. Pujara

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

6.1 Introduction
 Till now we have discussed fundamental aspects of various definitions and laws. Now
we will study the heat exchange between two or more surfaces which is of practical
importance.
 The two surfaces which are not in direct contact, exchanges the heat due to
radiation phenomena. The factors those determine the rate of heat exchange
between two bodies are the temperature of the individual surfaces, their
emissivities, as well as how well one surface can see the other surface. The last
factor is known as view factor, shape factor, angle factor or configuration factor.

6.2 Heat Exchange Between Two Black Surfaces: Shape Factor

 Consider heat exchange between elementary areas dA1 and dA2 of two black
radiating bodies having areas A1 and A2 respectively.
 The elementary areas are at a distance r apart and the normals to the areas make
angles θ1 and θ2 with the line joining them. The surface dA1 is at temperature T1 and
the surface dA2 is at temperatureT2 .

Fig. 6.1 Radiant heat exchange between two black surfaces

 If the surface dA2 subtends a solid angle dω1 at the centre of the surface dA1 , then
radiant energy emitted by dA1 and impinging on (and absorbed by) the surface dA2
is:
𝑑𝑄12 = 𝐼𝜃1 𝑑𝜔1 𝑑𝐴1 = 𝐼𝑛1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑑𝜔1 𝑑𝐴1
Where,
Iθ1 = Intensity of radiation at an angle θ1 with normal to the surface dA1 and is given
by In1 cos θ1
In1 = Intensity of radiation normal to the surface dA1
Projected area of dA2 normal to the line joining dA1 and dA2 = dA2 cos θ2
𝑑𝐴2 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2
𝑠𝑜𝑙𝑖𝑑 𝑎𝑛𝑔𝑙𝑒 𝑑𝜔1 =
𝑟2

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

𝑑𝐴2 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2 𝑑𝐴1 𝑑𝐴2

∴ 𝑑𝑄12 = 𝐼𝑛1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 2
𝑑𝐴1 = 𝐼𝑛1
𝑟 𝑟2
But
𝜎1 𝑇14
𝐼𝑛1 =
𝜋
𝜎1 𝑇14 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2 𝑑𝐴1 𝑑𝐴2
∴ 𝑑𝑄12 = − − − − − − − (6.1)
𝜋 𝑟2
 Integration of equation 6.1 over finite areas A1 and A2 gives:
𝜎1 𝑇14 𝑑𝐴1 𝑑𝐴2
𝑄12 = ∫ ∫ 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2 − − − − − − − (6.2)
𝜋 𝑟2
𝐴1 𝐴2

 The solution of this equation is simplified by introducing a term called radiation

shape factor, geometrical factor, configuration factor or view factor. The shape
factor depends only on the specific geometry of the emitter and collection surfaces,
and is defined as:
 “The fraction of the radiative energy that is diffused from one surface element and
strikes the other surface directly with no intervening relections.”
 The radiation shape factor is represented by the symbol Fij which means the shape
factor from a surface Ai to another surface Aj . Thus the radiation shape factor F12 of
surface A1 to surface A2 is
𝑑𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑒 1 𝑖𝑛𝑐𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝑢𝑝𝑜𝑛 𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑒 2
𝐹12 =
𝑡𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑓𝑟𝑜𝑚 𝑒𝑚𝑖𝑡𝑡𝑖𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑢𝑟𝑓𝑎𝑐𝑒 1
𝑄12 1 𝜎1 𝑇14 𝑑𝐴1 𝑑𝐴2
= 4 = 4 𝜋 ∫ ∫ 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2
𝜎1 𝐴1 𝑇1 𝜎1 𝐴1 𝑇1 𝑟2
𝐴1 𝐴2

1 𝑑𝐴1 𝑑𝐴2
∫ ∫ 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃1 𝑐𝑜𝑠 𝜃2 − − − − − − − (6.3)
𝐴1 𝜋 𝑟2
𝐴1 𝐴2

 From the equation no. 6.2 and 6.3, the radiation leaving A1 and striking A2 is given by
𝑄12 = 𝐴1 𝐹12 𝜎1 𝑇14 − − − − − − − (6.4)
 Similarly the energy leaving A2 and striking A1 is
𝑄21 = 𝐴2 𝐹21 𝜎2 𝑇24 − − − − − − − (6.5)
 and the net energy exchange from A1 to A2 is :
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐴1 𝐹12 𝜎1 𝑇14 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 𝜎2 𝑇24
 When the surfaces are maintained at the same temperatures, T1 and T2 , there can
be no heat exchange,
0 = (𝐴1 𝐹12 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 )𝜎𝑏 𝑇14 {𝑏𝑒𝑐𝑎𝑢𝑠𝑒 𝜎1 = 𝜎2 = 𝜎𝑏 }

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

 Since σb and T1 are non-zero quantities,

𝐴1 𝐹12 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 = 0 𝑜𝑟 𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴2 𝐹21 − − − − − − − (6.6)
 The above result is known as a reciprocity theorem. It indicates that the net radiant
interchange may be evaluated by computing one way configuration factor from
either surface to the other. Thus net heat exchange between surfaces A1 and A2 is
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐴1 𝐹12 𝜎𝑏 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 ) = 𝐴2 𝐹21 𝜎𝑏 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 ) − − − − − − − (6.7)

 Equation 6.7 applies only to black surfaces and must not be used for surfaces
having emissivities very different from unity.

6.3 Shape factor algebra and salient features of the shape factor
 The salient features for complex geometries can be derived in terms of known shape
factors for other geometries. For that the complex shape is divided into sections for
which the shape factors is either known or can be readily evaluated.
 The known configuration factor is worked out by adding and subtracting known
factors of related geometries. The method is based on the definition of shape factor,
the reciprocity principal and the energy conservation law.
 The inter-relation between various shape factors is called factor algebra.
 Salient features of shape factor:
 The value of shape factor depends only on the geometry and orientation of surfaces
with respect to each other. Once the shape factor between two surfaces is known, it
can be used for calculating the radiant heat exchange between the surfaces at any
temperature.
 The net heat exchange between surfaces A1 A2 is
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝐴1 𝐹12 𝜎1 𝑇14 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 𝜎2 𝑇24 − − − − − − − (6.8)
 When the surfaces are thought to be black (σ1 = σ2 = σb ) and are maintained at the
same temperature (T1 = T2 = T), there is no heat exchange and as such
0 = (𝐴1 𝐹12 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 )𝜎𝑏 𝑇14
Since σb and T1 are non-zero quantities,
𝐴1 𝐹12 − 𝐴2 𝐹21 = 0 𝑜𝑟 𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴2 𝐹21 − − − − − − − (6.9)
 This reciprocal relation is particular useful when one on the shape factor is unity.
 All the radiation streaming out from an inner sphere (surface 1) is intercepted by the
enclosing outer sphere (surface 2). As such the shape factor of inner sphere (surface
1) with respect to the enclosure F12 is unity and the shape factor of outer sphere
(surface 2) can be obtained by using reciprocal relation.
𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴2 𝐹21 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝐹12 = 0

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

𝐴1
∴ 𝐹21 = − − − − − − − (6.10)
𝐴2

Fig. 6.2 Two concentric spheres

 The radiant energy emitted by one part of concave surface is intercepted by another
part of the same surface. Accordingly a concave surface has a shape factor with
respect to itself. The shape factor with respect to itself is denoted by F11 .

(a) Flat surface (b) Convex surface (c) Concave surface

Fig. 6.3 Shape factor of surface with respect to itself
 For a flat or convex surface, the shape factor with respect to itself is zero.

6.4 Shape Factor Relations

6.4.1 The Reciprocity Relation
 The view factor 𝐹12 and 𝐹21 are not equal to each other unless the area of the two
surfaces are. That is,
𝐹12 = 𝐹21 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛𝐴1 = 𝐴2 − − − − − − − −(6.11)
𝐹12 ≠ 𝐹21 𝑤ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝐴1 ≠ 𝐴2 − − − − − − − (6.12)
 We have already discussed that the view factors are related to each other is given by
𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴2 𝐹21 − − − − − − − (6.13)
 This relation is know as reciprocity relation or the reciprocity rule.

6.4.2 Summation Rule

 Any radiating surface will have finite area and therefore will be enclosed by many
surfaces.
 For radiation heat transfer analysis, radiating surface is considered as a part of the
enclosure.

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

 Even openings are treated as imaginary surfaces with radiation properties equivalent
to those of the opening.
 The conservation of energy principle requires that the entire radiation leaving any
surface i of an enclosure be intercepted by the surfaces of the enclosure.
 Therefore, the sum of the view factors from surface i of an enclosure to all surfaces
of the enclosure, including to itself, must equal unity. This is known as the
summation rule for an enclosure and is expressed as (Figure 6.4)

Fig. 6.4 Radiaton leaving the surface i of an enclosure intercepted by completely by

the surface of enclosure
N

∑ Fi−j = F1−1 + F1−2 + F1−3 … . . +F1−n = 1 − − − − − − − (6.14)

j=1
 Where, N is the number of surfaces of the enclosure.

 Applying the summation rule to surface 1 of a three-surface enclosure,

3

∑ 𝐹1−𝑗 = 𝐹1−1 + 𝐹1−2 + 𝐹1−3 = 1

𝑗=1

6.4.3 The Superposition Rule

 If one of the two surfaces (say Ai ) is divided into sub areas Ai1 , Ai2 , ….. Ain , then
𝐴𝑖 𝐹𝑖𝑗 = ∑ 𝐴𝑖𝑛 𝐹𝑖𝑛𝑗 − − − − − − − (6.15)
 With respect to figure 6.5, when the radiating surface A1 has been split up into areas
A3 and A4 ,
𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴3 𝐹32 + 𝐴4 𝐹42 − − − − − − − (6.16)
 Obviously F12 ≠ F32 + F42
 If the receiving surface A2 is divide into subareas A3 and A4 ,
𝐴1 𝐹12 = 𝐴1 𝐹13 + 𝐴1 𝐹14
∴ 𝐹12 = 𝐹13 + 𝐹14 − − − − − − − (6.17)

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

Fig. 6.5 Superposition rule

 Thus if the transmitting surface is sub divided, the shape factor for that surface
with respect to the receiving surface is not equal to the sum of the individual shape
factors.
 Apparently the shape factor from a radiating surface to a subdivided receiving
surface is simply the sum of the individual shape factors.

6.4.4 The Symmetry Rule

 Identical surfaces that are oriented in an identical manner with respect to another
surface will intercept identical amounts of radiation leaving that surface.

Fig. 6.6 Symmetry rule

 So, the symmetry rule can be expressed as two or more surfaces that posse
symmetry about a third surface will have identical view factors from that surface.
From the figure 6.6
𝐹12 = 𝐹13

6.5 Electrical Network Approach For Radiation Heat Exchange

 Solution of the radiation heat transfer problem can be obtained by reducing the
actual system to an equivalent electrical network and then solving that network. To
understand the concept, first some terminology should be defined.
 Radiosity(𝐉) : It indicates the total radiant energy leaving a surface per unit time per
unit surface area. It is the sum of the radiation emitted from the surface and the
reflected portion of any radiation incident upon it.
 Irradiation (𝐆): it indicates the total radiant energy incident upon a surface per unit
time per unit area; some of it may be reflected to become a part of the radiosity of
the surface.

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

Fig. 6.7 Surface radiosity and irradation

 According to the definition of the radiosity, total energy leaving the surface is given
by
𝐽 = 𝐸 + 𝜌𝐺 = 𝜀𝐸𝑏 + 𝜌𝐺 − − − − − − − (6.18)
 Where Eb is the emissive power of a perfect black body at the same temperature. As
no energy is transmitted through the opaque body, α + ρ = 1 and so
𝐽 = 𝜀𝐸𝑏 + (1 − 𝛼)𝐺 − − − − − − − (6.19)
 According to Kirchoff’s law, the absorptivity α of the surface is equal to emissivity ε.
Therefore,
𝐽 = 𝜀𝐸𝑏 + (1 − 𝜀)𝐺
𝐽 − 𝜀𝐸𝑏
∴𝐺= − − − − − − − (6.20)
1−𝜀
 The rate at which the radiation leaves the surface is given by the difference between
its radiosity and irradiation.
𝑄𝑛𝑒𝑡 𝐽 − 𝜀𝐸𝑏 𝐽 − 𝐽𝜀 − 𝐽 + 𝜀𝐸𝑏 𝜀(𝐸𝑏 − 𝐽)
=𝐽− = =
𝐴 1−𝜀 1−𝜀 1−𝜀
𝐴𝜀 𝐸𝑏 − 𝐽
𝑄𝑛𝑒𝑡 = (𝐸 − 𝐽) = − − − − − − − (6.21)
1−𝜀 𝑏 (1 − 𝜀)⁄𝐴𝜀
 This equation can be represented in the form of an electrical network as shown in
figure 6.8. The factor (1 − ε)⁄Aε is related to the surface properties of the radiating
body and is called the surface resistance to radiation heat transfer.

Fig. 6.8 Electrical analogy of surface resistance to radiation

 Equation 6.21 can be written in the form of electrical network as
𝐸𝑏 − 𝐽 𝐸𝑏 − 𝐽
𝑄𝑛𝑒𝑡 = = − − − − − − − (6.22)
(1 − 𝜀)⁄𝐴𝜀 𝑅𝑖

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

 Where, R i is the surface resistance and given by

1−𝜀
𝑅𝑖 = − − − − − − − (6.23)
𝐴𝜀

 For black body ε = 1, so surface resistance of the black body is equal to zero.
 So, from equation 6.22 radiosity is equal to emissive power of the black body

 Now consider the radiant heat exchange between two non-black surfaces. Out of
total radiation J1 leaving the surface 1, only a fraction J1 A1 F12 is received by the
other surface 2. Similarly the heat radiated by surface 2 and received by surface 1 is
J2 A2 F21 . So net heat transfer between two surfaces is given by
𝑄12 = 𝐽1 𝐴1 𝐹12 − 𝐽2 𝐴2 𝐹21 − − − − − − − (6.24)
 From the recirpicity theorem : A1 F12 = A2 F21
(𝐽1 − 𝐽2 )
∴ 𝑄12 = (𝐽1 − 𝐽2 )𝐴1 𝐹12 = − − − − − − − (6.25)
1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12
 Equation 6.25 can be represented by an electrical circuit as shown in figure 6.9. The
factor 1⁄A1 F12 is related to distance between two bodies and its geometry, and is
called space resistance to radiation heat transfer.

Fig. 6.9 Electrical analogy of space resistance to radiation

 Equation 6.9 can be written in the form of electrical network as
(𝐽1 − 𝐽2 ) (𝐽1 − 𝐽2 )
𝑄12 = = − − − − − − − (6.26)
1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 𝑅12
 Where, R12 is the space resistance and given by
1
𝑅12 = − − − − − − − (6.27)
𝐴1 𝐹12
 Radiation heat transfer can be represented by electrical network, consisting of two
surface resistances of two radiating bodies and the space resistance between them
as shown in figure 6.10.

Fig. 6.10 Electrical analogy of radiation heat transfer between two surfaces

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

 The net heat exchange between two gray surfaces is given by

𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.28)
𝑅1 + 𝑅12 + 𝑅2
 Where R1 and R 2 are surface resistances and R12 is space resistance, equation 6.28
can be written as,
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 =
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
𝐴1 𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝜀2 ∙ 𝐴1 ⁄𝐴2
= (𝐹𝑔 ) 𝜎𝐴1 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 ) − − − − − − − (6.29)
12
 Where, (Fg ) is called gray body factor and is given by
12

1
(𝐹𝑔 ) = − − − − − − − (6.30)
12 (1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝜀2 ∙ 𝐴1 ⁄𝐴2

 When the heat exchange is between two black surfaces, the surface resistance
becomes zero as ε1 = ε2 = 1. The gray body factor (Fg ) becomes equal to space
12
factor F12 in the equation 6.29.

6.6 Radiation Heat Exchange Between Non-Black Bodies

6.6.1 Small Object in a Large Cavity

Fig. 6.11 Small object in a large cavity (enclosure)

 All the radiations emitted by object 1 reach and are absorbed by object 2, and area
of object 1 is very small compare to area of object 2. So,
𝐴1
𝐹12 = 1; 𝐴1 ≪ 𝐴2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ∴ →0
𝐴2
 Substitute the above value in equation 6.29
1
∴ (𝐹𝑔 ) = = 𝜀1 − − − − − − − (6.31)
12 (1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 + 𝐴1
∴ (𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = 𝜀1 𝜎𝐴1 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 ) − − − − − − − (6.32)

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

6.6.2 Infinite Large Parallel Plates

 All the radiations emitted by plane one reach and are absorbed by other plane, and
areas of the two planes are infinite. So,
𝐹12 = 𝐹21 = 1 and 𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴

Fig. 6.12 Infinite large parallel plates

 Substitute the above value in equation 6.29
1
(𝐹𝑔 ) = − − − − − − − (6.33)
12 1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ (𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.34)
1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1

6.6.3 Infinite Long Concentric Cylinders or Sphere

(a) Concentric cylinder (b) Concentric sphere

Fig. 6.13 Infinite long concentric cylinder and sphere
 The inner cylinder or sphere of area A1 sees only the outer surface and not itself. So,
𝐹12 = 1
 Substitute the above value in equation 6.29
1
(𝐹𝑔 ) = − − − − − − − (6.35)
12 (1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 + 1 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝜀2 ∙ 𝐴1 ⁄𝐴2
𝜎𝐴1 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ (𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.36)
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 + 1 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝜀2 ∙ 𝐴1 ⁄𝐴2
𝐴1 𝑟1
𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐 𝑐𝑦𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑑𝑒𝑟 =
𝐴2 𝑟2
𝐴1 𝑟12
𝐹𝑜𝑟 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑐𝑒𝑛𝑡𝑟𝑖𝑐 𝑠𝑝ℎ𝑒𝑟𝑒 =
𝐴2 𝑟22

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

6.7 Radiation Shields

 Radiation heat transfer between two surfaces can be reduced greatly by inserting a
thin, highly reflectivity (low-emissivity) sheet of material between the two surfaces.
Such highly reflective thin plates or shells are called radiation shields.
 Consider two infinite parallel plates as shown in figure 6.14. Radiation network for
the radiation heat transfer consists of two surface resistances and one space
resistance as shown in figure 6.14.

Fig. 6.14 Heat exchange between two infinite parallel planes without radiation shields
 With no radiation shields, the net heat exchange between the infinite parallel plates
is given by
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
(Q12 )net =
𝑅1 + 𝑅12 + 𝑅2

𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
 For parallel plates configuration,
𝐹12 = 𝐹21 = 1 and 𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ (𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.37)
1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1
 When ε1 = ε2 = ε, the above equation becomes
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.38)
2⁄𝜀 − 1
 Now consider a radiation shield placed between these two plates as shown in figure
6.15.
 The radiation network of this geometry is constructed by drawing a surface
resistance associated with each surface and connecting these surface resistances
with space resistances, as shown in figure 6.15.

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Page 6.12 Darshan Institute of Engineering & Technology, Rajkot
Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

Fig. 6.15 Radiation heat exchange between two infinite parallel plates with radiation
shield
 The resistances are connected in series, and thus the rate of radiation heat transfer
is given as
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅13 + 𝑅3,1 + 𝑅3,2 + 𝑅32 + 𝑅2
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹13 + (1 − 𝜀3,1 )⁄𝐴3 𝜀3,1 + (1 − 𝜀3,2 )⁄𝐴3 𝜀3,2 + 1⁄𝐴3 𝐹32 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2

 For parallel plates configuration,

𝐹13 = 𝐹32 = 1 and𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴3 = 𝐴
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ (𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.39)
(1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1) + (1⁄𝜀3,1 + 1⁄𝜀3,2 − 1)
 When ε1 = ε2 = ε3,1 = ε3,2 = ε, the above equation becomes
1 𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.40)
2 2⁄𝜀 − 1
 Comparison of expressions 6.38 and 6.40 shows that ratio of heat flow with a
radiation shield becomes just half of what it would have been without the radiation
shield.
 If n-radiation shields are inserted between the two planes, then
I. There will be two surface resistances for each radiation shield, and one for each
radiating surface. When emissivity of all the surfaces are equal, then all the (2n + 2)
surface resistances will have same value (1 − ε)⁄ε.
II. There would be (n + 1) space resistance and configuration factor for each will be
unity.
 So, the total resistance for n number of radiation shield is given by
(1 − 𝜀)
𝑅(𝑛 − 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑) = (2𝑛 + 2) + (𝑛 + 1) ∙ 1
𝜀
2
= (𝑛 + 1) ( − 1)
𝜀

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

 And therefore the heat exchange with n-shields is given by

1 𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
(𝑄12 )𝑛𝑒𝑡 = − − − − − − − (6.41)
(𝑛 + 1) 2⁄𝜀 − 1
 A comparison expressions 6.38 and 6.41 does indicate that the presence of n-shields
reduces the radiant heat transfer by a factor of (n + 1).
 Under steady state conditions, the shield attain a uniform temperature of T3 .
Temperature of radiation shield can be obtained by comparing the heat transfer
between surface 1 and shield with heat transfer between surface 1 and surface 2.

6.8 Radiation Heat Transfer in Three-Surface Enclosure:

 Consider an enclosure consisting of three opaque, diffuse, and gray surfaces as
shown in figure 6.16.

 The radiation network of this geometry is obtained by drawing a surface resistance

associated with each of the three surfaces and connect these surface resistances
with space resistances as shown in figure 6.16.
 The three equations for the determination of the radiosity 𝐽1 , 𝐽2 and 𝐽3 are obtained
from the requirement that the algebraic sum of the currents at each node must
equal zero. Hence,
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝑗1 𝑗2 − 𝑗1 𝑗3 − 𝑗1
+ + =0
𝑅1 𝑅12 𝑅13
𝑗1 − 𝑗2 𝐸𝑏2 − 𝑗2 𝑗3 − 𝑗2
+ + = 0 − − − − − − − (6.42)
𝑅12 𝑅2 𝑅23
𝑗1 − 𝑗3 𝑗2 − 𝑗3 𝐸𝑏3 − 𝑗3
+ + =0
{ 𝑅13 𝑅23 𝑅3 }
 Once the radiosities are available, the net rate of radiation heat transfers at each
surface can be determined from the following equation:
𝑁 𝑁 𝑁
𝐽𝑖 − 𝐽𝑗
𝑄𝑖 = ∑ 𝑄𝑖→𝑗 = ∑ 𝐴𝑖 𝐹𝑖→𝑗 (𝐽𝑖 − 𝐽𝑗 ) = ∑ − − − − − − − (6.43)
𝑅𝑖→𝑗
𝑗=1 𝑗=1 𝑗=1

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

 Above equation is used to find the net radiation heat transfer from surface i which is
enclosed by N no. of surfaces.
 Set of equations can be obtained from the equation 6.42 for the different
configuration.
 Net rate of heat transfer from the reradiating surface is equal to zero.

6.9 Solved Numerical

Ex. 6.1.
Determine the view factors from the base of the pyramid shown in figure 1 to each
of its four side surfaces. The base of the pyramid is a square, and its side surfaces are
isosceles triangles.

Figure 1 Square pyramid

Solution:
According to reciprocity principal
𝐹1−2 = 𝐹1−3 = 𝐹1−4 = 𝐹1−5
And
𝐹1−2 + 𝐹1−3 + 𝐹1−4 + 𝐹1−5 = 1
So, from above equations
𝐹1−2 = 𝐹1−3 = 𝐹1−4 = 𝐹1−5 = 0.25

Ex. 6.2.
Consider a cylindrical furnace with radius = 1m and height = 1m as shown in figure
3. Take σ = 5.67 X 10-8 W/m2K4

Figure 3 Cylindrical furnace

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

Determine the net rate of radiation heat transfer at each surface during the steady
operation and explain how these surfaces can be maintained at specified
temperatures.
Solution:
Given data:
𝑇1 = 700𝐾, 𝑇2 = 500𝐾 𝑇3 = 400𝐾
𝜀1 = 0.8, 𝜀2 = 0.4, 𝜀3 = 1
𝐹12 = 0.38, 𝑟 = 1𝑚, ℎ = 1 𝑚
𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝜋 × 𝑟 2 = 𝜋 × 12 = 3.14 𝑚2
𝐴3 = 2𝜋𝑟ℎ = 2 × 𝜋 × 1 × 1 = 6.28 𝑚2
Determine: 𝑄1, 𝑄2 and 𝑄3
The view factor from the base to side surface is determined by applying the
summation rule.
𝐹11 + 𝐹12 + 𝐹13 = 1
∴ 𝐹13 = 1 − 𝐹11 − 𝐹12 = 1 − 0 − 0.38 = 0.62
Since base surface is flat so, 𝐹11 = 0.
∴ 𝐹13 = 1 − 𝐹11 − 𝐹12 = 1 − 0 − 0.38 = 0.62
Top and bottom surfaces are symmetric about the side surface so, 𝐹21 = 𝐹12 = 0.38
and 𝐹23 = 𝐹13 = 0.62. The view factor 𝐹31 is determine from the reciprocity relation,
𝐴1 𝐹13 = 𝐴3 𝐹31
𝐴1 0.314
𝐹31 = 𝐹13 ( ) = 0.62 ( ) = 0.31
𝐴3 0.628

Figure 4 radiation network associated with three surface enclosure

 Radiosities at each surface can be determined from the following equations (Figure
4)

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

𝐸𝑏1 − 𝑗1 𝑗2 − 𝑗1 𝑗3 − 𝑗1
+ + =0
𝑅1 𝑅12 𝑅13
𝑗1 − 𝑗2 𝐸𝑏2 − 𝑗2 𝑗3 − 𝑗2
+ + =0
𝑅12 𝑅2 𝑅23
𝑗1 − 𝑗3 𝑗2 − 𝑗3 𝐸𝑏3 − 𝑗3
+ + =0
𝑅13 𝑅23 𝑅3
Substitute the value in above equations
𝜎𝑇14 − 𝑗1 𝑗2 − 𝑗1 𝑗3 − 𝑗1
+ + =0
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝜀1 1⁄𝐹12 1⁄𝐹13
𝑗1 − 𝑗2 𝜎𝑇24 − 𝑗2 𝑗3 − 𝑗2
+ + =0
1⁄𝐹12 (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝜀2 1⁄𝐹23
As the surface 3 is a black body so,
𝜎𝑇34 = 𝑗3
5.67 × 10−8 × 7004 − 𝑗1 𝑗2 − 𝑗1 𝑗3 − 𝑗1
+ + =0
(1 − 0.8)⁄0.8 1⁄0.38 1⁄0.62
𝑗1 − 𝑗2 5.67 × 10−8 × 5004 − 𝑗2 𝑗3 − 𝑗2
+ + =0
1⁄0.38 (1 − 0.4)⁄0.4 1⁄0.62
5.67 × 10−8 × 4004 = 𝑗3
Solving these equations for 𝑗1 , 𝑗2 and 𝑗3 gives
𝑗1 = 11,418 𝑊⁄𝑚2 , 𝑗2 = 4562 𝑊⁄𝑚2 , 𝑗3 = 1452 𝑊⁄𝑚2
Then the net rates of radiation heat transfer at the three surfaces are determined
from following equations
𝑗1 − 𝑗2 𝑗1 − 𝑗3
𝑄1 = 𝐴1 [ + ]
1⁄𝐹12 1⁄𝐹13
11,418 − 4562 11,418 − 1452
𝑄1 = 3.14 [ + ]
1⁄0.38 1⁄0.62
𝑄1 = 27.6 𝑘𝑊
𝑗2 − 𝑗1 𝑗2 − 𝑗3
𝑄2 = 𝐴2 [ + ]
1⁄𝐹21 1⁄𝐹23
4562 − 11,418 4562 − 1452
𝑄2 = 3.14 [ + ]
1⁄0.38 1⁄0.62
𝑄2 = −2.13 𝑘𝑊
𝑗3 − 𝑗1 𝑗3 − 𝑗2
𝑄3 = 𝐴3 [ + ]
1⁄𝐹31 1⁄𝐹32
1452 − 11,418 1452 − 4562
𝑄3 = 6.28 [ + ]
1⁄0.31 1⁄0.31
𝑄3 = −25.5 𝑘𝑊
𝑄1 + 𝑄2 + 𝑄3 = 27.6 − 2.13 − 25.5 = 0
To maintain the surfaces at the specified temperatures, we must supply heat to the
top surface continuously at a rate of 27.6 kW while removing 2.13 kW from the base
and 25.5 kW from the side surfaces.

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

Ex. 6.3.
The flat floor of a hemispherical furnace is at 800 K and has emissivity of 0.5. The
corresponding values for the hemispherical roof are 1200 K and 0.25. Determine the
net heat transfer from roof to floor. Take 𝜎𝑏 = 5.67 ∗ 10−8 .
Solution:
Given data:
𝑇1 = 800𝐾, 𝑇2 = 1200𝐾, 𝜀1 = 0.5, 𝜀2 = 0.25, Take 𝐴1 = 1𝑚2

Figure 6 Schematic and network diagram of hemispherical furnace

𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
𝑄12 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅12 + 𝑅2
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
All the radiations from the floor reach the floor and hence 𝐹12 = 1
𝜎𝐴1 (𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
𝑄12 =
1⁄𝜀1 + (1⁄𝜀2 − 1) 𝐴1 ⁄𝐴2
For the given configuration
𝐴1 = 𝜋𝑟 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝐴2 = 1⁄2 (4𝜋𝑟 2 ) = 2𝜋𝑟 2
𝐴1 𝜋𝑟 2
= = 0.5
𝐴2 2𝜋𝑟 2
5.67 × 10−8 × 1 × (8004 − 12004 )
𝑄1 = = −26984 𝑊⁄𝑚2
1⁄0.5 + (1⁄0.25 − 1) × 0.5
The negative sign indicates that heat flow is from roof to floor.
Ex. 6.4.
Determine net radiation heat transfer per m2 for two infinite parallel plates held at
temperature of 800 K and 500 K respectively. Emissivities of hot and cold plates are
0.6 and 0.4 respectively. Now it is intended to reduce the heat transfer to 40% of
original value by placing a radiation shied between the plates. Calculate the
emissivity of the shield and its equilibrium temperature.
Solution:
Given Data:
𝑇1 = 800𝐾, 𝑇2 = 500𝐾

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

𝜀1 = 0.6, 𝜀2 = 0.4, 𝜀3,1 = 𝜀3,2 = 𝜀3 = ?

𝑄1 = 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑓𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑
𝑄2 = 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑓𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 = 0.4 𝑄1

Figure 7 Two parallel plates and network diagram

 With no radiation shields, the net heat exchange between the infinite parallel plates
is given by
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
𝑄1 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅12 + 𝑅2
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹12 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
 For parallel plates configuration,
𝐹12 = 𝐹21 = 1 and 𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴 = 1
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ 𝑄1 =
1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1
5.67 × 10−8 × 1 × (8004 − 5004 )
𝑄1 =
1⁄0.6 + 1⁄0.4 − 1
∴ 𝑄1 = 6214.91 𝑤⁄𝑚2
𝑄2 = 𝐻𝑒𝑎𝑡 𝑡𝑟𝑎𝑛𝑠𝑓𝑒𝑟 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ 𝑟𝑎𝑑𝑖𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝑠ℎ𝑖𝑒𝑙𝑑 = 0.4 𝑄1
∴ 𝑄2 = 2485.97 𝑤⁄𝑚2

Figure 8 Radiation shield placed between two parallel plates and network diagram

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6. Radiation Heat Transfer Heat Transfer (3151909)

 With radiation shields, the net heat exchange between the infinite parallel plates is
given by
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏2
𝑄2 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅13 + 𝑅3,1 + 𝑅3,2 + 𝑅32 + 𝑅2
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹13 + (1 − 𝜀3,1 )⁄𝐴3 𝜀3,1 + (1 − 𝜀3,2 )⁄𝐴3 𝜀3,2 + 1⁄𝐴3 𝐹32 + (1 − 𝜀2 )⁄𝐴2 𝜀2
 For parallel plates configuration,
𝐹13 = 𝐹32 = 1 and𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴3 = 𝐴 = 1
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇24 )
∴ 𝑄2 =
(1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀2 − 1) + (2⁄𝜀3 − 1)
5.67 × 10−8 × 1 × (8004 − 5004 )
∴ 2485.97 =
(1⁄0.6 + 1⁄0.4 − 1) + (2⁄𝜀3 − 1)
5.67 × 10−8 × 1 × (8004 − 5004 )
∴ (1⁄0.6 + 1⁄0.4 − 1) + (2⁄𝜀3 − 1) =
2485.97
∴ 3.17 + (2⁄𝜀3 − 1) = 7.91
∴ 2⁄𝜀3 = 7.91 − 2.17
∴ 2⁄5.74 = 𝜀3
∴ 𝜀3 = 0.347
So, emissivity of the radiation shield is 0.347.
Temperature of radiation shield:-
Heat transfer from plate 1 to plate 2 is equal to the heat transfer from plate 1 to
radiation shield 3.
𝐸𝑏1 − 𝐸𝑏3
𝑄2 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅13 + 𝑅3,1
𝜎(𝑇14 − 𝑇34 )
=
(1 − 𝜀1 )⁄𝐴1 𝜀1 + 1⁄𝐴1 𝐹13 + (1 − 𝜀3,1 )⁄𝐴3 𝜀3,1
 For parallel plates configuration,
𝐹13 = 𝐹32 = 1 and𝐴1 = 𝐴2 = 𝐴3 = 𝐴 = 1
𝜎𝐴(𝑇14 − 𝑇34 )
∴ 𝑄2 =
(1⁄𝜀1 + 1⁄𝜀3 − 1)
5.67 × 10−8 × 1 × (8004 − 𝑇34 )
∴ 2485.97 =
(1⁄0.6 + 1⁄0.347 − 1)
(1⁄0.6 + 1⁄0.347 − 1) × 2485.97
∴ (8004 − 𝑇34 ) =
5.67 × 10−8
∴ (8004 − 𝑇34 ) = 1.55 × 1011
∴ 𝑇34 = 8004 − 1.55 × 1011 = 2.546 × 1011
1⁄
𝑇3 = (2.546 × 1011 ) 4 = 709.97 𝐾

6.10 References:
[1] Heat and Mass Transfer by D. S. Kumar, S K Kataria and Sons Publications.

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Heat Transfer (3151909) 6. Radiation Heat Transfer

[2] Heat Transfer – A Practical Approach by Yunus Cengel & Boles, McGraw-Hill
Publication.
[3] Principles of Heat Transfer by Frank Kreith, Cengage Learining.

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