Thermal Conductivity Calculator

Calculate the rate of heat transfer through a material using Fourier's law: Q = k · A · ΔT / d.

Inputs

Fourier's Law of Heat Conduction

Q = k · A · ΔT / d
Q = heat transfer rate (W) k = thermal conductivity W/(m·K) A = area (m²) ΔT = temperature difference (K) d = thickness (m)

Fill in the inputs and click Calculate to see results.

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Summary

Calculate the rate of heat transfer through a material using Fourier's law: Q = k · A · ΔT / d.

How it works

  1. User inputs thermal conductivity k, area A, temperature difference ΔT, and thickness d.
  2. The calculator applies Fourier's law: Q = k · A · ΔT / d.
  3. Heat flux (W/m²) is derived as q = k · ΔT / d.
  4. Thermal resistance R = d / (k · A) is also displayed for reference.
  5. All results update instantly on every input change.

Use cases

  • Estimate heat loss through a wall, window, or insulation panel.
  • Compare insulating performance of different building materials.
  • Size heating or cooling systems based on conductive heat load.
  • Verify thermal resistance (R-value) calculations in construction.
  • Analyze heat dissipation through metal heat sinks in electronics.
  • Solve physics and engineering homework problems on heat conduction.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: 2026-06-11 · Reviewed by Nham Vu