Engineering tools · Free to use
Straight Fin Efficiency Calculator
Calculate ideal efficiency of a uniform straight fin with an adiabatic tip.
Input parameters
Inputs and calculations stay in this browser.
Result
Efficiency is the ratio of actual fin heat transfer to that if the entire fin were at base temperature.
Equation
ηf = tanh(mL)/(mL); m = √(hP/(kAc))
Applicability
Uniform straight fin only: one-dimensional steady conduction, constant conductivity and convection coefficient, adiabatic tip, with radiation and contact resistance neglected. P is the perimeter exposed to convection; all inputs must be positive.
Notes
Efficiency is the ratio of actual fin heat transfer to that if the entire fin were at base temperature.
Worked example
For a uniform straight fin with an adiabatic tip, h = 25 W/(m²·K), P = 0.04 m, k = 200 W/(m·K), Ac = 0.0001 m² and L = 0.05 m give mL ≈ 0.35355 and fin efficiency ηf ≈ 0.9603 (dimensionless).
Results are for engineering estimates; verify final designs against operating conditions and applicable standards.