Energy exchange in nozzles — heat transfer assumption During steady flow through a steam or gas nozzle, it is commonly assumed that no heat is supplied to or rejected by the fluid (adiabatic flow). Do you agree with this modelling assumption?

Introduction / Context:
Nozzles are designed to convert enthalpy into directed kinetic energy. For tractable analysis and because residence times are short with insulated casings, engineers often assume adiabatic flow (Q ≈ 0). This question checks understanding of that standard assumption.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Steady one-dimensional flow through a nozzle.
• Insulated walls and short flow residence time.
• No shaft work; negligible potential-energy change.

Concept / Approach:
The steady-flow energy equation reduces to h1 + V1^2/2 = h2 + V2^2/2 for adiabatic, no-work nozzles. Thus, the isentropic enthalpy drop approximates the rise in kinetic energy. While small heat losses may occur in practice, the first-order model treats the nozzle as adiabatic to predict velocities and areas accurately enough for design.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Assume Q ≈ 0 and W_s = 0; write SFEE neglecting PE change.Solve for velocity change using Δh ≈ −Δ(KE): V2^2/2 − V1^2/2 ≈ h1 − h2.Use isentropic relations to compute area–Mach numbers for given pressures.

Verification / Alternative check:
Measured nozzle efficiencies close to unity in well-designed stages justify the adiabatic approach; deviations are handled via a nozzle efficiency factor based on exit kinetic energy vs. ideal enthalpy drop.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
“Disagree” would claim that heat transfer is essential to the model; while possible, it is secondary and usually neglected for primary sizing and performance predictions.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing adiabatic with isentropic; adiabatic flow can still have entropy generation due to friction, so nozzle efficiency may be less than 1.

Final Answer:
Agree