Log Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD) is best suited when the temperature difference is known. The Effectiveness-NTU is best used when the surface area is known.
Assumptions for HEX analysis Steady-state, steady flow No heat generation in the HEX Negligible ΔPE, ΔKE Adiabatic processes No phase change Constant specific heats and other physical properties.
Under these assumptions, the first law of thermodynamics requires that the rate of heat transfer from the hot fluid equals the rate of heat transfer to the cold fluid.
Notes
Example