Heat Release Rate Calculator
The Raw Energy Release Before Any Losses
Heat release rate is the chemical energy released as fuel burns, before subtracting flue gas losses, radiation, or any other inefficiency. It's the starting point every combustion heat balance builds from.
The Formula
Heat Release Rate = (Fuel Flow(kg/hr) × Heating Value(MJ/kg)) / 3.6
Worked Example
A burner consuming 15 kg/hr of fuel with a heating value of 42 MJ/kg:
Heat Release Rate = (15 × 42) / 3.6 = 175 kW
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter the Fuel Flow Rate in kg/hr.
- Enter the fuel's Heating Value in MJ/kg.
- Select Calculate to get heat release rate in kW.
Related Calculations
Need this after efficiency losses? See the Heat Output Calculator, or check burner capacity in the Burner Capacity Calculator.