Calorific Value of Fuel: The Key to Efficient Energy Use

Calorific value measures the energy released when 1 kg or 1 m³ of fuel is burned completely.

For example : CV of petrol : 45000 kJ/kg

"Higher calorific value = More energy output."

Types of CV : HCV and LCV

HCV = LCV + Latent Heat of Water

HCV = Higher Calorific Value LCV  = Lower Calorific Value

HCV :  Amount of heat released when fuel is completely burnt and combustion products are cooled at room temperature.

When combustion products contains water vapors, its latent heat liberated as extra heat.

LCV :  Amount of heat released when fuel is completely burnt and combustion products are NOT cooled at room temperature 

So,  LCV = HCV - Latent heat of vaporization of water

High CV Fuels:  Petrol, diesel, LPG, natural gas (ideal for transportation and heating). 

Natural gas has the highest calorific value (~55,000 kJ/kg). 

Low CV Fuels:  Wood, coal, biogas (used for cooking and rural energy).

CV measurement:  Bomb Calorimeter is used to measure the CV of solid and liquid fuels.

HCV = m × ΔT × C Where m = mass, ΔT = temperature change, C = specific heat.

Power Plants:  Selecting high CV fuels for better efficiency. Transport:  Optimizing fuel for higher mileage. Households:  LPG and PNG for cooking and heating.

High CV fuels = More energy but higher emissions. Low CV fuels = Less efficient, may cause air pollution. Solution?  Focus on renewable biofuels and energy-efficient systems.