Psychrometric Chart Specific Volume _best_ Jun 2026
A coil must cool 5000 CFM of air from 90°F DB, 70°F WB to 55°F DB saturated. Find the mass flow rate.
is the inverse of density. It represents the volume occupied by a unit mass of moist air.
) is defined as the volume occupied by a unit mass of a substance. In the context of psychrometrics, it refers to the volume (in cubic feet or cubic meters) occupied by plus any water vapor associated with it. Units: (Imperial) or psychrometric chart specific volume
Fans and blowers move air by volume, measured in . However, heating and cooling calculations (sensible and latent heat) are based on the mass of the air. Formula:
Understanding specific volume is crucial in HVAC design, as it affects: A coil must cool 5000 CFM of air
The is an essential tool for HVAC engineers and meteorologists, mapping the complex relationship between air, moisture, and energy. Among its various lines and scales, specific volume is a critical parameter used to bridge the gap between a volume of air and its actual mass .
To move a given mass flow rate of air (needed for cooling or heating loads), you must know the volumetric flow rate: [ \dotV = \dotm \times v ] Where: It represents the volume occupied by a unit
: On a psychrometric chart, specific volume is expressed per unit mass of dry air , not per unit mass of moist air. This is because the mass of water vapor varies, but the dry air mass remains constant in many processes.