Machines can't always take the heat − two engineers explain the physics behind how heat waves threaten everything from cars to computers
- Written by Srinivas Garimella, Professor of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology
Extreme heat can affect how well machines function, and the fact that many machines give off their own heat doesn't help. AP Photo/Abdeljalil BounharNot only people need to stay cool, especially in a summer of record-breaking heat waves. Many machines, including cellphones, data centers, cars and airplanes, become less efficient and degrade more...