The video at the bottom of this page shows the practical use of delta T. In the case of a cooling tower, we compare the temperature of the warm return line against the colder feed line.
The term Delta T (ΔT) is in science, the difference of temperatures between two measuring points. The temperature differs either in time and/or position. We at Merus use it for example, to measure the efficiency of a heat exchanger. Or for checking the performance of a heating system or a cooling system.
Δ, (Delta) is the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet. Whereas Δ is the symbol of the capital letter and δ is the lower case letter. The Δ is also used as a mathematical symbol. Δ describes the "difference" of any changeable quantity. In a process ΔT is a value to show the difference between two measured temperatures.
If you use ΔT in any kind of formula you have to use the corresponding units. (°Celsius or °Fahrenheit)
To convert use (without +-32!):
ΔT°F = ΔT°C * 9/5
ΔT°C = ΔT°F * 5/9
Online converter
The equation of delta t is: ΔT = T2 - T1
The cooling water entering the heat exchanger will get warmer on its way through the exchanger. The difference is then the ΔT. If T1 and T2 is monitored regularly, one can see the perfomance of the cooling at the delta T. Monitoring this temperature over a longer time, will give indication about the grade of fouling in the heat exchanger. Having all 4 temperatures and 1 flow rate of a heat exchanger, one is able to calculate the Heat Transfer Coefficient.
In a heating or a cooling system for a building the delta T is used to compare the cool water send into the house and the warmer water, which comes back. So one can see if and how much the Air Condition is used.