This data set was run on the lab equipment pictured in the lab overview (DOCX). Download lab overview (DOCX).Your task is to post-process this data to determine the time constant (τ). Ressler (Ressler et al. 2003) indicates that τ provides a measure of a system's rate of response to input. The time constant represents the time required by the experimental system to reach 63.2% of the steady-state value relative to its initial value. The time constant to steady state is given by: 

T(t) =T_ss + (T_o-T_ss)e ^-t/τ 

Where T(t) = temperature at time t 

T_ss = temperature at steady state 

T_o = temperature at time initial 

τ = time constant

Determining the steady-state region of a test is necessary when this data will be correlated to the simulation results. The cooling test rig was comprised of several electronically controlled mechanical components that resulted in a system control-system response delay. There was a transient region followed by the steady-state region. The determination of thermal time constant (τ) is being resolved to identify the steady-state region of the experimental test data.

This means that you will need to plot an XY plot (temperature and) time for each thermocouple. You will then use these graph(s) along with the time constant equation to determine the time constant. The data set is to analyze thermocouples (TC) 14 & 15, see attached data sheet.