Single-phase convective heat transfer and pressure drop coefficients in concentric annuli

Abstract

Varying diameter ratios associated with smooth concentric tube-in-tube heat exchangers are known to have an effect on their convective heat transfer capabilities. Linear and nonlinear regression models exist for determining the heat transfer coefficients; however, these are complex and time-consuming, and require much experimental data in order to obtain accurate solutions. A large data set of experimental measurements on heat exchangers with annular diameter ratios of 0.483, 0.579, 0.593, and 0.712 with respective hydraulic diameters of 17.01 mm, 13.84 mm, 10.88 mm, and 7.71 mm was gathered. Mean Nusselt numbers were determined using the modified Wilson plot method, a nonlinear regression scheme, and the logarithmic mean temperature difference method. These three methods presented disagreements with existing correlations based on local wall temperatures. The local Nusselt numbers were determined using the logarithmic mean temperature difference method. Local wall temperature measurements were made using a novel method that minimized obstructions within the annulus. Friction factors were calculated directly from measured pressure drops across the annuli. Both heated and cooled horizontal annuli in fully turbulent flow with Reynolds numbers based on the hydraulic diameter varying from 10,000 to 45,000 with water as the working medium were investigated.