Theoretical and experimental studies in shell-side condensation

Abstract

Paper presented at the 6th International Conference on Heat Transfer, Fluid Mechanics and Thermodynamics, South Africa, 30 June - 2 July, 2008.

The fundamental phenomena behind condensation on simple banks of plain tubes and free and forced convection condensation on single integral-fin tubes are examined. This is followed by a detailed evaluation of available theoretical models and empirical correlations. Throughout the paper, a strong emphasis is placed on quantitative evaluation of predictive methods. For example, in the case of condensation on banks of plain tubes a data base of nearly five thousand points, covering 6 test fluids and 13 tube bank geometries is compared to theoretical models available in the literature. Finally, gaps in the available knowledge are highlighted and it is hoped that this will help stimulate further work on these areas.