Average Heat Transfer Coefficient For Laminar Film Condensation On Outside Of Sphere Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ h_{avg} = 0.815 \times \left( \frac{\rho_f \times (\rho_f - \rho_v) \times [g] \times h_{fg} \times k_f^3}{D_{Sphere} \times \mu_f \times (T_{Sat} - T_w)} \right)^{0.25} \]

Density of Liquid Film (ρf):

kg/m³

Density of Vapor (ρv):

kg/m³

Latent Heat of Vaporization (hfg):

J/kg

Thermal Conductivity of Film Condensate (kf):

W/m·K

Diameter of Sphere (DSphere):

Viscosity of Film (μf):

Pa·s

Saturation Temperature (TSat):

Plate Surface Temperature (Tw):

Average Heat Transfer Coefficient (h_avg):

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1. What is the Average Heat Transfer Coefficient for Laminar Film Condensation?

The Average Heat Transfer Coefficient for Laminar Film Condensation on a Sphere is a measure of the heat transfer rate per unit area per unit temperature difference. It quantifies how effectively heat is transferred during the condensation process on spherical surfaces under laminar flow conditions.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

\[ h_{avg} = 0.815 \times \left( \frac{\rho_f \times (\rho_f - \rho_v) \times [g] \times h_{fg} \times k_f^3}{D_{Sphere} \times \mu_f \times (T_{Sat} - T_w)} \right)^{0.25} \]

Where:

\( \rho_f \) — Density of Liquid Film (kg/m³)
\( \rho_v \) — Density of Vapor (kg/m³)
\( [g] \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
\( h_{fg} \) — Latent Heat of Vaporization (J/kg)
\( k_f \) — Thermal Conductivity of Film Condensate (W/m·K)
\( D_{Sphere} \) — Diameter of Sphere (m)
\( \mu_f \) — Viscosity of Film (Pa·s)
\( T_{Sat} \) — Saturation Temperature (K)
\( T_w \) — Plate Surface Temperature (K)

Explanation: This formula calculates the average heat transfer coefficient for laminar film condensation on the outside of a sphere, considering the physical properties of the fluid and the geometry of the sphere.

3. Importance of Heat Transfer Coefficient Calculation

Details: Accurate calculation of the heat transfer coefficient is crucial for designing efficient heat exchangers, condensers, and other thermal systems. It helps in optimizing energy transfer and improving system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required physical properties in the appropriate units. Ensure that saturation temperature is greater than surface temperature for valid results. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is laminar film condensation?
A: Laminar film condensation occurs when vapor condenses on a surface and forms a continuous, smooth liquid film that flows downward under gravity in a laminar manner.

Q2: Why is the sphere geometry important?
A: Sphere geometry affects the condensation process due to its curved surface, which influences the flow dynamics and heat transfer characteristics of the condensate film.

Q3: What are typical values for the heat transfer coefficient?
A: Typical values range from 1000 to 10000 W/m²·K for condensation processes, depending on the fluid properties and operating conditions.

Q4: When is this formula applicable?
A: This formula is specifically valid for laminar film condensation on the outside of spherical surfaces and assumes constant fluid properties.

Q5: What are the limitations of this equation?
A: The equation assumes laminar flow conditions, constant surface temperature, and may not be accurate for turbulent flow or rapidly changing conditions.