Condensation Number Calculator

Condensation Number Formula:

\[ Co = (h) \times \left( \frac{(\mu_f)^2}{(k^3) \times (\rho_f) \times (\rho_f - \rho_v) \times [g]} \right)^{1/3} \]

Average Heat Transfer Coefficient:

W/m²K

Viscosity of Film:

Pa·s

Thermal Conductivity:

W/mK

Density of Liquid Film:

kg/m³

Density of Vapor:

kg/m³

Condensation Number (Co):

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1. What is the Condensation Number?

The Condensation Number is a dimensionless number that helps resolve equations in terms of film Reynolds number, which is important in determining condensation behavior in heat transfer systems.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Condensation Number formula:

\[ Co = (h) \times \left( \frac{(\mu_f)^2}{(k^3) \times (\rho_f) \times (\rho_f - \rho_v) \times [g]} \right)^{1/3} \]

Where:

\( Co \) — Condensation Number (dimensionless)
\( h \) — Average Heat Transfer Coefficient (W/m²K)
\( \mu_f \) — Viscosity of Film (Pa·s)
\( k \) — Thermal Conductivity (W/mK)
\( \rho_f \) — Density of Liquid Film (kg/m³)
\( \rho_v \) — Density of Vapor (kg/m³)
\( [g] \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)

Explanation: The equation relates various physical properties to determine the condensation behavior in heat transfer systems.

3. Importance of Condensation Number Calculation

Details: The Condensation Number is crucial for analyzing and designing condensation heat transfer systems, predicting film behavior, and optimizing thermal performance in various industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure that density of liquid film is greater than density of vapor for valid calculation. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range of Condensation Number values?
A: Condensation Number typically ranges from 0.01 to 0.1 for most practical condensation applications, though it can vary based on specific system conditions.

Q2: How does Condensation Number relate to film Reynolds number?
A: Condensation Number helps establish the relationship between heat transfer coefficient and film Reynolds number, which is essential for analyzing condensation heat transfer.

Q3: What are the key assumptions in this calculation?
A: The calculation assumes laminar film condensation, constant properties, and negligible vapor shear stress at the liquid-vapor interface.

Q4: When is this calculation most applicable?
A: This calculation is most applicable for vertical surfaces experiencing film condensation where gravitational forces dominate.

Q5: What are the limitations of this approach?
A: The approach may be less accurate for turbulent film conditions, inclined surfaces, or when other forces (such as surface tension) significantly influence the condensation process.