Heat Transfer Coefficient For Condensation Inside Vertical Tubes Calculator

Average Condensation Coefficient Formula:

\[ h_{average} = 0.926 \times k_f \times \left( \frac{\rho_f}{\mu} \times (\rho_f - \rho_V) \times g \times \frac{\pi \times D_i \times N_t}{M_f} \right)^{1/3} \]

Thermal Conductivity in Heat Exchanger (kf):

W/m·K

Fluid Density in Heat Transfer (ρf):

kg/m³

Fluid Viscosity at Average Temperature (μ):

Pa·s

Density of Vapor (ρV):

kg/m³

Pipe Inner Diameter in Exchanger (Di):

Number of Tubes in Heat Exchanger (Nt):

Mass Flowrate in Heat Exchanger (Mf):

kg/s

Average Condensation Coefficient (h_average):

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1. What is the Average Condensation Coefficient Formula?

The Average Condensation Coefficient formula calculates the mean heat transfer coefficient for condensation inside vertical tubes, considering both inner and outer heat transfer during the condensation process in heat exchangers.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the condensation coefficient formula:

\[ h_{average} = 0.926 \times k_f \times \left( \frac{\rho_f}{\mu} \times (\rho_f - \rho_V) \times g \times \frac{\pi \times D_i \times N_t}{M_f} \right)^{1/3} \]

Where:

\( h_{average} \) — Average condensation coefficient (W/m²·K)
\( k_f \) — Thermal conductivity in heat exchanger (W/m·K)
\( \rho_f \) — Fluid density in heat transfer (kg/m³)
\( \mu \) — Fluid viscosity at average temperature (Pa·s)
\( \rho_V \) — Density of vapor (kg/m³)
\( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
\( D_i \) — Pipe inner diameter in exchanger (m)
\( N_t \) — Number of tubes in heat exchanger
\( M_f \) — Mass flowrate in heat exchanger (kg/s)

Explanation: This formula accounts for the complex relationship between fluid properties, geometry, and flow conditions during condensation heat transfer.

3. Importance of Condensation Heat Transfer Coefficient

Details: Accurate calculation of condensation heat transfer coefficient is crucial for designing efficient heat exchangers, optimizing energy transfer, and ensuring proper sizing of condensation equipment in various industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure values are positive and within reasonable physical ranges for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 0.926 coefficient?
A: The 0.926 coefficient is an empirical constant derived from experimental data that accounts for the specific conditions of condensation inside vertical tubes.

Q2: How does fluid viscosity affect the condensation coefficient?
A: Higher fluid viscosity generally reduces the condensation coefficient as it impedes fluid flow and heat transfer during the condensation process.

Q3: Why is the density difference (ρf - ρV) important?
A: The density difference drives the natural convection currents that enhance heat transfer during condensation, with larger differences typically resulting in higher coefficients.

Q4: What are typical ranges for condensation coefficients?
A: Condensation coefficients typically range from 5000-15000 W/m²·K for steam and 1000-5000 W/m²·K for organic vapors, depending on conditions.

Q5: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly suitable for laminar film condensation inside vertical tubes and provides good accuracy for engineering design purposes.