Heat Transfer Coefficient For Condensation Outside Horizontal Tubes Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ h_{average} = 0.95 \times k_f \times \left( \frac{\rho_f \times (\rho_f - \rho_V) \times \frac{g}{\mu} \times \frac{N_t \times L_t}{M_f}}{} \right)^{\frac{1}{3}} \times (N_{Vertical})^{-\frac{1}{6}} \]

Thermal Conductivity in Heat Exchanger (k_f):

W/m·K

Fluid Density in Heat Transfer (ρ_f):

kg/m³

Density of Vapor (ρ_V):

kg/m³

Fluid Viscosity at Average Temperature (μ):

Pa·s

Number of Tubes in Heat Exchanger (N_t):

Length of Tube in Heat Exchanger (L_t):

Mass Flowrate in Heat Exchanger (M_f):

kg/s

Number of Tubes in Vertical Row of Exchanger (N_Vertical):

Average Condensation Coefficient (h_average):

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1. What is the Heat Transfer Coefficient for Condensation Outside Horizontal Tubes?

The heat transfer coefficient for condensation outside horizontal tubes is a critical parameter in heat exchanger design that quantifies the efficiency of heat transfer during the condensation process on the external surfaces of horizontal tubes.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

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)
\( \rho_V \) — Density of vapor (kg/m³)
\( g \) — Gravitational acceleration (9.80665 m/s²)
\( \mu \) — Fluid viscosity at average temperature (Pa·s)
\( N_t \) — Number of tubes in heat exchanger
\( L_t \) — Length of tube in heat exchanger (m)
\( M_f \) — Mass flowrate in heat exchanger (kg/s)
\( N_{Vertical} \) — Number of tubes in vertical row of exchanger

Explanation: This formula calculates the average heat transfer coefficient for condensation outside horizontal tubes, considering fluid properties, tube geometry, and flow conditions.

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 all values are positive and within reasonable physical limits for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 0.95 factor in the formula?
A: The 0.95 factor is an empirical coefficient that accounts for deviations from ideal condensation conditions and provides a more accurate prediction of the average heat transfer coefficient.

Q2: How does tube arrangement affect condensation heat transfer?
A: The vertical tube arrangement (N_Vertical) affects condensate drainage and film thickness, which significantly influences the heat transfer coefficient during condensation.

Q3: What are typical values for condensation heat transfer coefficients?
A: Typical values range from 1000-5000 W/m²·K for steam condensation and 500-2000 W/m²·K for organic vapors, depending on fluid properties and operating conditions.

Q4: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is particularly suitable for laminar film condensation on the outside of horizontal tubes and provides good accuracy for most engineering applications.

Q5: What limitations should be considered when using this formula?
A: The formula assumes ideal conditions and may need modification for high vapor velocities, non-condensable gases, or complex tube bundle arrangements.