Heat Transfer Coefficient For Condensation Outside Vertical Tubes Calculator

Formula Used:

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

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 Outer Dia (DO):

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 Heat Transfer Coefficient for Condensation?

The heat transfer coefficient for condensation outside vertical tubes quantifies the efficiency of heat transfer during the condensation process. It represents the rate of heat transfer per unit area per unit temperature difference between the vapor and the tube surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

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

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)
\( D_O \) — Pipe outer diameter (m)
\( N_t \) — Number of tubes in heat exchanger
\( M_f \) — Mass flowrate in heat exchanger (kg/s)

Explanation: This formula calculates the average heat transfer coefficient for condensation outside vertical tubes, considering fluid properties, 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, condensers, and refrigeration systems. It helps in determining the required heat transfer area and optimizing system performance.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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

Q2: How does vapor density affect the condensation coefficient?
A: Lower vapor density increases the density difference (ρf - ρV), which enhances the condensation heat transfer coefficient.

Q3: Why is gravitational acceleration included in the formula?
A: Gravity affects the drainage of condensate film, which influences the heat transfer rate during condensation.

Q4: What are typical values for condensation heat transfer coefficients?
A: Typical values range from 1000-10000 W/m²·K for steam condensation and 500-5000 W/m²·K for refrigerant condensation.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: This equation is specifically for laminar film condensation outside vertical tubes and may not be accurate for other configurations or turbulent conditions.