Prediction of Heat Transfer During Condensation of Superheated Vapor Flowing Inside Channels

Many condensers such as those used in refrigeration and in chemical processing involve condensation of superheated vapor inside channels. Several models have been proposed for the prediction of heat transfer under such conditions but there has not been a comparison of these models with all available data to determine which one to use. Several models have been evaluated in the research reported here. All data that could be found was first compared to four models using the measured single-phase and saturated vapor condensing heat transfer coefficients. This identified the best model. The best model was then compared with data using single-phase and saturated condensing heat transfer coefficients calculated by various correlations. The data analyzed included seven fluids (CO2 and six halocarbon refrigerants), reduced pressure 0.00252 to 0.9492, mass flux 45 to 250 kg/m(2)s, and superheat up to 42 K. A satisfactory method for the calculation of superheated vapor condensation heat transfer has been identified. The results of this research are presented and recommendations are made for design calculations.