Heat transfer during film condensation inside plain tubes. Review of theoretical research

This paper critically reviews the existing theoretical models of heat transfer prediction in condensing inside plain tubes. More than 20 theoretical methods and correlations for heat transfer prediction during different modes of condensate film flow and phase distribution are considered. Lack of prior substantiation of correct application of different turbulent viscosity models for heat transfer calculation in condensing with and without influence of interfacial shear stress has been noted. The existing discrepancy of ±10% between different theoretical methods for heat transfer prediction during fully developed turbulence flow of condensate film without predominant influence of vapour velocity is shown. The dependence of theoretical methods on accuracy of frictional pressure drop determination in condensing with predominant influence of vapour velocity is highlighted. The method by Bae and others (1969) is recommended as the most correct theoretical method for prediction of heat transfer coefficients in annular flow of the phases in various heat exchangers, particularly in the evaporative systems of thermal desalinating plants, air conditioning systems, safety systems of reactors, heaters of power plants and condensers of cooling equipment.