SUMMARY
The discussion centers on predicting the steam side heat transfer coefficient in a tube and shell heat exchanger when air is evacuated, leaving steam as the dominant gas. The presence of air significantly lowers the heat transfer coefficient, and the user seeks an empirical correlation to estimate U values based on non-condensable gas fractions. Current resources do not provide a suitable correlation for this specific scenario, leading to the conclusion that experimental testing may be necessary to derive an accurate approximation for the system.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of heat transfer principles, specifically condensation processes.
- Familiarity with tube and shell heat exchanger design and operation.
- Knowledge of empirical correlations related to heat transfer coefficients.
- Proficiency in using spreadsheet software for mathematical modeling and goal-seeking techniques.
NEXT STEPS
- Research empirical correlations for steam-air mixtures in heat exchangers.
- Learn about the effects of non-condensable gases on heat transfer coefficients.
- Investigate experimental methods for measuring heat transfer in condensation processes.
- Explore advanced modeling techniques for predicting heat transfer in evaporative cooling systems.
USEFUL FOR
Engineers, thermal system designers, and researchers involved in heat exchanger design and optimization, particularly those focusing on condensation processes and the impact of non-condensable gases.