Effect of vibration on condensation heat transfer coefficient

Abstract

The project deals with an investigation into the effect of vibration on condensation heat transfer. Saturated steam was condensed on a horizontal stainless steel tube which was transversely vibrated in the plane of the gravitational field. The work involved the design, instrumentation and development of a test condenser which employed a reciprocating mode of vibration and was capable of operating at different amplitudes and frequencies. An electric method employing a constant current to measure the condenser tube temperature was explained. The experimental results showed improvements in the heat transfer coefficient with vibration, over its value with no vibration. Empirical correlation of the experimental data under vibrational conditions was established. Results for the static condenser tests were correlated with Nusselts classical theory of condensation. Visual observations of the condensate orientation and drainage under vibrational conditions was reported.