An Evaluation of Correlations for Predicting the Heat Transfer Coefficient during the Condensation of Saturated and Superheated Vapors Inside Channels

Condensation heat transfer is involved in many industrial applications. Therefore, it is important to know the relative accuracy of the available methods for predicting heat transfer. Condensation can occur with saturated as well as superheated vapors. Predictive methods for both conditions were evaluated using a wide range of data. Twelve well-known correlations for the condensation of saturated vapor, including the most recent ones, were compared with data for 51 pure fluids and mixtures from 132 sources in horizontal and vertical channels of many shapes. Channel hydraulic diameters were 0.08–49 mm, the mass flux was 1.1–1400 kg/m2s, and the reduced pressure range was 0.0006–0.949. The fluids included water, CO2, ammonia, hydrocarbons, halocarbon refrigerants, various chemicals, and heat transfer fluids. The best predictive technique was identified. The three most commonly used models for heat transfer during the condensation of superheated vapors were studied. They were first compared with test data using measured saturated condensation and forced convection heat transfer coefficients to select the best model. The selected model was then compared with test data using various correlations for heat transfer coefficients needed in the model. The best correlations to use in the model were identified. The results of this research are presented, as are recommendations for use in design.