Performance Evaluation of a 3D-Printed Multi-Layer Wick Flow Condenser

Abstract Vapor condensation of low surface tension fluids typically leads to the filmwise condensation mode with a reduced condensation heat transfer rate. To address this issue, we introduce an innovative 3D-printed gradient wick flow condenser aimed at improving the condensation heat transfer performance of low surface tension fluids. The gradient wick topology is designed to distribute pore sizes strategically for enhanced condensation heat transfer. This study also focuses on optimizing the coolant-side heat transfer features of a multilayer gradient wick flow condenser through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. First, CFD simulations were performed to determine the optimum condenser geometry with specific emphasis on the effect of fin topology. Then, the optimal condenser geometry is 3D-printed with stainless steel and experimentally evaluated with Novec 7100 as a representative dielectric fluid at a mass flow rate ranging from 1 to 2.6 g/s and subcooling from 6°C to 22°C. The findings from this study provide innovative strategies for developing compact 3D-printed multi-layer wick flow condensers with distinctive heat transfer properties.