ISSN Online: 2377-424X
International Heat Transfer Conference 4
FLOW STABILITY AND GRAVITATIONAL EFFECTS IN CONDENSER TUBES
Abstract
A transparent multitube condenser was used to investigate flow patterns, stability, and gravitational effects in condenser tubes of various geometries. Waves were observed on the surface of the liquid film in all
cases. The observed pressure fluctuations in the horizontal and vertical down positions of the condenser were due to waves striking the final vapor-liquid
interface. Condensing against gravity resulted in liquid film run-back and more pronounced pressure fluctuations. Correlations are presented for the amplitude of the pressure fluctuations. A transition from annular
to slug flow occurred in the immediate area of the vapor-liquid interface when the condensing flow was horizontal or opposite to the direction of gravity.