Condensation Calculation Formula

Condensation Rate Formula:

\[ \text{Condensation Rate} = h \times A \times (T_s - T_\infty) \]

Heat Transfer Coefficient (h):

W/m²K

Surface Area (A):

m²

Surface Temperature (Ts):

Ambient Temperature (T∞):

Condensation Rate:

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1. What is the Condensation Rate Formula?

The Condensation Rate Formula calculates the mass transfer rate during condensation processes based on heat transfer principles. It determines how quickly vapor condenses into liquid on a surface due to temperature differences.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the condensation rate formula:

\[ \text{Condensation Rate} = h \times A \times (T_s - T_\infty) \]

Where:

\( h \) — Heat transfer coefficient (W/m²K)
\( A \) — Surface area available for condensation (m²)
\( T_s \) — Surface temperature where condensation occurs (K)
\( T_\infty \) — Ambient vapor temperature (K)

Explanation: The formula calculates the condensation mass flow rate based on the heat transfer driving force created by the temperature difference between the surface and the surrounding vapor.

3. Importance of Condensation Rate Calculation

Details: Accurate condensation rate calculation is crucial for designing heat exchangers, refrigeration systems, power plants, and various industrial processes involving phase change heat transfer.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter heat transfer coefficient in W/m²K, surface area in m², surface temperature in Kelvin, and ambient temperature in Kelvin. All values must be positive and temperatures in absolute scale.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What factors affect the heat transfer coefficient (h)?
A: Surface geometry, fluid properties, flow velocity, surface roughness, and the presence of non-condensable gases all influence the heat transfer coefficient.

Q2: Why use Kelvin instead of Celsius for temperatures?
A: Kelvin is an absolute temperature scale required for thermodynamic calculations involving temperature differences and heat transfer equations.

Q3: What are typical values for heat transfer coefficients in condensation?
A: For steam condensation, h typically ranges from 5,000-15,000 W/m²K for film condensation and up to 50,000-100,000 W/m²K for dropwise condensation.

Q4: How does surface orientation affect condensation?
A: Horizontal surfaces generally have higher condensation rates than vertical surfaces due to better condensate drainage and thinner liquid films.

Q5: When is this formula most accurate?
A: The formula provides good accuracy for pure vapors condensing on clean surfaces under steady-state conditions with well-defined temperature differences.