Recent Progress in Enhancing Film Condensation Heat Transfer on Horizontal Tubes

An assessment of several promising techniques that use surface tension forces to enhance film condensation heat transfer on horizontal tubes is made. Recent progress on integral-fin tubes is stressed, including experimental findings on fin spacing, geometry, and material and the latest theoretical developments for predicting performance. Condensation heat transfer enhancement on wire-wrapped tubes is also examined, as well as the use of nonwetting strips and porous drainage devices. The effect of condensate inundation on plain and enhanced tubes is reviewed briefly, and future research directions are discussed.