Investigation of heat, mass transfer and fluid flow characteristics in evaporative condensers

Heat and mass transfer and fluid flow characteristics in evaporative condensers is discussed. A complex pattern of water temperature and air enthalpy change was detected which depended upon elevation above the sump level. The results have indicated that the spray-filled space beneath the coil has a substantial effect of heat rejection in this type of apparatus. On the other hand, the effect of the upper spray nozzle zone is insignificant. It is possible to optimize the combination of various heat and mass transfer spaces, as well as the effect of extended surfaces and spray-filled spaces. Specifically, it will help to design better evaporative condensers with closely spaced staggered tubes, and to optimize the heat transfer and energy efficiency characteristics of such units.