Microchannel Condensation: Comparison of Annular Laminar Flow Theory With Detailed Measurements

Detailed experimental investigations of condensation in microchannels where local heat flux and surface temperature were measured along the channel are compared with theoretical results for the special case of annular, laminar flow. The theoretical model includes surface tension driven transverse flow towards the corners of the channel as well as shear stress driven streamwise flow in an otherwise Nusselt treatment. The theory has no empirical input. When distributions along the channel of the local vapor and wall temperatures are given, local heat flux and heat-transfer coefficient, as well as local vapor quality, may be calculated. Such detailed experimental data have only recently become available. Strict implementation of the theory requires that the onset of condensation occurs within the channel, i.e. the vapor is saturated or superheated at the inlet. The comparisons show remarkably good agreement with the experimental data for two fluids and covering a wide range of experimental conditions.