Optimization of fin geometry of a horizontal low-finned condenser tube

A theoretical study has been performed to optimize the fin geometry of a horizontal low-finned condenser tube. Three classes of two-dimensional annular fins were considered, which were a parabolic fin, a rectangular fin with a round corner at the fin tip, and a newly proposed fin with a monotonically increasing radius of curvature near the fin tip and a constant thickness near the fin root. Extensive numerical calculations of film condensation were made on the three classes of fins with refrigerants R-11 and R-123 as working fluids. The highest heat-transfer performance was obtained with the newly proposed fin. Numerical results showing the effect of fin material on the optimum fin geometry are presented.