The physical description and prediction of thermal contact conductance is a complex problem. Many researchers have investigated the phenomenon for almost as many applications. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the thermal contact conductance of finned tubes. More specifically, the basic theory and critical properties are presented and related to the physical parameters of finned tubes. It is concluded that the empirical work and theoretical background support the use of the interference, fin thickness, fin density, and tube OD and hardness as the basic parameters for empirical predictions of contact conductance.

Units: I-P