Research is needed to quantify the relationship between oil concentration and heat transfer coefficient degradation using an ozone friendly refrigerant and a miscible oil. Specifically, the study will generate oil effect performance data for columns, bundles, and both 2-D and 3-D commercially available condenser tubing. Engineers in the HVAC and refrigeration industries need correlation of the data provided by this research project for condenser modeling and design.

The objective of this research project is to study the effect of liquid inundation and lubricant concentration on the shell-side condensation heat transfer coefficient. In addition, the project will quantify the effect of surface enhancement and refrigerant properties on both single tubes and tube bundles. The scope of the experimental work will cover a wide range of variables. A literature search will also be performed on shell-side condensation.

Principal Investigator: Steven J. Eckels, Kansas State University

Conducted: April 1997 - February 2000

Sponsored by: TC 8.5, Liquid-to-Refrigerant Heat Exchangers