183

9. CONDE NSERS

9.1. Introduction
ssion refrige
The conden ser is one of the principal elements in a vapour compre
refrigerated object (OJ
ration system. In the condenser, the absorb ed heat from the
dings from the
and the compression heat (6Q=L ) are rejected to the surroun
ser the refrigerant
compre ssed refrigerant vapour. During heat transfer in the conden
temperature (T
vapour is converted into liquid al condensing pressure (p e) and
water, air, or
are
Common heat carriers from the condenser to the surroundings
profile in a conden ser
their combination. The condensation process and temperature
of the condenser.
are shown in Figure (9-1 ). where (l ) is the conditional length
heat (qc) and the
sation
In a standard refrigeration system, the specific conden
ed as follows:
total rejected heat or heat flux of the condenser (Oe) may be estimat

J.

(9-1)
(9-2)

logp

T
2

",

Pc. Tc

Po . To

,.

w,
l
i and T L diagrams.
Figure (9-1). Condensation and subcoo!ing processes in log p -

, 84

Chapter H

In a refrigeration system with subcooling, as shown in Figure (9-1), a part of

the heat (0 0

+ PJ is rejected to the surroundings in the subcooler with the heat

capacity O,(q,). In that case Ihe heat capacity is:

(9-3)
(9-4)
Different condenser types have been devI310ped with successful designs for
operation. They can be classified into three grolJPs in consideration of the heat carrier
type and the mechanism of heat transfer:
- water-cooled condensers, including shell and tube (horizontal). open shell and

tube (vertical). multishell, and double pipe condensers;

- air-cooled condensers, including forced draught and natural convection condensers;
- evaporative condensers, including atmospheric and evaporative condensers.
The first two condenser types are charac\E!rized by the transfer of sensible heat
to the heat carrier, but in the third type both sensible and latent heat are transferred
to the heat carrier. The water-cooled condensers use lake, river, or well water. When
the available cooling water may not cover

condenser

requirements, a closed

secondary system with a cooling tower is applied.

9.2. The selection of a condenser type
The selection of a condenser type depends on the condenser heat capacity (Oe)'
design water and/or air temperature (T w,) and flow rale

(M...J, climate condition

(T wb)'

cooling water availability, applied refrigerant, and the duration of the yearly operation
period (r). The proper choice of a condenser type may considerably influence the
condensing temperature

(Te) and pressure (p), and through them :

- compression work (I) and annual energ)' consumption (E);
- theoretical displacement (V t ) and volumetric efficiency (11,), if a piston compressor is applied;

- and condenser heat capacity (OJ

The effective compression work {I.} for known indicated (11 1) and mechanical (11m)
efficiencies can be estimated in a function of the adiabatic work I. = Vl/j11m. For a
refrigeration system with 0 0 = 500 kW, to = (10) C, and a piston compressor, (11 i)

185

Condensers

1,0

o" r--_____
0,'

Figure (9-2). The dependence of lJ i, and lJ v ' on

to/.]
Qp
Qt

teo

/-- - Q,

Q,
16{)

Qt

140

120
100
80
6{)

Q,

so tc [oc]
Figure (9-3). The dependence of O~. 01' and 0v on t,.

Chapter 9

186

Table (9-1)

Results of the comparative analysis of different condenser types for I., 0" and 0e

No

Item

Index

Dimension

!t~e

Condenser
water

evaporative

cooled

air

cooled

1. desing condensing
temperature

toO
I,

2. isentropic work
3. indicated efficiency
4. effective work

'C

20

38

45

kJlkg

18,6

38,3

44,3

0,92

0,84

0,83

"I,

kJl kg

22

49,7

58

D,

79,5

109,4

105,4

153

5. characteristic parametar
for effective work

6. characteristic parametar

for power

Table (9-2)
Results of an analysis for energy savings with different condenser types
Type of condenser
No
Item
Index Dimen- water
air
evaporative
sian
cooled
cooled
1. condensing

temperature Ie

-desing

temperature

to'

20

38

45

20

25

27

-average year

temperature

-average summer

"

temperature

too

20

28

35

temperature

t~

20

22

22

-desing

D"
DE,
DE.
DE.

105,4

153

0
0

24,8
40,5

87,2

9,9

9,9

-average winter
2. relative energy
saving 0E

-year
-summer
-winter

35,2

and ('1) in a function of the condensing temperatures are shown in Figure (9-2). For
the accepted system characteristics (tJ, (OJ, and (1). the results of a comparative
analysis for a single stage regenerative vapour compression
with

R22

refrigeration system

are presented for alternatively selecting water-COoled, air-cooled, or

evaporative condensers. For the water-cooled condenser as a reference case, with

Condensers

187

reference effective work I.. and power P. f' the characteristic parameters for work
and power are defined as 0, "" 100(1 ' -I .f) II .' and 0 p "" 100 (P -
P ,lIP.
The results
.,
of the analysis, for selection of water cooled condenser instead of other condenser
types, are shown in Table (9 1, 2, 3) and Figure (9-3).
Table (9-3)
Results of Ihe analysis for a system with 0 0 = 500 kW,

10::

(-10) C, and

= 4000

h/sez

No
1.

Item

Ind ex

Dimen- _--;;;~
Ty~p~e"-,o~f~c~o~n~d~e~n~s~e~r"",,,~
sion
water
air
cooled

evaporative

cooled

Design conden-

20

38

45

0=0

, ,

105,4

153

displacement

O.

28,2

43,8
0,69
0,230
0,333

sing temperature
2.

Parameter for power and

3.

energy saving for led

Parameter for theoretical

4.

Volumetric efficiency for ted

5.

Volume flow rate

".V

0,1 91

0,218

6.

Theoretical displacement

V,

0,233

0,298

7.

Average summer condens-

20

28

kW
kW

75,6

155,3

75,6

106,2

35
191,3
141 ,5

E,

MWh/sum.

207

290

387,5

.o.E.

MWh/sum.

83

180,5

kW

575,6

655,3

691,3

ing temperature
8.

Effective design power

9.

Average power for tem

0,84

0,73

10. Summer energy consumption

11 . Relative summer

energy

savings
12. Design condenser heat capacity

The advantages of a selected condenser compared to other types depend on:

climate conditions; the type of plant and its ability to operate year-round (y), during
summer (s), and during winter (w); the duration 01 yearly operation (T); and the
condenser price. If a waler-cooled condenser is a reference case with a yearly energy
consumption (E f ). the

relative energy savings compared to systems with other

condenser types is 0E = 100 (E - E,lIE,.

Chapter 9

lBB

The theoretical displacement or compressor dimensions depend on Ie and 1/.,.,

the actual volume flow rate

II or refrigerating capacity 00' and a relative clearance

pocket (c = 0,04):

Qo

Qo

1J~

qo 1/v

qv "Iv

VI =-=-- '~ --

(9-5)

The functional relation of 0... :: 100 (VI' VIS) I VIl is shown in Figure (93) and Table

(9-3).
9.3. Water-cooled condensers
9.3.1. The shell and tube condenser
9.3.1.1. Condenser description
The shell and tube condenser is the most often applied water-cooled condenser.
For middle and large heat capacities horizontal, multitubular shell and tube condensers are applied in which water circulates in the tubes and the condensing
refrigerant within the shell. For small heat capacities, shell and coil condensers are
applied.
A shell and tube condenser consists of a cylindrical shell with two tube plates
welded onto its ends. A multitubular package with intermediate supports is situated
in the tube plates. The tube ends are pressed into the plates or welded onto them .
Both ends of the condenser are covered with welded or casted covers with partition
walls, which create conditions for water flow through many passages. This creates
a high water velocity and efficient heat transfer from, the condensing refrigerant vapour
to the cooling water. A scheme of a condenser for an ammonia system is shown in

-",

Figure (9-4). A scheme of an ammonia shell and tube condenser.

Condensers

189

Figure (9-4). The condenser consists of the refrigerant vapour supply (1); the refrigerant liquid bleeding(2); the water supply (3); the water bleeding (4); the oil bleeding
(5): the liquid level indicator (6): the manometer (7); the water regulating valve (8):
the thermometer (9); the gas purger (10): the connection (11) lor emptying; the salety
disc (12); the safety valve (13); to the air separator (14); and to the receiver (15).

II

[II

Figure (9-5). A possible disposition of lube banks.

An ammonia condenser has plain, seamless steel pipes. They may have a corridor
(I). a staggered tube bank (II). or a romboidaltube bank (III). as shown in Figure
(9-5). An ammonia shell condenser is suitable for heat capacities from (5Q.5000) kW

.~
--

j_

.
uA
=<

Figure (9-6). Pipe fin profiles , condenser covers , and a detail of assembled plate
and tube.

Chapter 9

190

and more. It has a high overall heat transfer coeHicient k "" (BOO - 1000) (W/m2K)
and qF "" (4000 - 5500) (W'm~) for a temperature difference AT m

::

(4-6) K and a water

velocity (0,8 - 1,5) (m/s).

Copper pipes are used for a halocarbon shell and lube condenser. The
halocarbon refrigerants have smaller surface heat transfer coefficients (erR) on the
refrigerant side than (a.,.) on the water side of the pipes. For that reason the copper
pipes have a finned external surface made with fin profiles, as shown in Figure (96), which has a magnitude (3-4) times larger than the inside surface. A halocarbon
shell and tube condenser has an overall heat transfer coefficient relating to the finned

external surface k "" (350 - 500)(W/m 2 K), and the specific heat flux related to the
external pipe surlace qR :: (4000

5000)(W/m~),

if water velocity is (1,5 - 2,5) (m/s).

9.3.1.2. Condenser thermal estimation

The condenser heat trans fer surlace

F~

is estimated from the heat transfer equation

using signs from Figure (9-1):

(9-6)
(9-7)

(9-8)

The temperature difference estimated from Eq.(9-7) gives an approximate value.

The actual 6 tm can be obtained by considering the temperatures of superheated
vapour and subcooled liquid, if the subcooler is integrated with the condenser.
The wall temperatures on the refrigerant side (t. R) and water side (t.J of the
condenser, if external (F.) and internal (F j) surlaces are equal and 1m:: 0,5 (1 ..1 + tw"l)'
may be obtained from the equality of overall heat transfer and heat convection:
Qe:: all. Fe ( Ie -ls R ) = a ... F, (lsw -1m) = kFe(lc - III!)

(9-9)

IIR=le-k (tc- lm)/ali.

(910)

's"':: 1m - k (tc + 1m )/a",

(9.1 1)

A plecise determination of (t.R) and (t.J is possible by computer estimation or

by the grapho-analytical method.

Condensers

191

The required water volume flow rate (W) necessary to remove the heat from
the refrigerant and to reject it to the surroundings, and water velocity (w) are:

W=

Q,
pew (t\V2 tWI )
4z

(9-12)

(9-13)

w= - - ntrdi 2

Above, d l is the internal pipe diameter, n is the number pipes and z is the number
of water passages.
The external condenser heat transfer surface (Fel may be computed from Eq .
(9-8). The overall heat transfer coefficients k (W/m2K). which correspond to the
external surface for plain seamless pipes (kJ and for finned pipes (k,l. jf 6 is the
pipe wall thickness, ().) is the thermal conductivity coefficient,

(d ~

and (d) are the

external and internal diameters, and (F.) and (F) are the external and internal surfaces ,
may be computed as follows :
(9-14)

(9- 15)

The part 'ilN)' represents aU kinds of thermal resistances, including the pipe wall,
oil, scale, metalic corrosion and impurities from both sides of the pipe. Fin eHiciency
for small fin height (h), and

In

";2 aRI d,lr. is rp = tgh (mh) ! mh ..1. Through experi-

mental relations based on the heat transfer and similarity theory, CaR) and (aj can
be estimated.
The surface heat transfer coeHicient (a R ) for horizontal plain pipes in a horizontal
shell and tube condenser with condensate film and laminar flow can be obtained by
the following equation:
a~ = 0,724 c, CIA

l(1,-lsR) de I

0,1$

(9- 16)

if A = (gp2).3/lJ)O.ts, g is earth acceleration, (P) is liquid density, ('1) is dynamic viscosity.

and r is condensation heat. The coeHicient (1: 1) takes into consideration the liquid film
thickness along the lower pipe rows, and the coefficient (1: 2) takes into consideration
vapour velocity at the first horizontal row. If (n m) is the medial vertical pipe row number,

Chapter 9

IS2

(n) is the total pipe number. (5,) and (S2) are the horizontal and vertical pitch of pipes,
(vi') is the vapour velocity through the narrow section of the upper pipe row,

a~:::

)"'c"r/p is the thermal diffusivity coefficient, (cJ is the constant pressure specific heat,

e,,")

is the kinematic viscosity, A". "" vI'd.l"" is the Reynolds number, and P, = ,,"/a"

is the Prandtl number. then it follows that:

(,=(Cnm )

-1 / 6

s,~

nm = 1,039 S2 vlrn /2
(1 ::::;

0,43 (Rt! " ) 0,\2

P," ) -0.33

Taking into consideration that (Ie'

t,) is small, all physical properties for liquid

refrigerant parameters in Eq . (9-16) may be determined for the condensing tempera-

ture. The coefficient C in Eq. (9-16a) is C :: 1 for the corridor and C = 0,5 for the
staggered lube bank.
The surface heat transfer coefficient (a Rl ) for horizontal finned pipes in a horizontal
shell and tube condenser with laminar flow condensate film, if (el ) is calculated with
the specific condensation conditions on vertical and horizontal surtace parts of finned
pipes, can be obtained as follows:

10,25

(S-\7)

/IR) d~

(S-18)
In Eq.(9-18): F, F", and F are the total, horizontal, and vertical parts of one meter
of condenser pipe surtace; H "" 0,785 (02 - d.2)/D is the r elative fin height; (D) is the
fin diameter; F" "" Td. (1- OIs)

+ .... D5,1s;

F = O,5T([)2 - d.2)/s; (s) is the pitch of fins;

and (5) and (iiI) are fin thickness at the base and end of the fin, and F = Fh

F.,.

The surface heat transfer coefficient (aJ inside condenser pipes can be determined for turbulent water flow as follows:

di

Nil ,. T a ... = O,02IR t

a,sp,0,43

(S-IS)

wo,S

a ... "" B ----02

(S-20)

8 = 0,021 ), 0.s7 p 0.1 C O.~l 'I -0.37

(S-21 )

d, -

Condensers

193

All physical parameters correspond to the water, and they are determined lor a
medium water temperature. In Eqs . (9-19, 20): N.. =a....d, f).. is the Nussell number:

A. ==wd/" is the Reynolds number: P,=,,/a is the Prandtl number; and (w) is the water
velocity.
The thermal condenser estimation should consider both the presence 01 noncondensable gases and all deposits on pipe surfaces.
The presence of air and other noncondensable gases in the condenser has
considerable influence on hElat transfer efficiency. Another disadvantage is that the
partial pressure of noncondensabJe gases and, correlatively, the total condensating
pressure rises, which leads to higher work consumption. It is recommended that gas
be evacuated systematically from the condenser.
a - from waU to wa t K

b - seate

q~~------------------~

C - pipe walt
d - oillaytr

ea

condtnSQt~

f(\m

"

0-

c"

,,'"

...;"

tsw

t l'Cl

Figure (9-7). A diagram for a grapho-analytical determination of qf.

In case of ammonia systems the presence of an oil layer (00 "" 0,05 mm and
h =0,12 W/mKj and scale deposit on the water side of the pipe (0. == 0,2 - 0,3 and
o
h. = 1,5 W/mKj reduces the overall heat transfer coefficient. The specific heat flux,
if the pipe wall thermal resistance is irrelevant, may be expressed by the fallowing
two equations. with respect to Eqs. (9-10, 11, 16,17, 20) and t",m = t, - AIm:

Chapter 9

194

(9-22)
(9-23)

If the oil and scale thermal resistance are neglected. (EOA = OJ, Eq. (9 - 23) takes

the following form:

F;

qf:Z

aw(lsw -lwm) Fe

(9-23a)

Using Eqs. (9 . 22, 23, 23a), (qF) can be determined by an iterative computation
procedure or by using a grapho-anaJytical method, as shown in Figure (97),
The curve (AG) is obtained from Eq. (9-22) for temperature magnitudes

t.R< t~ .

The straight line (BG) is obtained from Eq. (9 23a) for t.Of).. "" 0 and a w = canst. The
seclion of the curve (BG) and line (AC) determines qn and the wall temperature I .
if r.0! h = O. If the scale and oil deposits are taken into consideration, then

r.o/)..

>0

and the line (AE) is obtained. The pOint (El gives the actual magnitude of qF and
the wall temperature from the refrigerant side. Point (0) determines the wall temperature on the water side. From the triangle (BEE') the coefficient

E E'

""hF"i

DE

O'R

can be obtained:

qf

= 19tp = - - -

tc-ts R

:al

In some cases horizontal shell and tube condensers are applied in which
refrigerant condenses inside the tubes. The character

of vapour flow when it

condenses inside pipes changes from laminar to turbulent. Jf LI and d j are the tube
length and internal diameter; M is the coefficient which depends on Ie and the
refrigeran t properties shown in Table (9-4); and tm '" 0,5 (te+ l,,q)' then the convection
coefficient from the refrigerant side

O'R

may be obtained as follows:

L 0,35

aR "" M qf 0,5 ----025

dj ,

(9-24)

In this condenser type water flows around the sides of

convective coefficient

0'",

external pipes. The

depends on water properties, the velocity and character

of flow, the disposition of tube banks, and the horizontal (Sl) and vertical (S2) pitch
of pipes, as shown in Figure (9-7a).

195

Condensers

Table (9-4)
Magnitu des of M in a function 01 1m

t",(G)

A717

M for different refrigerants

R12
R11

R22
3,32

10

8,78

4,53

3,36

20

8,10

4,21

2.88

3,16

3,65
3,78

2,67

2,99

2,58

2,90

7,44

30
40

5,39

tube banks,
Figure (9-7a). Corridor, staggered, and spiral dispositions of

Table (9-5)
bank dispos itions
Coefficients c and m in a function of flow types and tube
Corridor Stagge red
Flow charac ter
m
c
m
c
Turbulent flow

A. >

2xl0~

0 ,02

0, 84

0,02 1

0,84

0.27

0,63

0,4

0,60

0,52

0,50

0,60

0,50

Transient flow

R '" 103

- 2xl0~

Laminar flow
R <: 10J

Chapter 9

196
The

medium coefficient (O'J for different tube bank

dispositions may

be

computed, using figures in Table (9S) , from the following equations:

aK'

=.!C Rt P,O,36 ( P, ) 0,25

d,
P"

_).a ... -

SIS:

de 47,62d/

(925)

Rt 0,8 pO,43
( p, )0,25
r
PIS

(926)

The ollerall heat transfer coefficients. which correspond to the internal pipe
surface, may be computed as follows for plain seamless pipes (kpil and for finned

pipes {k'il:
k p'=l

dil

-aR +'I+ de a..,

kfi = 1

IS

F;

(9-27)

(9-28)

+',+
-a.
I(>Fe a K'
9.3.1.3. Condenser hydraulic estimation

The fluid flow in the condenser is accompanied by hydrauhc and gasdynamic

losses, both on the refrigerant and water sides of the pipes.
If {Il is the length of pipe, (w) is water velocity,

(Pj is water density, (z) is the

number of water passages, and the drag coeHicient for R. = {3 100)1Ql is

r=

O,3164/R.O.2', then the pressure depression 6pw {Pal on the water side may be
obtained as follows :
llpw =

w2t. [1;/ + 1.5 (1 + I )]

(9-29)

Hydraulic resistance on the refrigerant side. if h is the height of refrigerant level.

may be taken as H =hp R,
t

9.3.1.4_ A recommendation for primary dimension estimation

A preliminary estimation of the primary condenser dimension IS necessary for
thermal and hydrodynamic condenser computation. Common pipes are situated
along the sides of a normal sixangle. If m is the pipe number along a longer diagonal,
s is the horizontal pitch of pipes. and s/2 is the horizontal distance from the last
pipe axis to the condenser cylinder, then the internal condenser shell diameter is:

D,

nu

(9-30)

Condensers

197

If the estimated heat transfer suriace of the condenser is (F), the external pipe
diameter is (d.), the chosen number of pipes is (n), and the external surface of one
meter of finned pipe is (fJ, then the total pipe length (Lpl. (LI), and the length of pipe
(Ip), (II) are:

F
nd,

F
Ip=--

Lf=-

Lp=-

nJ,

1f

n de

I
F
f= 1rnfe

(9-31)

If a pipe length (Ip) is chosen, the entire pipe number (n) and the pipe number
in one pass (n) for a plain pipe are:

Ln 3
2
n
4W
n=-L-=-(m -1)+1, nX=-=--2
I
4
Z
Jtwdj

(9-32)

The total refrigerant flow section of the condenser (fAl. if the refrigerant velocity
is (w A). may be obtained as follows:

fR

IV

w,

::= -

1f

'" -

Dr~ - n d')
i

(9-33)

From Eqs. (9-30, 33), the internal shell diameter and the pitch of pipes are as
follows:

4W

Di=(--+ndi)

CIS

]"{ \IIR

D
s = - > 1,3 de

(9-34)

'"

9.3. 1.5. Condenser strength estimation

The

condenser

shell is under static pressure and

temperature differences.

Estimating pressure on the refrigerant side corresponds to the saturated pressure

for a lemperature of 50C. For special cases (heat pumps) a higher pressure must
be chosen for an appropriate temperature. Estimating (p) and testing (PI) pressures
for a water-cooled condenser are given in Table (9-6)

The testing pressure for

condensers installed in ship refrigeration systems are 25 (%) higher than those given
in Table (9-6).
The wall thickness (s) of the condenser shell with an internal diameter D, in which
acts estimating pressure p. has to be computed by the fOllowing formula:

s=

pD
+c
2 tp op P

(9-35)

198

Chapter 9

Table (9-6)
Estimating and testing condenser (CJ and evaporator (E) pressures
Pressure (bar)

Estimating

hydraulic

R12

pneumatic
hyd raulic

R13

pneumatic

A7l 7

hydraulic

R22

pneumatic

Testing

C,

16

12,5

20

20

20

16

C,

20
16
25
20
25
20

16
12,5

25
20
20
16

In Eq. (9-35) ; '" < 1 is the strength coefficient lor the welded element; (0' ) is
the permined strength; c "" c, + c2 + c3 are the construction additions in mm; C, = l
is the thickness tolerance addition for a steel plate, but c,

"" 2 for a casted apparatus;

c2 is the addition for corrosion while c2 = 1 for the condenser and evaporator with
single-sided corrosion, but c2

"'"

(1 -3) for an apparatus with double-sided corrosion;

and c3 =(O 1) is the addition for specific construction. The following additional
condition should be satisfied: (s-c)/O < 0,1,
The limited inside shell pressure for known (uJ is :

21"(s - c)

(9-36)

P,= D+( s_c )op

The actual (a) is checked for the hydraulic test pressure Plh = Ph

+ pH,

if H is the

liquid refrigerant height in the condenser. The following criterion sould be satisfied :

a~-,- plh
_~ s

< O,8op

(9-37)

9.3.2. Vertical shell and tube condenser

The open (vertical shell and tube) condenser is applied for large heat capacities
in cases of clean water shortage. A constructional scheme of a vertical shell and
tube condenser is shown in Figure (9 - 8). The condenser consists of a cylindrical
shell with two tube plates welded onto both ends. Pipes are situated and welded
onto the plates which create the heat eXChange surface. The refrigerant condensation
happens outside the pipes. The water flows by gravity with a thin layer inside the pipes,
is made possible by profiled caps situated over every pipe at the top tube plate . Air

Condensers

199

passes through the pipes in counterflow due to density differences, and

cools the

water by evaporative and convective heal !ransvef effects. The open, or closed, water

system with a cooling lower may be used. The following positions, given in Figure
(9-8), complete the description of condenser operation: the refrigerant vapour supply

(1); the refrigerant condenser delivery (2); the water supply (3); the water delivery
(4); the water supply tank (5); the purge valve (6); the safety valve (7); the equilibrium
pipe with the receiver (8): la the air separator (9); the manometer (to); the oil bleeding

(11); the connection to the atmosphere (12); the overflow (13); the water outlet tank
(14): and the water level indicator (15).

1-:: _n-

"

:iln

'+ I I I I I

lrr;:'

51- It

0800 + 1200

---- -----=C='-- --'''i=

IO

~ I~
"X--i

--t-

+"

,,~

DETAIL

~
11

"

Figure (9-8). Constructional scheme of a vertical shell and tube condenser.

Chapter 9

200

The vertical shell and lube condenser has a compact construction with a high
overall heat transfer coefficient k

= (700 - 1000) (W/m2K), qF ::

for a refrigerant temperature difference t:. Tm

""

(4000 - 5000)(W/m2)

(4 6) K, a specific water flow

w;: (0.13 - 0,15) (m'/VYh). and a water temperature difference .6.Tw = (6 - 6,5) K.
If (H) is the height of the vertical heal exchange pipes, (6) is the thickness, (wm )
is the middle velocity of the water layer. and (n) is the pipe number, then the surface
heal transfer coefficients at the refrigerant taR) and water (0'.) side may be obtained
as follows:
all = 0943( Rt
'4
a ", ""

)O,04(~
'1

}.

O,Q1 H ( Go Rr P, )

H(lc-ISR)

J O,25

(9-38)

1 /3

(9-39)

The Reynolds, Prandll, and Galilei numbers are:

Rt

""

4pW

7/lrndi

_v_'lc
Pr-- T ' Go = g H3
a

v'

The parameter properties may be determined for condensing temperature te in

Eq. (938) and for a middle water temperature of the water layer in Eq. (9-39). The
grapho-analytical method for qF determination, explained for horizontal shell and tube
condensers in Figure (9-7), may be applied for vertical shell and tube condensers.
The shell of the condenser as a cylindrical, thinwalled thread construction after
its estimation has to be checked against geometrical wall shape steadiness. The
following influences have to be taken in consideration: self and auxiliary equipment
weight;

water and refrigerant weight; and snow

and

wind influences. because

it is installed outdoors.
If the tube plate diameter (Dp) is equal with the inside shell diameter (D) and
(p) is the estimating pressure, (01) is the permitted bending stress,

(~)

is the strength

coefficient of the tube plate as a pipe grate, c = 2-4 (mm) is the construction addition,
(I) is the pitch of the pipe holes, k = (0.3 - 0,6) is the coefficient. and (z) is the number
of holes in the tube plate for pipe installation, then the tube plate thickness (spJ may
be computed as follows :

sp""-kDvpl.,,or+ 2c
If ""- 1 - z dt

if D < (z + 5) I

(9-40)

Condensers

rp=1- ( z+5)1

, if D >

(Z I

201

+5)I

The following additional condition has to be satisfied:

'p

4,35 de + 15

(9-41)

9.3.3. A multi shell condenser

A multishell condenser consists of equal elements disposed one under another.
The elements are small diameter shell and lube condensers with 3, 7, 14, and 19 pipes
for one pass. The two pass elements have more pipes. Two types of multishell
condensers are applied lor medium and large capacities with serial and water flow
in a parallel connection, as shown in Figures (99, 10).

Figure (99) . A mullishell condenser with a serial connection.

Vapour is supplied in the upper element (1) , but condensate bleeds from the lower
one (2) and is delivered to a receiver (7). The water supply and delivery (3, 4) have
opposite positions. In ammonia refrigeration systems oil is drained from the lower
element (5). Noncondensable gases are evacuated from the highest point of the
condenser (6).
The overall heat transfer coefficient has magnitudes in the range k = (900 .
-1000) (W/m2K) and a specific heat flux qF =. (45006000) (W /m 2) for a temperature

difference 61m = (56)K. The water velocity has a big influence on (k), because the

Chapter 9

202

-7
5

2 --{XI-f-~+

Figure (9-10). A multlshell condenser with a parallel connectJon.

surface heat transfer coefficient for an ammonia system on the water side of the pipes
(awl is smaller than on the refrigerant side (aR).

Heat transfer estimation for a multishell condenser is similar as for a shell and
tube condenser. Some modification may be! introduced for estimating the surface
heat transfer coefficient from the water side (erj. The multishell condenser may be
thought of as a channelled, multipipe heat exchanger. If R.
;. (0,6 - 2500).

z:::

(10 - 5(0)10' and P,

as well as if equivalent diameter deq "" 4 F/P for flow section F and

perimeter P, see Figure (9-11), for all pipe and channel types for water and other liquids

the following equations may be used:

Nu ""

~ a ... == 0,021 R t O,8 p,O,4)

(9-42)

)110,8

a ... :: B ----02
dtq '

(9-43)

B = 0,021 ..I 0.57 P 0,1 co,. ) 'I -0.17

(9-44)

In Figure (9-11), A corresponds to the case of heat transfer only through the
surface of an internal pipe or pipes, but B corresponds to the case of heat transfer
through both surfaces of internal and external pipe/shell. In Eqs . (9-42, 43), (w) is water
velocity, (c) is specific heat, and (11) is dynamic viscosity .

203

Condensers

SHAPE OF CROSSSECTION

EQUI VALE NT
DIAMETER

PRO F ILE

de(m)

~::::~~:::::::~ ~I

2ab
a+b

RECTANGLE

02_d 2
-d-

-z

"

t? ~ >l-o
--1 '% tfI
,-

D-d

.J.
02- nd

-nd
--

~~~
~O~

1-0

"w
"

~
~

,,!

0 _ nd
--O+nd

n-plpe

num~ in the sh.1l

Figure (9-11). The equivalent diameter for special types and channels.

9.3.4. A double pipe condenser

A double pipe condenser, shown in Figure (9 - 12), consists of two pipes and
is shaped as a vertical coil. In the inner pipe water flows from (3-4). The refrigerant
flows through the space between two pipes from (1-2). The lower part of the condenser
may have a function as a subcooler. The condensate is drained into a receiver (A).
In cases when the condensate temperature is lower than that of the surroundings,
the water flows first through the pipes inserted in the receiver. This type of condenser
realizes from one to five sections. It is suitable for condenser heat capacities from
3 to 80 kW. The overall heat transfer coefficient for a counlertlow , double pipe
condenser is k = (900 1100) (W/m2K) and qf = (4500 - GOOO)(W/m 2 ), if the water
velocity is w =(1-2) (m/s) and the temperature difference is t:.Tm = (56) (K).

Chapter 9

204

~::g

II
II

:0
:0

~,..LLn- R - -)
Figure (9 12). A scheme of a double pipe condenser.
Heat transler coefficients and heat transfer surface estimation for a double pipe
condenser is the same as for a murtishell condenser.
9.3.5. Subcoolers
Water or air and regenerative subcooling processes are shown in Figure (913) .
Refrigerant subcooling may be realized in shell and lube, multishell, and double pipe

condensers. But for vertical shell and tube, aircooled, and evaporative condensers
separate subcoolers must be provided.
Surface heat transfer coefficients fr om the w ater I air side of the pipe (tl) and from

the refrigerant side of the pipe (a A). for a liquid - liquid subcooler, may be estimated
as follows :

_ad_O' O'IR
N u-T.- " p rO,H
WO. I

a = B -;u

(9-45)

Condensers

log p

205

parallet ftow

"

~
w,

W,

Po ,To
I'

counterflow

"
W,

~
L

Figure (9-13). log p-i and T-l diagrams of a refrigeration system with subcooling
processes.
The coefficient Bcan be estimated from Eq. (9 - 44). Tables (9-7, 8) may be used
for some cases. The coefficient at for turbulent flow is

0'1 ""

1, but for transient flow

is:

2,5

0.4

"

0,57

0,72

10

0,81

0,88

0,96

1,0

For laminar flow, Re < 2000, the following equation may be applied if Pr",
corresponds to the wall temperature:

a = 0 17.!:.. R O,)) pO,4) (~) 0,25

,

di

Prw

(946)

In a pipe spiral coil subcooler case, the following equation can be used to estimate

.:
a "" { J

!!..
wO,S
+ 1,8R )B(i'2
d '

(947)

206

Chapter 9

Table (9-7)
The magnitudes of B lor water and air in a temperature function

Water
tOe

Air

20

40

60

-50

1400

1820

2200

2500

4,31

-20
3,93

o
3,74

20
3,56

50
3,40

Table (9-8)
The magnitudes of B for liquid refrigerants in a temperature
function
Refrigerant

t C

o
10
20

30

R71?

R12

Rll

2756

715
703
688
671

638
640
641

2814
2872

R744

1430
1349
1326
1314

2
Figure (9-14). Water-cooled and pipe coil regenerative subcoo
lers.

207

Conde nsers

in Figure (9
The flow schemes of water and regenerative subcoolers are shown
the top to the bottom
-14). In the water-cooled subcooler. liquid refrigerant flows from
subcooler, liquid
('2), bul water counterilows from (34). In the regenerative
ant counterflows
refrigerant flows from the top to the bottom (t2), bul vapour refriger
from (5-6).

9.3.6. The operating characteristic of a water-cooled condenser

400

lOO

~
CJ200

\
100

lOJ

JOS

307

309

- T e fKl

",

J13

ser, Dc'" f{T e, TW1 ) '

Figure (9-1S). Operating characteristics for a shell and tube conden
condenser
The operating characteristic determines the functional relation among
water temperaheal capacity (D.) on condensing temperature {Tel and inlet cooling
follows that :
ture T ' or 0, ::: f (T. Tw,). For a water-cooled condenser it
w1

Chapter 9

208

Qc = k F 6. 1m

1"'2 -

(WI

= k F ~,-=-:;:'I,
1"'1

(9-48)

10- - I, - ''''l

(9-49)

Qc= Mw cw( Tc - Tw !) (l -

J
kF/ M
)= / ( T" T"'I )
we",

(9-50)

The operating condenser characteristic is shown in Figure (9-15) lor a system

operating with R22 and a shell and tube condenser with: D = 0,4 m; L "" 2,3 m;
n= 192 pipes; z = 4 passes; and Mw::1 11,13 (kgls).
9.4. Evaporative condensers
9.4.1. A description and characteristics of an evaporative condenser
An evaporative condenser is a combied water air condenser type. Heat transfer

from the condensing refrigerant inside the pipe coif is realized in two steps. First,

it goes from the refrigerant through the pipe wall to the water film, and then from
the water film to the moving air by a combination of heal and

mass transfer. An

evaporative condenser combines the functions of a condenser and a cooling tower

with forced air motion. The water is circulated in a closed circuil by a pump (Pl .
and after being sprayed by spraying nozzles (5) a water film is crealed around the
condenser pipes. The air {Ll forced by a fan (Fl passes in a counterllow through the
water film between the pipes. After it becomes wet by partial water evaporation. it
leaves the latent part of the condenser coil {Col. then flows through a water drip
eliminator (El and a convective part of the condenser coil (Keo)' and flows out of the
condenser as shown in Figure (9-16) . The water from the condenser coil (CO> flows
out freely and collects into the water tank (WT). The spray water flow rate Mw is
many times larger than the evaporation rate, which ensures complete and continuous
wetting of the entire coil surface. the condition for an effective heat transfer and
negligible scale formation. The water system is supplemented by a makeup water
flow rate AMw. The eliminator prevents water from flowing out of the condenser, as
well as scale from depositing on the Ian.
The condenser surface is made from plain or finned, steel or copper tubes.
The optimal air velocity is w "" (3 . 5) (mls). the specific air flow rate is m l = (90- 1BO)
(mJ/kW). the specific water flow rate is mw = (0,05 - 0,1) (mJ/m2) , and the specific

209

Condensers

energy consumption for fan operation is e = (0,Ot8 - 0,026) (kWh I kW) , The overall
heat transfer coefficient is k "" (500 - 700) (W/m2K) and the specific heat flux is qF ""
"" (t4oo - 22OO){W / m2) for a mean temperature difference AT m "" (2 - 3) K.

'I'

'I'

'I'
J

J
)

Co

Mw

Lo

Figure (9-16). A scheme of an evaporative condenser.

9.4.2. A recommendation for an evaporative condenser estimation
The heat transfer suriace (Fe) estimation for design air parameters and known
condenser capacity (Oe) may be estimated from the follOwing equations:

(9-51 I

Chapter 9

210

Fe =

Q,

'"

A/3o/lim

Qc

(9-52)

Af3o(i"nr-iJ)

The Eq. (9-51) corresponds to the heat transfer from the refrigerant to the
pipe internal wall by convection, from the internal to the external wall by thermal
conduction, and from the external wall to the water film by convection. Eq. (9-52)
corresponds to heal transfer from the water film to the air stream by convection
and diHusion with water

evaporation. The actual qF

(W/m~)

which determines the

condition of heat transfer may be obtained from Eqs. (9-51. 52) by an iterative process

or grapho-analytically.
The surface heallransfer coefficient on the refrigerant side for condensation in
horizontal pipes may be estimated as follows:
all.1l ::

21()()

---'''-'C'''-,--=
( T, - Tsi) 0,167 di 0,25
?

QIlI-0,7_ [

~
"

(9-53)

r
0,25
(Tc-Tsi)diJ

(9-54)

0,5 L 0,35
QIl=Mqf

025

(9-55)

di'

Eq. (9-53) may be applied for condensing ammonia, Eq. (9-54) for

condensing

halocarbons, and Eq. (9-55) for condensing all refrigerants. In Eq. (9-55), L is the
total pipe length. M may be taken from Table (9-4).
For heat transfer from the external horizontal pipe wall to the water film, if I is the
length of one pipe, (i) is the number of pipes in parallel rows, d. = 40" the thickness
of the water film is 0,= 1,94Vl'mj(gp'), m w =Mj(21z), wm=mj(p0l)' R.=4 w mo!">200.
N,,=4a..0/A, and P,=II/a, then the coefficient (aJ on the water side may be obtained
as follows :

1 R 0,63 pO,
'"
a ... = 00'5
'-lijt
r
Q .. '::::

(9-56)

9750m~ /3 = 9750 ( ~: )1 / 3

The magnitudes of (p),

0.,),

(II), (}..t).

(9-57)

a=)..!cp. and (c) have to be taken for medium

water temperatures. The condensing temperature for an evaporative condenser is (8-10)K over a wet bulb air temperature.

Condensers

211

"

p,

p,
XI

X2

p'
X

X (kgp/kgv)

Figure (9-16a). An i-x diagram for air Slale change in an evaporative condenser.
The change of air slate in an evaporative condenser is shown in Figure (9-17).
The heat flux (0) from the water film to the counterflow air stream may be divided
into two parts: (0,), which transfers by water diffusion through water surface (FJ; and
(0 2), which transfers by convection through the same surface (F) due to the difference

between the air temperature of water film r = t.....' or Ihe wet bulb air temperature, and
the air temperature of the base air stream t. == t" if I..... is the average water film
temperature. If it is assumed that lewis' coefficient of evaporation iso= p#(kgfm 2 s),

and (cpl is specific heat at constant pressure of wet air, lewis' equation may be
applied for turbulent air flow as follows:

%= cp "" (1,006 + 1,86x ) 10 3

(9-58)

If specific heat (cJ (JlkgK) for vapour is c~ == 1930 and for water is c... = 4187,
then the latent heal r(Jlkg) of the vapour contained in the wet air with temperature
(t.) may be obtained as follows:
r

= ro +

C, I " - Co. I "

= (2500 - 2,257 I...,..

103

(9-59)

Chapter 9

212

The relation alf! in a function of (i".i,) is:

(i" - i,)(KJ/kg)

.10

(J/kgK)

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

990

1022

1055

1088

1105

'125

1140 1150 1170

160

180

The differential heat transfer equation, if x and I are the parameters of the
air from the surroundings, is as follows:

dQ] ==rdMw=or(x"-x)dF

(9-61)

dQ,=a(t"-t)

(9-62)

From the Dation law, if p. and p are partial pressures of vapour in the wet air, it

follows that:

dM.= a(x"-x ) dF=b(p"-p)dF

(9-63)

dQ, = bt(p" - p)dF

(9-64)

From Eqs. (9 60, 61, 62) follows:

dQ ""

0- [

(/" - tl )

+ r (x" - x ) 1dF

(9-65)

From Eq.(9-64) it follows thai the condition for heal convection is (1"10 and
the condition for water evaporation and diffusion is

()(~-xl>O.

or (p"pO. The tempe-

rature t" is a wet bulb temperature equal to the mean water lilm temperature twm =
From Eqs. (9 58, 59, 63, 65) and enthaJpies for the saturated air solution
for the surroundings i, if 1()3 1,86

dQ

x,~

i~

r.

and

is added to Eq. (9 - 65) it follows that:

a !IO' I1,OO6i " + ( 2500 + 1,861 ")x"]-

- !O3[ 1,0061 + (2500+ 1.861)x]- 419fu (,f" -X)I "jdF

(9-6S)

i" == 103 [1,006,,, + (2500 + 1,861" )X "]

(9-67)

Condensers

213

i :;::: 103 [ 1,0061 + (2500 + 1,861)X 1

(9-68)

dQ:: o(i" - i)dF- 4190o (x" -.1.)/ "dF

(9-69)

dQ:: a ( i "- i) dF - iWIJI dMw

(9-70)

The second part of Eq. (9-70) is small so it can be written with a coefficient at
correction (A), if 0= canst., in an integral form as follows :
dQ:::Ao(i"-i)dF

Q=AaPU"-i)F,

The coefficient {1 :: F/F < := 1,5 is a ratio between water film surface (F) and external
condenser surface (F

The coefficient (/3) is a condenser design characteristic. The

coefficient (A) in a function of water temperature is:

'.('G)

10

15

20

25

30

0,99

0,98

0,97

0,96

0,95

35

0,94

The coefficient a may be determined from Eq. (9 58) as

0;::

a/(ai o) = a/Cpo The

surface heat transfer coefficient a from the water film to the air may be determined
for an air stream across a tube bundle with a staggered bank of tubes, if n is the row
number, as follows :
Nu ::: 0,37 R~O,6

(9-7 1)
(9-72)

a :: a , + Gl + (n - 2 ) al

(9-73)

The mass flow rate of evaporated water is :

dlj/=o( x"-x)dF
6 lif = ofJF, ( x" -x )::

...

(9-7 4)

M. ( Xl -Xl)

(9-75)

Chapter 9

214

The make-up water

'oM. . . is 100% larger than IlW tlecause

the air stream blows

water droplets (5 10)%, and because of overflow. The mass flow rate of the circulating
water is Mw :: (30 - 50) (A M..).

The mass flow rate of air

.
MQ

(M.l

blowing through th,a condenser is:

Q,
Qc
i,- i,:: s(i" i,)

:::

(9-76)

The coefficient (s) has the magnitudes s ::: 0,5 for a plain pipe and s = 0.7 for
a finned pipe.
The differential equation for heat transfer from the water film to the air, if
+ 12 ) = to, is:

twm

0,5 (t ,

dQr ::Ao(j" - il )dF=M.di

(9-77)

di

A ~M dF -.-.
Q

/ -

(9-78)

"

Aher the integration of Eqs. (9 - 77, 78), if

0;;;

eonst., it follows that:

(9- 79)

Fe = In l:::
I

~!

(9-80)

I,

From Eqs. (9 - 58, 79, BO) follows:

A{3a

Q<=-,-F,

oa

i2-il

....

In~
I

co

FcAim

(9-81 )

-12

The suriace heallransfer coefficient 0' from the watm film to the air. for air velocity
w "" {3 - 5} (m/s) , has a magnitude in a range

0' :::

(3!5 - 60) (W/m2K).

The condenser heat transfer surface (Fe) is estimated from Eqs. (9-S1, 52). The
solutions of both equations have to be equal. This can be determined by an iterative
process or by a grapho-analytical method. This method yields the design specific heal
flux qr::: kdt",. The condensing temperature Ie and water temperature (t w ,) have
considerable inlluence on (qF)' By increasing (t e ) for 1 K, at a constant air temperature,
the magnitude of (qF) may decrease by 7 (%), with a disproportionately smaller
increase of work consumption for compressor operation. This knowledge may
be used for designing compact condensers.

Condensers

215

The specific heat flux (qF) through the inside pipe surface, and from the reirigerant
to water film for plain pIpe, may be obtained as foll ows:
(9-82)
qfi=k(t,-t ...m) 1

Ie - I"'m

-+i:
aR

(9-83)

di I

A
y

+de-Gw
-

For (a R) the estimation equations are Eqs. (9-53, 54, 55) and for (a...J they are Eqs.
(956, 57) . From Eqs. (9-82, 83) the inside pipe wall temperature (I.) may be
determined for different mean water temperatures tWin' as is shown in Figure (9-17) .
Using the following equation:

diQ,
Fe = -d
- "" I(
I
q~,
e

(9-84)

qfi

for different magnitudes for (t wm )' the surface Fe is estimated and plotted as a function
F~ =

I (qF) in Figure (9- 17). Using Eq. (9-81) in a form:

aQ,

(9-85)

Fe = A P aim = I(!lim)

the surface can be estimated and plotted as a function of I""" or corresponding .o.i m .
The section 01 both curves 0 gives Ihe design magnilude for Fco'

t"

tt tsUOC]

(Iwm)o

Figure (9-17) . A grapho-analytical method lor Fe determination.

twm{OC]

Chapter 9

216

with a stagge red

The pressure drop ap of the air flowing through a tube bundle
obtaine d as follows :
bank of tubes , if (D is the coefficient for local resistance, may be

~
6p: ~ 2

(9-86)

~ :: ( 5,4 + 3,4 n ) Rt-O,U

(9-87)

is w, the {Ow
In Eqs. (9-86, 87) the Reynolds number is A. = Wdj ll, air velocity
kinematic viscosity
numbe r of pipes in a direction of air flow is n, air density is p, and
air temperature in the
is (,,). The magnitudes of (p) and (,,) are determined for mean
conden ser.
9.4.3. An atmospheric conden ser

rate of makeAn atmospheric condenser is an evaporative type with a large flow

water
Excess
natural air circulation, as shown in Figure (9-18).
up waler Wand
m
condenser, due to
overflows . Water evaporation is smaJ!er than in an evaporative
smaller air velocity.

DR

W.tWl

--

DR

C.

w,twm

0
0
0
0
0

~
181
0
0
0

G5'
-"'<
R

- I=-WT

4J

lw

Wd

~A

o tW2

'L

drain

tw,wmu
make-up

-e

j:-WT _

WWd-

Vlmu

Figure (918). A scheme of an atmospheric condenser.

header (BH),
The refrigerant vapour enters into the condenser through a bottom
along the
points
few
a
but refrigerant liquid flows out from an upper header and from

Condensers

217

condenser height and then is conducted to a receiver (A), which makes conditions
for an effective heat transfer. The water is circulated by a pump (P), overflows

distributive reservoir (OR), and flows along condenser coils (C) to a water tank
(WT).

The overall heat transfer coefficient, if refrigerant liquid is bled from several points,
is k "" (750 - 950) (W/m2K), but if it flows out only through the upper header it is k=
'" (250 - 300) (W/m2K). The specific heat flux is qF '" (3000 4750) (W/m2) if k = (750

- 900) and L\lm '" {4 - 5)K.

The connections shown in Figure (9-18) are from the compressor (A), to the
subcooler (8), and the air purge (0). Different water flows are circulating water
make-up water

(W mu "'EW), drained water (Wd=W mu-l::.W), and evaporated

(W),

water(6W).

For the process description in an atmospheric condenser an i -x diagram may be

used in Figure (9-17). The medium water temperature is Iwm"" D,S (l wI +lw2) "" I". The
condenser capacity is

a c ' the heat flux of make-up water is a mu ' the heat flux of drained

water is 0d' and the heat flux 01 air stream is

a. From the heat

balance of the

condenser it follows that:

- i' ) + ~iFmuw2
(/ - I) - 61i', w2
Q~ = QII + Qd . Q"'" '" A1,(i, 2
Approximately Ihe air flow rate is

M. '"

3,25 p.

Dc 10.3 , and the enthalpy difference

is in a range (i2 - i,l = (20 - 40) (kJ/kg) . The temperatures

twl

and t,.,... may be obtained

from the heat balance equation for the mixing point of the flows
as well as from the relations

twm = 0,5 (t

wI

+ t w2 )

and f =

rN - Vol d) and Wmu'

wmfo =

(0.10 - 0.15). as

follows:

(988)
tWill -

IWl=

0,5 SI",

(989)

D,Ss

The heat flux for make-up water

r.W ..)

healing from (t,) 10 (1",2)' as well as

evaporated water (6W) from (t,) to (I..m), is:

(IVu - MVJ(t w-2

tJc
Q" =
'm
w

+ l::. r-i'(r w"J'

mw
(990)

Chapter 9

218

For common cases the second part of Eq.(9 - 90) is irrelevant. From Eqs. (9-89,
90) and relation

f ::

Q... "" c ... W 1 _ O,5~

W"..;W follows;
(9-91)

(lwlIl - Iw )

The air heat flux Q., if (i",) is mean air enthalpy, may be obtained as fallows;

Q. "" M. (;2 - i l ) '" A a f3 F< (i" - im )

(992)

The differential form of Eq , (9 - 92), if (j "" FIFe' is:

Mlldi=Ao ( i "-i)dF

(}
di
dF
M tl
= A(i"-i )

A (} PFe _ 1 i" - i l

t1II

- n-.-,,--.
I
-I:
(993)

The flow rate of evaporated water

!lIN from Eq. (9

- 63) may be obtained as

follows:

The coefficients ({3), (0), and a.have the following ranges: (3 = 2, 0= a.lc p = {1,67- 3.43).10~ (kg/m~s) and a. =(17-35) (W/m 2 K). The condensing temperature is Ie ::; t...r.!+

(2 - 4WC). The mean water temperature may be verified as follows:

Iwm

Q,

= lc - I.r:- ;;: Ie - flIm

<r,

(994)

From the heat balance equation of the condenser. the circulating water flow rate
may be obtained:

. Q, - Qa + CI K.,6, W
W=
Cw( 1W2

:10'1 )

(995)

Condensers

219

From Eqs. (9-91,92,93) lollows :

Qr

""

e(I ..
A a p r"

Q. = AofJF

1m

11 - 1\

."

d,
+.,
C",

1 _ ,0,5

. +Wcw

-II

10. ,- ,--.

,.

e( "
1

- I...

("
)
D,Se / - /..,

(9-96)
(9-97)

'l

The magnitude for condenser capacity Oc obtained from Eqs.(9-96,97) would

be the same as Oc obtained from the following equation :
(I - I
,
Qc = kFccwm'

(9-98)

The condenser surface Fe may be obtained from Eqs.(9-96,98) by an iterative

process or by a grapho-analytical melhod.
9.5. Air-cooled condensers
An air-cooled condenser is widely applied in domestic refrigerators and commercial refrigerating units, as well as in air conditioning systems and industrial refrigerating
plants . The considerable application of a large capacity air-cooled condenser results
from a water deficit in urban centers and environmental protection from thermal and
moisture pollution. AIl air-cooled condenser has two disadvantages: in comparison
to refrigerating machines with other condenser types it operates at higher condensing temperatures with larger work consumption and has a higher sound intensity in
an undesirable range of frequency.
A sketch of an air-cooled condenser is shown in Figure (9- 19). Air-cooled condensers for halocarbon refrigerating machines are commonly constructed as copper
coils in two to six rows, individually finned with aluminium plate fins fastened to
the tube. An air-cooled condenser consists of a condenser coil bank (1), a fan with
protective netting (2), and a condenser casing (3). The refrigerant vapour from the
compressor is supplied (Al through the header (I) , and the refrigerant liquid is bled
(8) trom the header (11).
The overall heat transfer coefficient for a condenser with plain copper tubes,
depending on air velocity, Is k = (20-70) (W/m2K) . For a condenser coil bank with
copper tubes and aluminium plate fins the coefficient is k '" (17-35) (W/m2K) for
a finned surface. For a condenser with a finned surface and natural air circulation
the coefficient is k :::: (8- 14) (W/m2K) . The surface heat transfer coeffiicient on the air

Chapter 9

220

,
I

IH

/
n

a,b

T
==

t,
air

i
=

Figure (9- 19). A sketch of an air-cooled condenser.

(a.) is (40-60) times smaller than (aR) on the refrigerant side. The condenser temperature, if (t l ) and

(~)

are air inlet and outlet temperatures, may be chosen from the

following recommendation; t. "" 0,5 (I, + 12) + (10 - 20) C. The air velocity for small
condenser units is w "" (3-4.5) (m/s). but lor a condenser with a large capacity (Q~

it is w "" (4,510) (m/s) . Air mass flow rate may be obtained from the heat balance
equation as follows :
(9-99)
For a corridor condenser coil bank with plale fins whose thickness is 0 = (0,2
0,5)
(5 ,

mm and

whose pitch between the fins is 5, "" (2-3) mm, if the relative tube pitch

= 52;;' s) is sId. = 2, and fin length in the direction of air flow is L. the suriace

heat transfer coefficient on the air side may be obtained from the following equation:

(9-' 00)
The Reynolds number for the air flow is Re = ad./II, and the equivalent diameter
is:
d _ 2(s-d.)(s,-o,)
cq-(s-d.)+(Sf 6 f )

Condensers

221

From this it follows that

sid, = (0,18 - 0,35), sid, = (2-5),1 = (-40 1040) 'C,

and:
L

n "" 0,45 + 0,0066

m "" -

Ud~

= (4-50), R, = (500-10'),

.,

R,

0,28 + 0,08 1000

R,

C =A (1,36 - 0,24 1000)

Udoq
5
A
0,412

10
0,326

20
0,201

30
0,125

40
0,08

50

0,0475

The finned coefficient, if (F,) is the fin surface and (F.l is the external pipe surface,
has the magnitude FIF. > 10.
The internal condenser surface (F) may be obtained as follows :

F.=~
K t:.lm

The coefficient of lin effectiveness ("") may be obtained as follows:

(9-101)

m = v'2atf3rlf, ~:: J + 0,35 In 23

(9-102)

The magnitude of (0), estimated fr om Eq.(9-100), for a staggered coil bank is

10(%) larger than lor a corridor coil bank.
The surface heat transfer coefficient on the refrigerant side for halocarbons and
for ammonia may be estimated from the following formulas:

(9- 103)

OR

z::

,_ 100 ( I.

- I,

)-0.167 d ,-O.l'i

(9-104)