Decomposition method for thermal design analysis of vertical straight fins under condensation of quiescent and flowing steam

Abstract

An analytical model is developed for the temperature distribution in vertical rectangular fins, subject to condensation of saturated steam under laminar free or forced convection. Both the thermal conductivity of the fin material and the thermophysical properties involved in the heat transfer process are assumed to be functions of temperature. A generalized analysis is carried out for both convection conditions, based on a decomposition method. An optimization scheme is also presented to facilitate the actual design calculations. The results obtained from the analysis reveal significant variation of fin performance with respect to the design constants under optimum conditions.