Simulation of condensation on vertical fluted tubes

Heat transfer coefficients on the condensing side of a heat exchanger can be markedly increased by designing the condensing surface to take advantage of surface tension. This is accomplished by using a waved or "fluted" surface. A mathematical model for the prediction of heat transfer coefficients on these surfaces was developed earlier, but the method of solution is poorly understood. In addition, the original model made some approximations which are either not necessary or else not accurate over the entire surface. These problems are alleviated in the modified model. [...]