FEM application in phase change exchangers

Application of FEM in the analysis of condenser and vaporizer has been illustrated taking into account property variation with temperature. Accurate shell side pressure drop in a condenser has been determined by the present method taking into account the gradual reduction in vapour flow due to condensation from inlet to outlet. As the present method analyses the exchanger in small elements, analysis of an evaporator working under the conditions of partial vapour blanketing is also possible. © 1991 Springer-Verlag.