Heat Transfer Studies on Condensation Using Heat Pipes

Abstract

This experimental study finds the effect of condensation on the thermal performance of heat pipe. Condensation heat transfer rate, heat transfer coefficient and variation of temperature over the heat pipe are measured at vertical and horizontal position of HP, by varying the steam-to-surface temperature difference. It is found that the condensation heat transfer rate for vertical position of heat pipe with CuO nanofluid is 2.07 times higher than the horizontal position, whereas the increase in heat transfer coefficient is 1.94 times. Using CuO nanofluid instead of deionized water in the heat pipe enhances the heat transfer rate and heat transfer coefficient by 1.25 and 1.42 times respectively for the vertical orientation.