Saturated pool film boiling of cryogenic fluids: Review of databases, assessment of existing models and correlations, and development of new universal correlation

Abstract

The present study is motivated by the absence of a comprehensive pool film boiling database for cryogenic fluids. Amassing such a database is deemed essential for the thorough evaluation of existing models and correlations, simultaneously laying the groundwork for the development of new advanced predictive methodologies. To address this research gap, a Consolidated Cryogenic Pool Film Boiling Database was meticulously compiled, encompassing 1,209 data points for heat transfer coefficient (HTC) from flat surfaces across various orientations, from horizontal (θ = 0°) to vertical (θ = 90°). The exhaustive database enabled a comprehensive evaluation of prior models and correlations, revealing significant errors, particularly for elevated superheat conditions. In response, a finely tuned universal correlation for all cryogenic fluids is proposed, surpassing the predictive capabilities of its predecessors. The inclusion of a radiation term in the correlation contributes to its superior performance, especially in scenarios involving elevated temperatures, resulting in a Mean Absolute Error (MAE) of 12.94 % for the entire database, with 91.07 % of predictions falling within ±30 % of the data, and 98.92 % within ±50 %. Furthermore, outstanding performance is realized for specific orientations, with MAEs of 15.47 %, 7.92 %, 3.78 %, and 11.59 % for orientations θ = 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, respectively. This achievement situates the new correlation as a robust tool for thermal design and performance assessment across a diverse spectrum of devices and systems, also marking a significant advancement in understanding of cryogenic pool film boiling heat transfer phenomena.