Numerical simulation of heat transfer in mist flows

A numerical simulation of heat transfer over a row of tubes, in the presence of mist flow, is described. Computations include the solution of the flow field around the tubes, the prediction of the motion of water droplets, and the evaluation of the cooling effect of the water film on the tube surface. The entire analysis is carried out using FENSAP-ICE (Finite Element Navier-Stohes Analysis Package for In-flight icing), a simulation system developed by Newmerical Technologies for icing applications. The numerical model is described, including the Navier-Stokes solution, the water thin film computation, the droplet impingement prediction, and the conjugate heat transfer procedure. The predictions are verified against experimental data for different droplet mass flow rates, showing satisfactory agreement and allowing a useful insight in the physical characteristics of the problem.