The effect of streamwise vortices on the frost growth rate in developing laminar channel flows

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

An experimental study is presented to assess the influence of streamwise vortices on frost growth in a steady, developing, laminar channel flow. Using a simple model and scale analysis, frost growth rate (ablimation) data are normalized with respect to temperature, humidity and time. Measurements from baseline experiments in a rectangular channel are found to be accurately correlated using the proposed scaling relation. Upon introducing streamwise vortices in the channel flow, frost growth still follows the scaling relation, but local growth rates were observed to increase by more than 7% in regions where the streamwise vortices induce a surface-normal flow toward the frost surface. Frost thickness measurements, flow visualization, and deposition patterns are used to explain these findings.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3787-3802
Number of pages16
JournalInternational Journal of Heat and Mass Transfer
Volume42
Issue number20
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1999

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Fluid Flow and Transfer Processes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'The effect of streamwise vortices on the frost growth rate in developing laminar channel flows'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this