Characteristic Analysis of Condensate Carry-Over According to the Surface Tensions in the Wet and the Dry Conditions on the Fin Surfaces of Heat Exchangers

Typically, condensate forms as droplets on the fin surfaces and may bridge the space between the fin surfaces. This is due to the dry characteristics inherent to the fin surface. The droplets increase the air-side pressure drop. In the case of high air velocities, these droplets may be blown off the fins and entrained in the air stream. To minimize the formation of condensate droplet, the wet ability of the fins must be improved. The carry-over velocity is affected by fin surface characteristics. To avoid carry-over in the air conditioner having the highest air velocity of 1.5 m/sec, the dynamic contact angle (DCA) should be at least lowly under $60^{\circ}$.