Investigation of Condensate Retention on Horizontal Pin-Fin Tubes Using Water-Propanol Mixture

Condensers are an integral part of air conditioning systems. The thermal efficiency of condensers solely depends on the rate of heat transfer from the cooling medium. Fin tubes are extensively used for heat transfer applications due to their enhanced heat transfer capabilities. Fins provide appreciable drainage because surface tension produces pressure gradients. Much research, contributed by several scientists, has focused on adjusting parameters, such as fin design, flow rates and retention angles. In this study, a setup with an observing hole was used to inspect the influence on retention angle of adjusting the flow rates of the fluid. The increase in retention angle was examined using several velocities and concentration mixtures. Pin-fin tubes were used to obtain coherent results using a photographic method. The experimental setup was designed to monitor the movement of fluid through the apparatus. The velocity was varied using dampers and visibility was enhanced using dyes. Photographs were taken at 20 m/s velocities after every 20 s. and 0.1% concentration and the flooding point observed. The experimental results were verified by standard observation which showed little variation at lower velocity. For water/water-propanol mixtures, a vapor velocity of 12 m/s and concentration ratio of 0.04% was the optimal combination to achieve useful improvement in retention angle. With increase of propanol from 0% to 0.04%, the increase in retention angle was greater compared to 0.04% to 0.1%. For velocities ranging from 0 to 12 m/s, the increase in retention angle was significant. A sharp change was observed for concentration ratios ranging from 0.01% to 0.05% compared to 0.05% to 0.1%.

Influence of ambient temperature on the efficiency of underground spot cooling system

In mine air conditioning systems, the vapour compression refrigeration cycle seems to be currently the most widespread method of artificial cooling. In literature some other methods for cooling a mine are also presented, like using free-cooling in refrigeration systems. Mine workings in Jiu Valley are using the primary and secondary ventilation system for cooling the underground. Today the activities are focused mainly on mine closure as a part of transition to the low carbon economy, and this situation brings new challenges regarding the mine ventilation system, which was designed to meet the needs of a full-scale operation. As a result, locally ambient temperatures can rise, and spot cooling systems can be used, in order to cool the air. Such a system has been considered and calculations have been made to evaluate its thermal efficiency at different ambient temperatures.

Thermal balance of greenhouse complexes of the V generation in the summer period

When growing various crops in greenhouses an important condition for obtaining high yields is compliance with the required parameters of the temperature regime of the air environment. The air conditioning systems currently used in greenhouses of the V generation “Ultra Clima” are equipped with adiabatic panels that cool the air entering the room by evaporation of moisture from their surface. However, in some cases, such systems are not able to support the required values. This is due to the large heat flows entering the greenhouse in the summer. The paper analyzes the temperature balance of the air environment of greenhouses of the V generation, evaluates the main heat flows, determines the operating modes of cooling systems that guarantee sufficient cooling capacity to achieve the required temperatures in the room.

Gradual Technology Development for Ethnic Groups

This chapter presents the application of the concept of gradual technology to improve and increase the productivity of a workshop for the manufacture of handcrafted furniture owned by a cooperative formed by members of the Guarijía ethnic group, located in San Bernardo, Alamos, Sonora. The production process of the rustic furniture called “stool” was systematized and equipment was designed taking into account basic ergonomic aspects. Production sub-processes of the workshop and equipment were improved, including machinery design, purchase of basic technology, adaptation of electric current, water, and air conditioning systems. The basic inputs for manufacturing the furniture, such as wood and cowhide, were studied to determine whether the production of the stool affected the environment. The operating personnel in charge of the cooperative were trained in the use of the equipment and in the visualization of the improved processes.