Calculates film condensation heat transfer coefficient on a vertical plate using the Nusselt correlation: h = 0.943(ρ²gλk³/μLΔT)^(1/4). Film condensation h is 5–50 kW/(m²K) for steam — dropwise condensation (occurring on hydrophobic surfaces) is 5–10× higher due to absence of insulating liquid film.
Inputs
Rho L Kg M3
Mass per unit volume (kg/m³). Water: 1,000. Air: 1.225. Steel: 7,850. Affects buoyancy, flow, and structural loads.
Rho V Kg M3
Mass per unit volume (kg/m³). Water: 1,000. Air: 1.225. Steel: 7,850. Affects buoyancy, flow, and structural loads.
Mu L Pa S
Fluid resistance to flow. Water at 20°C: ~1 cP. Honey: 2,000–10,000 cP. Higher viscosity increases pumping power requirements.
K L W Mk
How easily heat flows through the material (W/m·K). Metals are high; insulation materials are very low.
H Fg J Kg
Reference formula or conversion factor shown for context.
L M
Vertical measurement. For health calculators, typically standing height without shoes.
Delta T K
Reference formula or conversion factor shown for context.
Results
average heat transfer coefficient h̄ (W/m²K)
Thermal energy moving from hot to cold. Rate depends on temperature difference, conductivity, and geometry (Fourier's Law for conduction; Newton's Law of Cooling for convection).
heat flux q (W/m²)
The value at the specified point or condition.
Nusselt film condensation: h = 0.943[ρl(ρl−ρv)g·h_fg·k³/(μ·ΔT·L)]^0.25
The value at the specified point or condition.
condensation regime
The operating regime — the mode or zone in which the system is currently operating.