Thermal behavior of wet porous and solid fin-Experimental and analytical approach

Thermal performance of both solid and porous fins in wet conditions have been investigated under controlled environment conditions. Experimental results have been compared with the findings of analytical investigations. Good agreement between the two have been noted. The visual observation of dehumidifying phenomenon over a fin inside an environmental chamber identifies four stages which includes larger droplets, very fine droplets, film like region and dry region. The porous fin are found to have a tendency to retain condensate, while the maximum dehumidification occurs at the base of the fin. The efficiency and effectiveness of these wet fins depend on the fin base temperature and psychrometric conditions of the ambient air.