Porous nucleate boiling surface for heat transfer tubes - comprises plated layer of organic foam material with graphite coating

摘要

A porous nucleate boiling surface is provided by applying a layer of open cell reticulated organic foam material having an adherent coating of conductive graphite to the surface of the member. The exposed coated surfaces and the exposed metal member surfaces which underlies the foam material are electroplated so as to form a reticulated metal surface having open cells which overlies the member surface and is firmly adhered to it. Used for heat transfer tubes. The improved heat transfer surface produces a very high density of nucleation sites at relatively low cost without affecting the properties of the base tube.