Abstract: This invention provides heat transfer systems and methods of cooling surfaces and heating liquids which employ surfaces including a minimum density of discrete, nucleation sites having a conical cross-section tapering to a minimum predetermined depth. These surfaces are placed in contact with a refrigerant having a preselected boiling point so that the nucleation sites become largely flooded with the refrigerant. The nucleation sites permit nucleate boiling of a refrigerant without a temperature overshoot on the initial ascent. In more preferred variations of this invention, specific site spacing and geometries are employed to contain tiny bubble embryos, which minimize hysteresis and reversal of trend effects.

Abstract: This invention provides heat transfer systems and methods of cooling surfaces and heating liquids which employ surfaces including a minimum density of discrete, nucleation sites having a conical cross-section tapering to a minimum predetermined depth. These surfaces are placed in contact with a refrigerant having a preselected boiling point so that the nucleation sites become largely flooded with the refrigerant. The nucleation sites permit nucleate boiling of a refrigerant without a temperature overshoot on the initial ascent. In more preferred variations of this invention, specific site spacing and geometries are employed to contain tiny bubble embryos, which minimize hysteresis and reversal of trend effects.