Abstract: An improved method of heat transfer between a first substantially homogenous fluid passing through the inside of a heat exchange tube, and a second fluid on the outside of the heat exchange tube includes the step of passing the first fluid through a compound turbulator inside the tube. The compound turbulator includes a twisted strip surrounded by a helical coil that is closely spaced from the walls of the tube. Passing the first fluid over the compound turbulator generates a high level of turbulence in the first fluid in the region adjacent the tube wall, facilitating heat transfer to the second fluid on the outside of the heat exchange tube. The augmentation of heat transfer to the second fluid can also be accomplished through the use of a helical coil installed on the outside of the tube.

Abstract: An electrode assembly for an electrode boiler employing electric current flow between spaced electrode assemblies immersed in an electrically conductive fluid in a boiler vessel for raising the temperature of the fluid includes an upright electrode member having an internal flow passage terminating in outlet slots in the outer peripheral surface of the bottom portion of the electrode member. The conductive fluid is pumped under pressure through the internal passage and exits through the slots into contact with fluid guide vanes on the electrode member and surrounding the bottom portion thereof. The guide vanes, which may be cupped-shaped or curved, are arranged in the path of the fluid exiting the outlet slots and create fluid circulation adjacent to outer peripheral surface of the electrode member to remove steam bubbles therefrom for the prevention of detrimental arcing.