This paper numerically evaluates some of the parameters involved in modelin
g the process of frost formation on flat cold surfaces subject to the flow
of humid air. The model employs one-dimensional transient formulation based
upon the local volume averaging technique. The modeling process was valida
ted by comparison with available experimental data. Numerical experiments w
ere realized to determine the best initial values of the diffusivity, initi
al radius and geometry of the ice crystals. This model was applied to the k
nown case of how of humid air over a single flat cold plate to predict the
frost temperature, density and thickness distribution along the flow direct
ion and also the void fraction. The results were compared with available re
sults in the literature. The model was then extended to solve the case of f
low of humid air between two parallel cold plates for which there are no av
ailable results. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd and IIR. All rights reserved
.