An electrode configuration for use in association with a heat transfer member
provided in a thermal energy transfer system. Separate multiple electrical conductors
are each received on a respective first surface alteration. Each of the multiple
conductors is connected to a different terminal of a multiphase alternating power
source so that an electric traveling wave moves in a longitudinal direction of
the heat transfer member so as to induce pumping of at least the liquid phase in
the longitudinal direction to thereby enhance the thermal energy transfer characteristics
of the thermal energy transfer system. In a preferred embodiment, the aforementioned
heat transfer members are provided inside of an outer conduit.