Basics of shell and tube heat exchanger

A shell and tube heat exchanger is a widely used type of heat exchanger that consists of a series of tubes, one set carrying the hot fluid and the other the cold fluid, to facilitate heat transfer between the two.

Handbook of heat exchangers

Components:

1. Shell: The outer casing that holds the tube bundles and contains the shell-side fluid.

2. Tube Bundle: A collection of tubes arranged in a specific configuration. The tubes are where the heat exchange occurs.

3. Tubes: Usually made of metal (like stainless steel or copper) that transfers heat between the fluids.

4. Tube Sheets: Plates at both ends of the shell that hold the tubes in place and create separate passages for the two fluids.

Heat exchangers design handbook

5. Baffles: Structures placed inside the shell to direct the flow of the shell-side fluid, improving heat transfer and reducing dead zones.

6. End Caps (or Heads): Covers at each end of the shell that provide access for maintenance and fluid entry/exit.

7. Inlet and Outlet Nozzles: Openings on the shell and tube ends that allow the fluids to enter and exit.

Handbook of plate heat exchangers

Working Principle:

1. Fluid Flow: One fluid (hot or cold) flows through the tubes, while the other flows around the tubes in the shell.

2. Heat Transfer: As the hot fluid moves through the tubes, heat is transferred through the tube walls to the cooler fluid in the shell. The rate of heat transfer depends on the temperature difference, the surface area of the tubes, and the heat transfer coefficients of the fluids involved.

3. Counterflow/Parallel Flow: In counterflow designs, the two fluids flow in opposite directions, maximizing the temperature difference and enhancing heat transfer efficiency. In parallel flow designs, both fluids flow in the same direction, which may be less efficient.

Inspection off shell and tube heat exchangers pdf document

4. Baffle Function: The baffles guide the shell-side fluid, increasing turbulence and enhancing heat transfer by disrupting laminar flow patterns.

5. Exit and Cycle: The heated fluid exits the tube side, and the cooled fluid exits the shell side. The process continues in a closed-loop system, maintaining temperature control.

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Applications:

Shell and tube heat exchangers are commonly used in various industries, including power generation, chemical processing, HVAC, and oil refining, due to their efficiency and versatility.