Shell and tube heat exchangers can be used in a variety of industries for a number of purposes. The heat exchanger's composition consists of a number of tubes. Some of the tubes contain fluid that is heated or cooled depending on a particular job. A second set of tubes manipulate the first so the exchanger can either give or absorb heat. Shell and tube heat exchangers are usually implemented in high-pressure endeavors.
Heat exchangers are usually composed of fluoropolymers. Fluoropolymers such as PTFE, PFA, FEP, and PVDF are used in a variety of jobs due to their versatile and tenacious nature.
Those in the market for shell and tube heat exchangers need to take a few elements into account before making a purchase. Consider the following:
- The diameter of the tubing can be manipulated by the provider. A main point to consider is the nature of the particular fluids used in the tubes. Smaller-sized tubes will warrant faster cleaning, yet bigger tubes may be less economical and less compact regarding space.
- The thickness of tubes relates to several factors. Corrosion, flow resistance, axial strength, pressure, and availability of spare parts relates to a heat exchanger's tube thickness.
- Heat exchanger cost is influenced by shell diameter and tube length. Clients who are concerned about cost ask for exchangers which provide the longest tube length without compromising its efficiency. The possibility for long tubes may be limited due to space, specific job specifications, and replacement possibilities.
- Corrugation of tubes influences performance. Corrugated, inner tubes allow for increased turbulence of fluids, in turn delivering better performance.
- 'Tube layout' refers to how a heat exchanger's tubes are positioned within the shell. To date, there are four, main layouts to consider: triangular, rotated triangular, square, and rotated square. Triangular tubing facilitates better heat transfer while square tubing allows for a longer period of cleanliness.
- 'Tube pitch' refers to the distance between centers of individual but connected tubes. A general rule states a tube's pitch should not be less than 1.25 times the tube's outer diameter.
- 'Baffles' are used in shell and tube heat exchangers to direct fluid flow across the tube bundle. Baffles prevent the tubes from sagging, and can also prevent them from vibrating. Baffle spacing is important in regards to pressure drop and heat transfer. Baffles spaced closely causes a greater pressure drop, yet placed too far apart may cause cooler spots between them.
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