How Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers Work
Posted in Uncategorised, on November 02, 2015 By Admin
There are many different types of heat exchangers currently available, and the shell and tube heat exchanger is one of those options. It is most commonly used in large chemical processes, including in oil refineries, but is certainly not limited to such industries. Due to the fact that it is particularly well suited for high pressure applications, it is ideal for many other industries, as well.
Comprised of a shell or a large pressure vessel, the shell and tube heat exchanger allows one fluid to make its way through the tubes while another fluid flows through the shell in order to transfer heat between the two different fluids. One set of tubes inside the shell and tube heat exchanger is known as the tube bundle. They may be comprised of a variety of different types of tubes.
Understanding the Exchange Process in a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger
The two fluids that flow through the shell and tube heat exchanger will typically begin at different temperatures. One fluid will flow through the tube side while the other fluid will flow outside of the tubes on the shell side. Fluids may be either gases or liquids. In order to ensure that heat is transferred efficiently, the heat transfer area should be large. This makes it possible for any heat waste to be utilized, thus conserving energy.
Heat exchangers may feature only one phase, either gas or liquid, on each side. In this instance, they are known as single-phase or one-phase heat exchangers. In a two-phase heat exchanger, a liquid can be heated to the point that it is boiled into a gas or it may be used for the purpose of cooling a vapor so that it can then be condensed into a liquid. Such phase changes typically take place on the shell side of the shell and tube heat exchanger. This type of heat exchanger may be used in a variety of different applications based on the specific needs of that industry. The shell and tube design can also include a variety of variations based on specific industrial needs. For instance, the tubes inside the exchanger may be U-shaped or they may be straight.
