Shell tube heat exchangers are commonly used in oil refineries and other large chemical processes. In this model, two separated fluids at different temperatures flow through the heat exchanger, one through the tubes (tube side) and the other through the shell around the tubes (shell side). Several design parameters and operating conditions influence the optimal performance of a shell& tube heat exchanger. This model shows the basic principles of setting up a heat exchanger model. It can serve as a starting point for more sophisticated applications involving parameter studies or additional effects like corrosion, thermal stress, and vibration.

Design of the shell and tube heat exchanger is quite complex. The tubes used internally are deliberately of various shapes and design to obtain different outcomes. While a few of the tubes may be plain, others may come finned longitudinally or horizontally. Additionally, the tubes can also be of various materials and thermal conductivity. For instance, Target equipments can be designed from carbon steel, stainless steel, cupronickel, copper or brass.

Functions

Owing to the complex nature of the shell and tube heat exchangers, regular inspection of the equipment is necessary. This can help to assess the thickness of the tube walls that are prone to pitting, erosion and corrosion over time. The status of the whole bundle of tubes may be charted and assessed through a thorough inspection with the help of a device known as Internal Rotary Inspection System that functions via ultra tonic testing and also has a non-destructive nature.

Features

1. Materials we used for Shell : Copper, Carbon steel, stainless Steel sizes up to 20000 mm.
2. Tubes Copper, Brass, Cupro-nickel , Carbon Steels in sizes from 6 mm to 50 mm OD, Stainless Steels.
3. Tube Sheets: Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Brass etc.
4. Channels and Cover : Carbon Steel, Stainless Steel, Case Iron, Brass etc.
5. Gaskets : Rubber, Compressed

Advantages

1. Low investment, operation and maintenance costs.
2. Highly efficient heat transfer (K- values on average 3-5 times higher than in case of bare-tube heat exchangers).
3. Asymmetrical flow gap available for the most cost effective solution.
4. Use of smallest temperature difference.
5. Up to 75% less space required.
6. Self-cleaning effect due to highly turbulent flow behaviour

Applications

1. Air conditioning
2. Processing of natural gas
3. Chemical Plants
4. Petrolium Refining
5. Plastic Machinery
6. Hydralic Power Packs
7. Marine Oil Coolers