A Shell and tube condenser is a common type of refrigeration system. Its structure and heat transfer coefficient make it a versatile heating and cooling component. Learn about the structure and application of this device in this article. In this article, you will learn about the basic functions of a shell and tube condenser. The benefits of a shell and tube condenser are discussed. If you are unfamiliar with this system, read this article to learn about its advantages.
Fluid flow in a shell and tube condenser
A shell and tube condenser consists of a heat exchanger containing tubes. The tubes are installed in the shell, which is cylindrical in shape. A tube bundle is made up of tubes, baffles, tie rods, and other elements. A TEMA Standard covers tube exchangers. A fixed header is also used in the shell. This unit can be divided into two types: the U-Tube and the Fixed Tubesheet types.
A shell and tube condenser works by transferring heat by passing one fluid through a cold one without mixing them. One fluid flows through the inlet nozzle, while the other flows through the shell's outer tubes. The exposed surface area and number of thermally conductive metal tubes determine the amount of heat transfer. Fluid flow in a Shell and tube condenser can be either crossflow or parallel.
Structure of a shell and tube condenser
The structure of a shell and tube condensers consists of tubes and a sheet of metal called a tubesheet. The tubes are held in place by the tubesheet, which is either welded or expanded to take the tubes. The sheet prevents fluid from mixing on the shell side of the condenser and is typically made of one round plate with holes drilled in it. The tubesheet is then fastened to a bolt circle.
The tube sheet must be thermally conductive to effectively transfer heat from the hot to cold side of the device. The material of the tubes must be compatible with the fluids in the shell and the tube side to minimize deterioration. It is best to select a material with a high thermal conductivity, which allows the tubes to expand without distorting. This ensures optimum performance. But when it comes to the actual structure, shell and tube condensers are not as efficient as their counterparts.
Heat transfer coefficient of a shell and tube condenser
The heat transfer coefficient of a shell and tube condec nser depends on several factors, including the diameter of the outer tube, the flow regime, and the helix angle. The shell-side heat transfer coefficient is proportional to the ratio of the outer tube diameter to the total pressure drop. The shell-side heat transfer coefficient is higher than the air-side value for noncontinuous and continuous baffles.
The overall heat transfer coefficient is calculated by taking into account the flow rates at the inlet and outlet of the tubes. The ratio of the hot side to the cold side influences the convective heat transfer, and the higher the rate of the hot fluid inlet, the higher the Uo value. The highest Uo value of the test was 1466 W/m2/K at 2.16 l/min and 70 degC, which was 15.6% higher than the lowest Uo value of 40 degC.
Applications of a shell and tube condenser
A shell and tube condenser is a type of heat exchanger that has multiple components. The tubes, called tubes, are inserted into holes in the shell and are connected to one another through tubesheets. The tube sheet is made of a metal plate and is generally round in shape. However, different sizes are available and can be shaped in various ways. The shell can be either straight or U-shaped.
Shell and tube condensers have a removable head that can be removed for cleaning. The F-type shell is the most common type. F-type shells are generally used when frequent head removal is required. The removable cover channel is welded and flanged. Performing mechanical cleaning on a tubesheet is difficult due to the presence of expansion bellows. If mechanical cleaning is required, a U-tube unit is a good choice.