Types of Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers
Fixed Tube Sheet Heat Exchanger
In this configuration, the tubes are permanently fixed to the tube sheets, which are welded or otherwise secured to the shell.The tube sheets separate the two fluids and ensure that there is no mixing between them.
- Simple design and construction.
- Suitable for applications with high pressures and temperatures.
- Easy to manufacture.
Application of Fixed Tube Sheet Heat Exchanger : Commonly used in oil refineries, petrochemical processes, and other applications where maintenance is not frequently required.
Removable Tube Bundle Heat Exchanger
This design allows the entire tube bundle to be removed from the shell for cleaning and maintenance. The tubes are secured to the tube sheets but can be easily disconnected.
- Facilitates easy maintenance and cleaning of the tube surfaces.
- Allows for inspections and repairs without replacing the entire heat exchanger.
Application of Removable Tube Bundle Heat Exchanger : Widely used in food processing, chemical processing, and any application where frequent cleaning is necessary.
U-Tube Heat Exchanger
In this design, the tubes are bent into a U-shape, allowing the two ends to be attached to a single tube sheet. This configuration allows the tube bundle to expand and contract freely.
- Allows for thermal expansion without causing stress on the tube sheets.
- Easier to clean since the fluid can flow through the U-shaped tubes in either direction.
Application of U-Tube Heat Exchanger : Commonly used in power plants, HVAC systems, and refrigeration applications.
Coil in Tank Heat Exchanger
This configuration features a coiled tube arrangement placed within a tank. One fluid flows through the coils, while another fluid surrounds the coils in the tank.
- Compact design suitable for applications with limited space.
- Efficient heat transfer due to the large surface area of the coils.
Application of Coil in Tank Heat Exchanger : Used in water heaters, food processing, and any application requiring compact heat exchangers.
Double Pipe Heat Exchanger
Comprising two concentric pipes, where one fluid flows through the inner pipe and the other fluid flows through the annular space between the two pipes.
- Simple design and easy to construct.
- Can be configured in either counterflow or parallel flow configurations for improved efficiency.
Application of Double Pipe Heat Exchanger : Often used in smaller applications, laboratory settings, and for heating or cooling small volumes of fluid.