Air cooled heat exchanger design

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the design of air-cooled heat exchangers, emphasizing the importance of calculating fluid properties and flow conditions. Key steps include determining the outlet temperature of the fluid, volumetric flow rate, and selecting an appropriate heat exchanger design, akin to a car radiator. The conversation highlights that heat exchange correlations depend significantly on the design and flow behavior of the heat exchanger. Essential considerations include the target cooling temperature, air stream mean temperature, and potential corrosion issues affecting material selection.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of heat exchanger design principles
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics and properties
  • Familiarity with heat exchange correlations
  • Basic concepts of thermal management in engineering
NEXT STEPS
  • Research heat exchanger design methodologies, specifically for air-cooled systems
  • Learn about fluid property calculations and their impact on heat exchanger performance
  • Explore heat transfer correlations relevant to air-cooled heat exchangers
  • Investigate material selection criteria for heat exchangers considering corrosion resistance
USEFUL FOR

Engineers and designers involved in thermal management, HVAC professionals, and anyone tasked with optimizing air-cooled heat exchanger performance.

becknise
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Hi I'm designing an air cooled heat exchanger but I'm not sure why calculations i need to do. Can anyone pls help on the steps needed to calculate or a template i can follow. I have the properties/details of the hot fluid but missng the air outlet temp and the velocity.

Thanks
 
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Fluid velocity is dependent on flow area - but you should have an idea as to the volumetric flow rate. The outlet temperature of the fluid can also be assumed or calcualted.

You need to obtain all the fluid properties and flow conditions first and then assume whatever you need to know.

Then decide on a HE design which in your case is basically a car radiator - ie fins/tubes etc

You will find that the heat exchange correlations are very much dependent on the HE design and flow behaviour etc.

So ask yourself

- what temperature do I need to cool this fluid down to?
- what is the flow rate of the hot fluid?
- What is the mean temperature of the air stream used?
- any corrosion issues that limit material slection and/or HE design etc
- design redundancy and cost etc

have fun
 

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