Understanding Two-Pass Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

In summary, a shell and tube heat exchanger is used for heating and has a single shell with two tube passes. There are 70 tubes with a diameter of 25mm and a length of 6m each. The tubes are arranged in a U-turn configuration, resulting in a total of 140 tubes in the heat exchanger. This is known as a two-pass heat exchanger, where the working fluid passes through the exchanger twice. This design increases the effective area for the two fluids to interact.
  • #1
Janiceleong26
276
4

Homework Statement


'A shell and tube exchanger is used to do heating, with single shell and 2 tube passes. There are 70 tubes each with an outside diameter of 25mm and length of each tube pass is 6m. '

I am wondering whether the 70 tubes are in between the 2 tube passes, or is it 1 tube pass contains 70 tubes?

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
Its one huge shell that looks like a capsule with 70 tubes inside. But if u cut that capsule shell in middle, those 70 tubes would pass twice the cut.
 
  • #3
I see. Meaning there will be a total of 140 tubes in the heat exchanger? But wouldn't that be 140 tube passes? I'm confused as to what is the difference between 'tube pass' and 'tube'
 
  • #4
A two pass heat exchanger has two sets of tubes . Working fluid first goes through one set of tubes then does a U turn and comes back through the other set of tubes . So the working fluid passes through the heat exchanger twice . Hence the description two pass .
 
  • #5
Nidum said:
A two pass heat exchanger has two sets of tubes . Working fluid first goes through one set of tubes then does a U turn and comes back through the other set of tubes . So the working fluid passes through the heat exchanger twice . Hence the description two pass .
Ok got it. Thanks!
 
  • #6
Janiceleong26 said:
I see. Meaning there will be a total of 140 tubes in the heat exchanger? But wouldn't that be 140 tube passes? I'm confused as to what is the difference between 'tube pass' and 'tube'
U r correct if u cut the capsule shell u will see 140 tubes. The configuration is as what Nidum said, it makes a U turn. This is to increase effective area in which the two fluids interect.
Nidum said:
A two pass heat exchanger has two sets of tubes . Working fluid first goes through one set of tubes then does a U turn and comes back through the other set of tubes . So the working fluid passes through the heat exchanger twice . Hence the description two pass .
 

FAQ: Understanding Two-Pass Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

What is a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger?

A Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger is a type of heat exchanger that consists of a shell (a large pressure vessel) with a bundle of tubes inside. One fluid flows through the tubes and the other fluid flows around the tubes, allowing for heat transfer between the two fluids.

How does a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger work?

In a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger, one fluid flows through the tubes while the other fluid flows around the tubes. The two fluids are kept separate by the tube walls, but heat is transferred between them through conduction. The hot fluid heats up the tube walls, which then transfers the heat to the cooler fluid flowing around the tubes.

What are the advantages of using a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger?

There are several advantages to using a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger. First, they are highly efficient at transferring heat between two fluids. They are also compact in size and can handle a wide range of temperature and pressure conditions. Additionally, they are easy to maintain and can be used for a variety of applications.

What are the different types of Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers?

There are three main types of Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers: fixed tube sheet, U-tube, and floating head. In a fixed tube sheet heat exchanger, the tube sheets are welded to the shell, while in a U-tube heat exchanger, the tubes are bent into a U-shape. A floating head heat exchanger has a tube bundle that can move or expand within the shell to prevent thermal stress.

What factors should be considered when selecting a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger?

When selecting a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger, several factors should be considered, including the fluids being used, the desired temperature and pressure conditions, the flow rate, and the space available for installation. It is also important to consider the material of construction, as it should be compatible with the fluids and conditions. Additionally, the cost and maintenance requirements should also be taken into account.

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