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Why are shell and tube heat exchangers the thermal control heroes of petroleum refineries?
In modern petroleum refineries, equipment that can effectively transfer heat to ensure production efficiency is indispensable, among which shell and tube heat exchangers are the leader. Its unique design and practicality make it the first choice in various chemical engineering and petroleum refining processes. This article will give you an in-depth understanding of the operating principles, design and wide range of applications of shell and tube heat exchangers.
Basic principles of shell and tube heat exchangers
A shell and tube heat exchanger consists of a large pressure vessel (shell) and a set of internal pipes. During the heat exchange process, two fluids flow through the heat exchanger with different starting temperatures. One fluid passes through the inside of the pipe, and the other flows inside the shell, thereby achieving heat transfer. This design makes the heat transfer process more efficient.
Experiments show that increasing the heat exchange area is the key to improving heat exchange efficiency, so a large number of pipes are usually used in design.
Efficient heat transfer design
To transfer heat most efficiently, shell and tube heat exchangers utilize the principles of convection and conduction. The design of the fluid flow direction will also increase the heat transfer coefficient, further improving efficiency. Using cross-baffles to force the shell fluid vertically through the tubes creates a more turbulent flow regime, which is another way to improve heat exchange efficiency.
From material selection to design
When selecting a pipe material, its thermal conductivity, strength and corrosion resistance must be considered. Different operating conditions require different materials to ensure good performance of the heat exchanger under high pressure and temperature. Commonly used materials include stainless steel, copper alloys and various high-temperature resistant materials, which can effectively reduce the risk of leakage and thereby protect the safety of equipment and operators.
Improper material selection can cause pipe leaks, which can cause fluid cross-contamination and pressure loss.
Applications and advantages
Shell and tube heat exchangers are widely used in a variety of fields due to their simple design. Whether it is cooling oil in a power unit or heating pool water, these cases demonstrate its excellent performance. Compared with other types of heat exchangers, shell and tube heat exchangers are also more convenient to maintain and clean.
The cylindrical shell design makes it highly resistant to high pressure applications, which is one of the reasons why it has become a thermal control hero.
Overvoltage protection mechanism
The operation of shell and tube heat exchangers has certain risks, especially when there is a pipe rupture. To prevent dangerous accidents caused by overpressure, rupture discs or exhaust valves are often installed on the housing to protect the equipment and its surroundings.
Future challenges and thoughts
With the advancement of technology, the design and materials of shell and tube heat exchangers are also constantly improving. The challenge in the future will be how to further improve thermal efficiency and safety performance. Today, as the world pays increasing attention to environmental protection and energy-saving trends, innovation in heat exchangers has become increasingly critical.
In the context of increasing energy shortage, how can the development of shell and tube heat exchangers continue to play its irreplaceable importance in future industries?
