Selecting a shell-and-tube heat exchanger

Selection starts with inlet and outlet temperatures, flow rates, allowable pressure drop, design pressure and material compatibility for both fluids. Fouling tendency, mechanical cleaning requirements and the maintenance space available on site also influence the shell, tube bundle and connection arrangement.

Application review

  • Define the thermal duty for process heating, cooling, condensing or heat recovery.
  • Select tube, shell, gasket and connection materials for the fluid properties.
  • Plan cleaning method, maintenance frequency and bundle removal space at the design stage.
  • Check operating pressure and temperature against the specified design conditions.

Review the shell-and-tube heat exchanger specifications for standard duties and the double-wall natural gas heaters for gas-heating applications. Share your process data to discuss a suitable configuration.