Tubing

Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers

Inside of a shell and tube heat exchanger are tubes which play a crucial role in the overall functionality of the device. These tubes provide a surface where the heat exchange occurs between two fluids. One fluid flows through the tubes (tube-side fluid), and the other flows outside the tubes but inside the shell (shell-side fluid). The tubes can be either straight or U-shaped, depending on the design of the heat exchanger. The material used for the tubes depends on the nature of the fluids and the operating conditions. Common materials include copper, stainless steel, titanium, and other alloys for their excellent thermal conductivity and corrosion resistance. The tube thickness, length, and diameter are also important factors as they directly impact the heat transfer rate, pressure drop, and the overall performance of the heat exchanger. In some designs, fins may be added to the tubes to increase the surface area and improve heat transfer efficiency. It's also worth noting that the tubes are held in place by tube sheets, which separate the shell-side fluid from the tube-side fluid.