Tubular heat exchangers
Tubular heat exchangers are reliable and versatile devices for transferring heat between two media. They consist of a tube bundle inside a shell or between two tube sheets, providing high strength and resistance to pressure. This construction makes them indispensable in processes involving aggressive, contaminated, or high-temperature working media.
Working principle
of a tubular heat exchanger
The working principle of a tubular heat exchanger is based on heat exchange between two media, one flowing inside the tubes and the other outside, in the annular space between the tubes. The flows can move in the same direction (counterflow) or in opposite directions (countercurrent), which influences heat transfer efficiency. Depending on process requirements, turbulence can be created inside the tubes to improve heat exchange or multi-pass tube bundles can be used to increase heat transfer efficiency
How a tubular heat exchanger is designed
The design of a tubular heat exchanger includes tube bundle, front and rear tube sheets, baffles, and nozzles for the inlet and outlet of working media. Depending on operating conditions, different configurations may be used: shell-and-tube or finned heat exchangers. Materials are selected according to the medium requirements—from carbon and stainless steels to high-alloyed alloys. To increase heat transfer, the tubes may have fins or special inserts that create vortex flows.
Cost calculation of a tubular heat exchanger
The cost of a tubular heat exchanger depends on several factors: the operating parameters of the medium (temperature, pressure, aggressiveness), manufacturing material, construction type, and the need for additional treatments (e.g., corrosion protection). Also, the dimensions and power of the heat exchanger are taken into account. Optimal equipment selection not only reduces acquisition costs but also minimizes operational expenses due to high efficiency.
Applications of tubular heat exchangers
Due to their high strength and resistance to pressure, tubular heat exchangers are widely used in the petrochemical, chemical, energy, metallurgy, and food industries, as well as in central heating and air conditioning systems. They are suitable for working with liquid, gaseous, and vaporized media, including aggressive substances and heat transfer fluids with solid contaminants. One of the key advantages of tubular heat exchangers is their ability to effectively work with gases and air. They are used in heat recovery systems, where hot flue gases heat air or other technological liquids, reducing energy losses. In metallurgy and energy industries, such devices are used for waste heat recovery, helping to improve overall efficiency. In ventilation and heating systems, they serve to preheat the intake air with outgoing heat, reducing heating costs. Tubular heat exchangers are also in demand in drying installations and furnaces, where heated air is used to process materials or products. Their design allows them to work effectively even under significant temperature fluctuations and high gas flow speeds, ensuring reliable and durable operation.
Advantages of tubular heat exchangers from Ankor-Teploenergo
We develop and manufacture tubular heat exchangers, ensuring their reliability, efficiency, and compliance with the ISO 9001-2015 standard. For each project, we offer individual engineering solutions tailored to operating conditions. In addition, we provide free energy audits, help select the optimal model, and demonstrate the equipment in operation at client sites.
Before leaving production, each heat exchanger undergoes thorough quality inspection, and the factory warranty confirms its durability and reliability. We always provide prompt technical support. Thanks to an established production and logistics system, deliveries are made promptly, minimizing downtime and allowing for quick integration of the equipment into the technological process.
Examples of finished products
FAQ
Can a tubular heat exchanger be cleaned?
Yes, the tube bundle can be cleaned. Access is provided by removing the covers.
What types of tubular heat exchangers are there?
Tubular heat exchangers are available in shell-and-tube, finned, and air-cooled types.