Simulation of Heat Transfer and Fluid Dynamics Processes in Shell-and-Pipe Heat Exchange Devices with Segmental and Helix Baffles in a Casing

DOI : http://dx.doi.org/10.13005/bbra/2234

Download this article as: 

Increase of heat exchange in shell-and-pipe heat exchange devices allows to decrease cost, dimensions and weight of heat exchange equipment. The main directions in a field of increase of heat exchange are application of surface intensifiers on pipes of a heat exchange devices, in a case there is a need to increase heat exchange of a heat transfer agent inside pipes, and application of various types of baffles, in a case there is a need to increase casing heat exchange. The paper presents the results of the study of increase of heat exchange in a casing by means of segmental and helix baffles; circular baffles were not taken into account, because in that case mechanism of increase of heat exchange is the same with segmental baffles and has the same disadvantages, such as dead zones before and after the baffles. In the study we developed solid state models of heat exchanging devices with segmental and helix baffles created finite-element models, carried out numerical studies of heat exchange and fluid dynamics processes in shell-and-pipe heat exchange devices with segmental and spiral inserted baffles at various flow conditions of a heat transfer agent. Also, values of coefficients of heat transfer, heat flow, flow structure and pressure losses in pipes and casing at various flow conditions are obtained. Application of baffles allows to increase heat flow for a whole range of flow conditions. The biggest effect in absolute values of heat flow is achieved by means of implementation of helix baffles, however, it also leads to the biggest values of hydraulic losses. The main advantage of helix baffles is uniform distribution of a heat transfer agent in a casing and absence of dead zones, which are formed in a case of segmental baffles.

Intensifier; Heat transfer; Simulation; Heat exchange; Flow structure