Design of thin Flat Tube sheet design (with edge Knuckle) for Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers

[DK44]

1. By what code rules a thin flat Tube Sheets (with edge knuckle)for Shell & Tube Heat Exchangers be designed considering Tubes acting as stays.

2. Is ASME Sec VIII div 1 UHX applicable for such Tube Sheets.

3. Can the thickness be calculated by ASME Sec I PG 46 as a supplement to Sec VIII Div 1. What additional code rules will apply for such Tube sheets.

 

[SnTMan]

DK44, 1, per my rudimentary understanding of Part UHX, the stiffnesses of the various components (integral cylinders, tubes, tubesheets) are considered. Exact details of attachment of integral cylinders to tubesheets are generally not within the scope of Part UHX. Therefore:

1. Part UXH - The resulting tubesheet may or may not be considered "thin". Additionally if TEMA rules apply, there are restrictions on the minimum tubesheet thickness. Note that language that formerly appeared in Part UW-13(e) concerning whether tubesheets are "supported" or not was removed a number of years ago.
2. Yes, assuming the design meets the conditions of applicability.
3. Where applicable rules exist in Sec VIII, Div 1 they must be followed. I'd say Sec I, or other alternative calculation methods would not be allowed, assuming the design meets the conditions of applicability of Sec VIII, Div. 1 rules.

Regards,

Mike

The problem with sloppy work is that the supply FAR EXCEEDS the demand