Expansion joint need 1

[asv80]

What is the criteria to decide if an expansion joint is required or not in a shell and tube exchanger? What values of mean metal temperatures are considerd the limiting values for the need for expansion joint? If this is available in a code, could you give the reference.
Thanks in advance,
ASV80

 

[Goahead]

Running a Google search for "expansion joint heat exchanger" returns a few software design programs that take into account code requirements. You may found the answer to your question by checking your design against those contemplated in the proposed design aids.

http://www.welding-advisers.com/

 

[Christine74]

I don't have that much experience with Sect. VIII-1 part UHX yet, but when I was using TEMA to run these calculations my rule of thumb was that once the tubes grow 3/16" or more longer than the shell grows (using mean metal temps), you will very likely need an expansion joint for the exchanger.

 

[asv80]

Thanks for your information.
ASV80

 

[pve5]

Expansion joints are employed for fixed tubesheet exchanger. Standard guide line to use expanssion joint is when temperature differentials exceed 50 degree F.