Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger 2

[VarunSama]

In Richardson & Coulson Vol 6, It is mentioned that in case of horizontal condensers if a single segmental baffle is being used in a horizontal position it will restrict the condensate flow,and by rotating the baffle by 90 degrees problem can be solved. Can anyone explain that why this problem would arise and the solution for the same..?

 

[Latexman]

It applies to condensing in the shell side, not in tubes. If the segmental cut is horizontal, the baffle acts as a weir. If vertical, it does not.

Good luck,
Latexman

 

[25362]

Latexman is right.

For shell side condensation, the baffle cut (segmental baffles) is vertical to allow the condensate to flow towards the outlet without significant liquid holdup by the baffle.

 

[25362]

I forgot to add that to allow for liquid drainage, sometimes a small portion (window) is removed at the bottom of the vertical baffle.

 

[smCHe]

most of the horizontal condensers I know don't have baffles, they have support plates as 25362 says to drain liquid, some are also slopped if E type. I would go with J type as its simpler to operate

 

[Latexman]

smCHe, that must be the local unit/company custom you are in, because I don't think I've ever seen a shell and tube heat exchanger without baffles, no matter what the orientation is, and I've seen hundreds of them.

Good luck,
Latexman

 

[25362]

Whether support plates can be called baffles is ,IMHO, a moot point.
In particular when referring to condensers of the TEMA J and TEMA X shells, operating under vacuum with minimum pressure drops.