HEAT EXCHANGER OPTIMIZATION
HEAT EXCHANGER OPTIMIZATION
(OP)
I want to reach highest temperatures in an existing shell & tube heat exchanger with minimal modifications.
Actual situation:
Heating a fuel mass M to 300°C in the tube side of a shell & tube heat exchanger.
Objective:
Heat the fuel mass M to 350°C in the same heat exchanger.
Restrictions:
When over heat the fuel, it forms coke. The experience with this fuel says that the coke forms when fouling.
I am thinking in the possibility to use static mixers, to promote heat transfer and avoid fouling.
Can anyone suggest some other ways to explore?
Does anybody have some similar experience?
Can anyone let me know if static mixers can work? Some companies that make static mixers to promote heat transfer? If possible, could I get a phone number and/or website address?
Any help is welcome.
Actual situation:
Heating a fuel mass M to 300°C in the tube side of a shell & tube heat exchanger.
Objective:
Heat the fuel mass M to 350°C in the same heat exchanger.
Restrictions:
When over heat the fuel, it forms coke. The experience with this fuel says that the coke forms when fouling.
I am thinking in the possibility to use static mixers, to promote heat transfer and avoid fouling.
Can anyone suggest some other ways to explore?
Does anybody have some similar experience?
Can anyone let me know if static mixers can work? Some companies that make static mixers to promote heat transfer? If possible, could I get a phone number and/or website address?
Any help is welcome.





RE: HEAT EXCHANGER OPTIMIZATION
I have good experience with coking causes,try to do the following:
1.Avoid coking temperatures,operate below 350 C
2.Increase velocity ,this reduces residence time
3. You can use coke dispersants and supresants..Nalco/Exxon
4.If it is economic, have SS316 tubes,
are one supplier(Use is 50-100 ppm )
coking cannot be stopped ,it can only be delayed
A good source on coking problems is the National Petroleum Refiners Association Question & Answer forum(www.npraqanda.com)
Static mixers could be part of the solution ,but not all the solution..go to the suppliers catalogue at (www.askache.com )..to find what they suggest
Regards,
whylie,
wayil@hotmail.com