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Definition: This calculator estimates the number of tubes that can fit in a heat exchanger bundle with two-pass triangular pitch arrangement based on bundle diameter and tube outer diameter.
Purpose: It helps heat exchanger designers determine the maximum number of tubes that can be accommodated in a given bundle diameter.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula is an empirical correlation that accounts for the triangular pitch arrangement and two-pass configuration of the heat exchanger.
Details: Proper tube count estimation ensures optimal heat transfer area, proper fluid flow distribution, and efficient heat exchanger design.
Tips: Enter the bundle diameter and tube outer diameter in meters. Both values must be > 0.
Q1: What is triangular pitch in heat exchangers?
A: Triangular pitch means tubes are arranged in equilateral triangles, which provides more tubes per area than square pitch.
Q2: Why does the formula have exponent 2.207?
A: The exponent comes from empirical data fitting for two-pass triangular pitch arrangements.
Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but actual tube counts may vary based on tube layout constraints and manufacturing considerations.
Q4: Can this be used for single-pass heat exchangers?
A: No, this formula is specifically for two-pass arrangements. Single-pass would use a different correlation.
Q5: What's the typical range for tube outer diameters?
A: Common tube diameters range from 1/4" (6.35mm) to 2" (50.8mm), but the calculator works with any diameter.