Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient Calculator

Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient Formula:

\[ h_s = J_h \times Re \times (Pr^{0.333}) \times \left(\frac{k_f}{d_e}\right) \times \left(\frac{\mu}{\mu_W}\right)^{0.14} \]

Heat Transfer Factor (Jh):

Reynold Number for Fluid (Re):

Prandlt Number for Fluid (Pr):

Thermal Conductivity in Heat Exchanger (kf):

W/m·K

Equivalent Diameter in Heat Exchanger (de):

Fluid Viscosity at Average Temperature (μ):

Pa·s

Fluid Viscosity at Tube Wall Temperature (μW):

Pa·s

Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient (hs):

W/m²·K

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1. What is Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient?

The Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient is a measure of the heat transfer efficiency for fluids flowing on the shell side of a heat exchanger. It quantifies how effectively heat is transferred between the shell-side fluid and the tube walls.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient formula:

\[ h_s = J_h \times Re \times (Pr^{0.333}) \times \left(\frac{k_f}{d_e}\right) \times \left(\frac{\mu}{\mu_W}\right)^{0.14} \]

Where:

\( J_h \) — Heat Transfer Factor (dimensionless)
\( Re \) — Reynold Number for Fluid (dimensionless)
\( Pr \) — Prandlt Number for Fluid (dimensionless)
\( k_f \) — Thermal Conductivity in Heat Exchanger (W/m·K)
\( d_e \) — Equivalent Diameter in Heat Exchanger (m)
\( \mu \) — Fluid Viscosity at Average Temperature (Pa·s)
\( \mu_W \) — Fluid Viscosity at Tube Wall Temperature (Pa·s)

Explanation: This equation accounts for fluid properties, flow characteristics, and geometric factors to determine the heat transfer coefficient on the shell side of a heat exchanger.

3. Importance of Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient

Details: Accurate calculation of shell side heat transfer coefficient is crucial for designing efficient heat exchangers, optimizing thermal performance, and ensuring proper heat transfer between fluids in industrial processes.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all required parameters with appropriate units. Ensure all values are positive and within reasonable ranges for accurate results.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for Shell Side Heat Transfer Coefficient?
A: The values typically range from 500 to 5000 W/m²·K, depending on the fluid properties and flow conditions.

Q2: How does fluid viscosity affect the heat transfer coefficient?
A: Higher viscosity generally reduces the heat transfer coefficient as it creates thicker boundary layers and reduces convective heat transfer.

Q3: What is the significance of the equivalent diameter?
A: Equivalent diameter accounts for non-circular flow paths and represents the characteristic length scale for heat transfer calculations.

Q4: When is this calculation most applicable?
A: This calculation is particularly useful for shell-and-tube heat exchangers where fluid flows on the shell side around the tubes.

Q5: Are there limitations to this equation?
A: The equation assumes fully developed turbulent flow and may need adjustments for laminar flow or extreme temperature variations.