Experiments on Integral and Local Crystallization Fouling Resistances in a Double-Pipe Heat Exchanger With Wire Matrix Inserts

Experiments on Integral and Local Crystallization Fouling Resistances in a Double-Pipe Heat Exchanger With Wire Matrix Inserts

Type	Journal Article
Author	Robert Goedecke
Author	Peter Drögemüller
URL	http://dx.doi.org/10.1080/01457632.2015.1025005
Volume	0
Issue	0
Pages	1-8
Publication	Heat Transfer Engineering
Date	March 6, 2015
Abstract	Wire matrix inserts are used in a number of applications of tubular heat exchangers to improve tube side heat transfer. They have also been used to suppress fouling in crude oil refining services. Researchers studied whether the changed hydrodynamic and thermal conditions when applying wire matrix inserts have an impact on crystallization fouling compared to the plain tube. The integral fouling resistances between the inserts and the plain tube showed no significant difference, whereas major differences of the local fouling resistances were observed. Compared to the plain tube, the inserts showed an increased heat transfer up to a maximum of 35% but also a significantly increased pressure drop. Fouling on the inserts themselves, which was observed optically, is the possible explanation for this behavior.