Comparison of Pressure Losses of Clean and Deposit-covered Heat Exchange Surfaces of a Natural Gas Cooler

Abstract

This article discusses the pressure losses which occur on the outer and inner heat transfer surface area of natural gas coolers. An analytical method is used to determine the pressure loss on the outside of the heat transfer surface area and the development of this loss is presented depending on the thickness of coating (dirt) deposited on the fins of the heat exchange surfaces. The pressure loss inside the cooling tubes from the layer of deposition is expressed specifically as friction loss, especially the loss of local resistance and collective pressure loss. The results include an assessment of the impact of the deposited impurities on the compression work and for providing the required cooling performance.