Study of hydrodynamics of the condensation process in heat exchanger devices

Abstract

This article provides insights into the outcomes of developing an experimental device tailored for the condensation of both water and hydrocarbon vapors in a shell-and-tube heat exchanger. The experimental phase involved conducting a series of experiments along the length of the condenser pipe to thoroughly investigate the condensation process. The experimental device facilitated the transition of gas condensate, with a volume of 15 liters, from a liquid state to vapor. Subsequently, the vapor was subjected to condensation within the shell-and-tube experimental heat exchanger. This rigorous experimentation allowed for a detailed examination of the condensation dynamics, providing valuable data on the performance and efficiency of the heat exchange process. The focus on both water and hydrocarbon vapors underscores the versatility of the experimental device, making it applicable to scenarios involving diverse condensable substances. The findings contribute to the understanding of condensation mechanisms in shell-and-tube heat exchangers, offering insights that can be valuable in various industrial applications, including energy production and environmental engineering.