A Comprehensive Study of Heat Exchangers with Experimental Investigation of a Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger

Abstract

Heat exchangers are critical components in thermal engineering systems used to transfer heat between fluids without mixing them. They are widely applied in power plants, chemical processing industries, refrigeration systems, and automotive applications. The efficiency of these systems depends largely on the design and performance of heat exchangers. This research paper presents a comprehensive review of heat exchangers including classification, working principles, design methods, and industrial applications. Additionally, an experimental study of a shell and tube heat exchanger is conducted to evaluate heat transfer performance under varying flow conditions. The experimental results are analyzed using the Log Mean Temperature Difference (LMTD) method and the effectiveness-NTU approach. The results demonstrate that heat transfer rate increases with an increase in flow rate and temperature difference. The study highlights the importance of proper design and operation of heat exchangers for improved energy efficiency.