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ISSN Online: 2377-424X

International Heat Transfer Conference 12
August, 18-23, 2002, Grenoble, France

Flow-induced vibration and noise in heat exchanger tube bundles

Get access (open in a dialog) DOI: 10.1615/IHTC12.3150
12 pages

Sinopsis

The flow outside and between heat exchanger tubes may cause excessive tube vibration or may generate unacceptable noise levels. Tube vibration can be a significant problem because, in extreme cases, tube damage may occur after only hours of operation. Alternatively, in a high integrity heat exchanger persistent low levels of vibration may cause tubes to become damaged, after many years of operation, thus reducing the expected life of the plant. This paper provides a review of noise and vibration issues that the designer and operator need to know if problems are to be avoided. It is shown that the starting point in any assessment should be the definition of a suitable level of structural integrity. In particular, a method is described, for assessing a heat exchanger for tube vibration, due to fluidelastic instability (the most severe mechanism). In addition, an approach is given for managing tube supports during design so that loose, and consequently ineffective supports, can be avoided. Checklists of potential problems and good working practice are also given.