Design and Construction of a Spiral Heat Exchanger

Abstract

In this article, the performance and applications of a Spiral Plate Heat Exchanger are demonstrated. Also, governing equation of heat transfer phenomena in such heat exchangers is discussed. Regarding the governing equations, a LAB-sized model of this type of heat exchanger was designed and constructed. Galvanized Iron sheets were used as the heat transfer surfaces. Two Galvanized Iron sheets were rolled together around a central core and, as a result, two separated channels were made. Also, a predesign simulation of the heat exchanger was done using the Fluent software to predict the performance of the heat exchanger. First the geometry was made using Gambit software environment then the model was analyzed through Fluent. Because of less fouling, easier cleaning and high heat transfer coefficient, Spiral Heat Exchanger is a good alternative to the other types of heat exchangers, especially when it’s going to handle high fouling flows or highly viscous fluids. Low fouling rate of the heat exchanger, reduces the need of cleaning and therefore the out of service will be decreased. In the constructed heat exchanger, Nusselt number increases as the mass flow rate increases. Average Nusselt number is about 100 that is very good.