Helical Coil Heat Exchanger Calculation

Heat Transfer Equation:

\[ Q = U \times A \times \Delta T_{lm} \]

Overall Heat Transfer Coefficient (U):

W/m²·K

Heat Transfer Area (A):

m²

Log Mean Temperature Difference (ΔT_lm):

Heat Transfer Rate (Q):

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1. What is a Helical Coil Heat Exchanger?

A helical coil heat exchanger consists of a coiled tube configuration that provides a compact heat transfer surface. The helical shape enhances heat transfer by creating secondary flow patterns and increasing turbulence, making it more efficient than straight tube exchangers in many applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental heat transfer equation:

\[ Q = U \times A \times \Delta T_{lm} \]

Where:

\( Q \) — Heat transfer rate (W)
\( U \) — Overall heat transfer coefficient (W/m²·K)
\( A \) — Heat transfer area (m²)
\( \Delta T_{lm} \) — Log mean temperature difference (K)

Explanation: The equation calculates the rate of heat transfer based on the temperature difference between the fluids, the heat transfer surface area, and the overall heat transfer coefficient that accounts for all thermal resistances.

3. Importance of Heat Transfer Calculation

Details: Accurate heat transfer calculations are essential for designing efficient heat exchangers, predicting performance, and ensuring proper sizing for industrial applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the overall heat transfer coefficient (U) in W/m²·K, heat transfer area (A) in m², and log mean temperature difference (ΔT_lm) in K. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are typical U values for helical coil exchangers?
A: U values typically range from 300-1200 W/m²·K for liquid-liquid systems, depending on fluids and flow conditions.

Q2: How is log mean temperature difference calculated?
A: ΔT_lm = [(ΔT₁ - ΔT₂)] / [ln(ΔT₁/ΔT₂)], where ΔT₁ and ΔT₂ are the temperature differences at each end.

Q3: What are advantages of helical coil designs?
A: Compact size, enhanced heat transfer due to secondary flows, better accommodation of thermal expansion, and reduced fouling.

Q4: When should I use this type of heat exchanger?
A: Ideal for applications with space constraints, viscous fluids, or when enhanced heat transfer is needed in a compact design.

Q5: How does flow arrangement affect calculations?
A: Counter-current flow typically provides the highest ΔT_lm, while co-current flow gives the lowest. Cross-flow requires a correction factor.