Specifying Design Requirements For Heat Ex Changers

Engineering Encyclopedia
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards
Specifying Design
Requirements for Heat Exchangers
Note: The source of the technical material in this volume is the Professional
Engineering Development Program (PEDP) of Engineering Services.
Warning: The material contained in this document was developed for Saudi
Aramco and is intended for the exclusive use of Saudi Aramco’s
employees. Any material contained in this document which is not already
in the public domain may not be copied, reproduced, sold, given, or
disclosed to third parties, or otherwise used in whole, or in part, without
the written permission of the Vice President, Engineering Services, Saudi
Aramco.
Chapter : Vessels For additional information on this subject, contact

File Reference: MEX21003 J.H. Thomas on 875-2230
Engineering Encyclopedia Vessels
Specifying Design Requirements for Heat Exchangers
CONTENTS PAGE
USE OF SAUDI ARAMCO DESIGN SPECIFICATION SHEETS IN

HEAT EXCHANGER PROCUREMENT.......................................................................... 1
Use of Heat Exchanger Data Sheets................................................................................ 1
Data Sheet for Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers ............................................................ 1
General Procurement Information................................................................................ 4
Section A. Process/Performance Data of One Unit..................................................... 5
Section B. Construction Data of One Shell................................................................. 5
Section C. Miscellaneous ............................................................................................ 6
Data Sheet for Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers................................................................... 7
General Procurement Information................................................................................ 8
Performance Data Section............................................................................................ 8
Design-Materials-Construction Section ....................................................................... 8
EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DESIGN CONDITIONS
FOR TEMA-TYPE AND AIR-COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER
COMPONENTS ............................................................................................................... 10
TEMA-Type Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers ............................................................ 10
Shells and Heads ........................................................................................................ 12
Nozzles....................................................................................................................... 12
Girth Flanges.............................................................................................................. 13
Tubesheets.................................................................................................................. 13
Flat Covers ................................................................................................................. 14
Internal Components .................................................................................................. 14
Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers......................................................................................... 16
Tubes.......................................................................................................................... 17
Tube Fins ................................................................................................................... 17
Tube Bundles ............................................................................................................. 17
Tube Supports ............................................................................................................ 17
Header Boxes ............................................................................................................. 18

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS FOR

SHELL-AND-TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER COMPONENTS........................................ 19
General Dimensional Verification................................................................................. 19
Typical Errors............................................................................................................. 20
Compliance with Saudi Aramco, TEMA, API, and ASME
Requirements ............................................................................................................. 20
Use of Computer Programs ........................................................................................... 20
Verifying Computer Programs ................................................................................... 20
Checking Computer Input Data.................................................................................. 21
Checking Computer Output ....................................................................................... 21
Heat Exchanger Components ........................................................................................ 22
Girth Flanges.............................................................................................................. 22
Overall ASME Flange Design Procedure .................................................................. 22
Parameters That Affect Flange Design and In-Service Performance......................... 24
Pass Partition Gaskets ................................................................................................ 30
Flat (Channel) Cover.................................................................................................. 31
Tubesheets.................................................................................................................. 32
Internal Floating Heads .............................................................................................. 36
Tubes.......................................................................................................................... 37
Pass Partition Plates ................................................................................................... 38
Nonpressure Containing Components........................................................................ 39
EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DESIGNS FOR AIR-
COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER TUBE BUNDLES AND HEADERS .......................... 40
Tube Bundle Design Requirements............................................................................... 40
Overall Bundle Design Requirements........................................................................ 40
Tube Design ............................................................................................................... 40
Tube Support Design ................................................................................................. 41

Header Design Requirements........................................................................................ 41

Basic Design Requirements ....................................................................................... 42
Header Type............................................................................................................... 42
Gasket Requirements ................................................................................................. 43
Nozzles and Other Connections ................................................................................. 43
Maximum Allowable Moments and Forces for Headers and Nozzles....................... 43
ASME Code Requirements ........................................................................................ 44
Computer Design of Header Boxes............................................................................ 45
Sample Problem 4: Evaluate Contractor-Specified Dimensions for the
Inlet/Outlet Header Box of an Air-Cooled Heat Exchanger....................................... 46
COMPLETING A SAFETY INSTRUCTION SHEET FOR A SHELL-
AND-TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER ................................................................................. 47
Information Covered ..................................................................................................... 47
Where to Find Other Information.................................................................................. 50
WORK AID 1: PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-
SPECIFIED DESIGN CONDITIONS FOR TEMA-TYPE AND AIR-
COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER COMPONENTS ......................................................... 51
Part 1: TEMA-Type Heat Exchangers........................................................................... 51
Part 2: Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers ............................................................................. 52
SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS FOR SHELL-AND-TUBE HEAT
EXCHANGER COMPONENTS...................................................................................... 54
Part 1: General Requirements........................................................................................ 54
Part 2: Girth Flanges and Flat Channel Covers ............................................................ 55
Part 3: Stationary and Floating Head Tubesheets......................................................... 60
Part 4: Floating Heads With and Without Backing Rings............................................ 64
SPECIFIED DESIGNS FOR AIR-COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER TUBE
BUNDLES AND HEADERS ........................................................................................... 68
Part 1: General Requirements........................................................................................ 68

Part 2: 32-SAMSS-011 and API-661 Requirements ..................................................... 69

Overall Tube Bundle Design Requirements............................................................... 69
Tube Wall Minimum Thickness................................................................................. 70
Selection of Tube Fins ............................................................................................... 70
Header Design Requirements..................................................................................... 71
Headers: Removable-Cover-Plate and Removable-Bonnet-Type .............................. 73
Headers: Plug-Type.................................................................................................... 73
Gasket Requirements ................................................................................................. 74
Nozzles and Other Connections ................................................................................. 74
Part 3: ASME Code Calculations for Header Box Plate Thicknesses .......................... 75
WORK AID 4: PROCEDURE FOR COMPLETING A SHELL-AND-
TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER SAFETY INSTRUCTION SHEET................................... 80
GLOSSARY ..................................................................................................................... 84

USE OF SAUDI ARAMCO DESIGN SPECIFICATION SHEETS IN HEAT

EXCHANGER PROCUREMENT
The Saudi Aramco specification sheets that are used for design of heat exchangers are also
used in various stages of heat exchanger procurement. These sheets are also frequently
referred to during heat exchanger operation, inspection, and maintenance inasmuch as they
are a source of reference information. Saudi Aramco has specification sheets for shell-and-
tube, air-cooled, and plate-type heat exchangers. The specification sheets for shell-and-tube
and air-cooled heat exchangers were previously introduced in MEX 210.02 with respect to
material selection requirements, and will be discussed further in this module. The
specification sheet for plate-type heat exchangers will not be discussed.
Use of Heat Exchanger Data Sheets

Heat exchanger data sheets that are required for capital projects are generally completed by
contractors who are employed by Saudi Aramco. The Saudi Aramco engineer will normally
review the contractor's work in order to ensure that the heat exchanger data sheet is completed
correctly. In some cases, the Saudi Aramco engineer will complete the heat exchanger data
sheet when no contractor is involved on the project, or when an existing exchanger must be
rerated to new design conditions.
The data sheets specify the design information that is necessary in order to request a quotation
for a new exchanger and in order to document as-built details of the exchanger. The use of
data sheets ensures that there will be a uniform bidding basis among the competing heat
exchanger manufacturers and simplifies the bids that these manufacturers submit.
Data Sheet for Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco Form 2714, Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Specification, is used to specify
the design requirements for TEMA-type shell-and-tube heat exchangers. This form is
referenced in SAES-E-001, Basic Criteria for Unfired Heat Transfer Equipment. This form is
shown in Figure 1, and a copy is contained in Course Handout 3. The form has several
sections that are filled in by process and mechanical engineers during heat exchanger
procurement. The following paragraphs briefly describe the main sections of this form.
Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Form 2714
Figure 1

Form 2714
Figure 1, cont’d

General Procurement Information

The upper left portion of the form contains an area where general information about the
exchanger is specified. The following items would probably be completed before the form is
sent out to manufacturers for bids:
• Equipment No.
• Service
• Horiz./Vert.
• No. of Units
• OR No.
• Date
• Type (TEMA Designation)
• Sour Wet Service/Lethal
• Service Condition (Cyclic/Noncyclic)
The following information is typically completed either by the manufacturer when he bids on
the exchanger or by the contractor when he specifies the purchase information:
• Shell I.D.
• Tube Length
• Per unit (shells in series and shells in parallel)
• Saudi Aramco Order No.
• Manufacturer's Name
• Manufacturer's Order Number
• Manufacturers Drawing Number
• Total Effective Surface Area and No. of Shells per Unit
• Effective Surface per Shell

Section A. Process/Performance Data of One Unit

The contractor's process engineer typically completes the process information that is specified
in this section. The heat exchanger manufacturer uses this information to design the
exchanger from a process standpoint. Note that this section contains columns that are headed
“IN” and “OUT” for both the shell-side and the tube-side fluids. The purpose of these
columns is to allow the contractor's process engineer to indicate the change in various process
parameters as the fluid travels from the inlet to the outlet on both the shell-side and tube-side
of the exchanger. In most cases, all of the information that is necessary for the process design
of the unit is provided when the specification is sent out for bids. Any discrepancies between
the specified process information and what the manufacturer includes in his bid must be
resolved before the exchanger is purchased, because these discrepancies could have a
significant effect on whether the heat exchanger performs its required process function.
From a mechanical design standpoint, the values that are of interest are the temperature, the
inlet pressure, and the pressure drop. The mechanical design temperature must be higher than
the process temperature. The mechanical design pressure must be higher than the inlet
pressure, and some internals must be designed for the pressure drop that occurs in the
exchanger.
Section B. Construction Data of One Shell

The mechanical design information that is necessary to construct the heat exchanger is
specified in this section. The contractor's mechanical engineer should provided as much
information as possible in order to obtain a uniform basis for bidding; however, in all cases,
relevant requirements that are contained in SAES-E-001 must be completed by the contractor.
Any information that is left out should be completed by the manufacturer when he submits his
bid.
There are two columns in the first part of this section, one for the shell-side data and one for
the tube-side data. The following information must be specified when the specification sheet
is sent out for bids:
• Corrosion Allowance
• Design Temperature
• Design Pressure
• Nozzle Data (Size, Number, Rating, Facing)

The following design information is normally completed by the contractor or the

manufacturer before the exchanger is purchased:
• Test Pressure
• Limited By
• Number of Passes per Shell
• Shell I.D. and O.D.
The second part of Section B contains three columns that cover materials and construction
details for the exchanger. The first column is for Material and Specifications, the second
column is for Thickness Base Metal/Cladding, and the last column is for PWHT/XR
(Postweld Heat Treatment/ Degree of Radiography). Saudi Aramco material specification
requirements were discussed in MEX 210.02. In most cases, this information is completed by
the manufacturer at the time of bid; however, this information could also be completed by the
contractor when bids are requested if the contractor has done a complete mechanical design.
The second part of Section B also contains design information that must be specified for the
tubes and baffles.
Section C. Miscellaneous
This section includes information (such as overall dimensions and weights) that is normally
completed by the manufacturer when he submits his bid. The section also includes notes for
the specification sheet and an area for remarks and general requirements, such as:
• ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII, Div. (1 or 2) and Edition
(i.e., year)
• Standards of the Tubular Exchangers Manufacturer's Association (TEMA)

Type and Class
• Saudi Aramco Material System Specification 32-SAMSS-007
• Saudi Aramco Standard Heat Exchanger Type (Yes/No)
• Reference Drawings
The lower right corner of the form contains a standard Saudi Aramco drawing title block and
revision record.

Data Sheet for Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco Form 2716, Specifications for Air Cooled Heat Exchanger, is referenced by
SAES-E-001. This form is shown in Figure 2 and a copy is contained in Course Handout 3.
The form has several sections that are completed by process and mechanical engineers at
various stages of exchanger procurement. The following paragraphs briefly describe the main
sections of this form.
Form 2716
Figure 2

General Procurement Information

This portion of the form contains general information about the heat exchanger. All of this
information, except for the manufacturer’s name, is completed by the contractor.
Performance Data Section

This section contains process information that is completed by the contractor's process
engineer. The heat exchanger manufacturer uses this information to design the exchanger
from a process standpoint. Note that there is one column for tube-side data and another
column for air-side data. The tube-side column contains additional columns that are headed
“IN” and “OUT.” The purpose of these columns is to allow the contractor's process engineer
to indicate various process parameters that may change as the tube-side fluid travels from the
inlet to the outlet of the exchanger. In most cases, all of the information that is necessary to
permit the process design of the exchanger is provided when the specification is sent out for
bids. Any discrepancies between the specified process information and what the
manufacturer includes in his bid must be resolved before the exchanger is purchased because
these discrepancies could have a significant effect on whether the heat exchanger performs its
required process function.
From a mechanical design standpoint, the values that are of interest on the tube-side are the
inlet temperature, the inlet pressure, and the pressure drop. The mechanical design
temperature must be higher than the process inlet temperature. The mechanical design
pressure must be higher than the process inlet pressure, and some internals must be designed
for the pressure drop that occurs in the exchanger. The quantities that are of interest on the air
side are the design inlet air temperature and the minimum design temperature.
Design-Materials-Construction Section
This section includes the mechanical design information that is necessary to construct the heat
exchanger. The contractor's mechanical engineer should provide as much information as
possible in order to obtain a uniform basis for bidding; however, in all cases, relevant
requirements that are contained in SAES-E-001 must be completed by the contractor. Any
information that is left out should be provided by the manufacturer when he submits his bid.

The following information is normally specified when the specification sheet is sent out for
bids:
• Design Pressure
• Wind Load
• Corrosion Allowance
• Nozzle Data (Size, Number, Rating, Facing)
• TI and PI connections (Sizes, Number, Reference Details)
• Design Temperature
• ASME Code Stamping Requirements (Yes/No)
The bottom and the left margin of the form contains a standard Saudi Aramco drawing title
block and revision record.

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DESIGN CONDITIONS FOR TEMA-

TYPE AND AIR-COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER COMPONENTS
SAES-E-001 specifies how to determine the heat exchanger mechanical design conditions
based on the operating conditions that are specified on Forms 2714 and 2716 . The process
engineer always specifies the operating conditions and usually sets the mechanical design
conditions as well; however, the mechanical engineer usually checks the design conditions as
a part of his review of the Contractor Design Package. Work Aid 1 provides a procedure that
may be used to evaluate the information that is contained in a Contractor Design Package, to
determine if the design conditions are specified correctly.
In most cases, the maximum operating pressure and temperature can be assumed to be equal
to the values that are indicated in the process/performance section of Form 2714 or Form
2716. However, the specified conditions may not be the maximum operating conditions in
some cases, such as when the heat transfer surface area must be sized to transfer heat at
conditions that are lower than the maximum operating conditions. For the purpose of this
course, it will be assumed that the operating conditions that are shown on Form 2714 and
Form 2716 are the maximum operating conditions. In actual work, the maximum operating
pressures and temperatures must be confirmed by the process engineer in order to ensure that
the mechanical design of the heat exchanger is suitable for the most extreme operating
conditions.
Since heat exchangers transfer heat from one fluid to another, design conditions must be
specified for each fluid. Some heat exchanger components are exposed to only one fluid, and
other components are exposed to both fluids. Therefore, some components need only be
designed for one set of design conditions, while other components must be designed for both
sets of design conditions. From a practical standpoint, both sets of design conditions must
only be directly considered for shell-and-tube heat exchangers.
TEMA-Type Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

Figure 3 illustrates which design conditions are imposed on the major components of a shell-
and-tube heat exchanger, and Figure 4 summarizes the conditions that each major component
must be designed for. The following sections discuss the design conditions for specific
components.

Heat Exchanger Design Conditions
Figure 3

Components Designed for Components Designed for Components Designed for

Shell-Side Conditions Tube-Side Conditions Both Shell-Side and Tube-
Side Conditions
Shell Channel Tubes
Shell Cover Channel Cover Tubesheet(s)
Shell Flanges Channel Flange Tubesheet Flanges
Shell Nozzles Channel Nozzles Floating Head
Pass Partition Plate
Design Conditions for Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger Components
Figure 4
Shells and Heads

The shell and shell cover must be designed for the shell-side conditions and the channel and
channel cover must be designed for the tube-side conditions. These components are made of
cylindrical shells, conical shells, or formed heads, and they are designed for the design
pressure at the design temperature using the ASME Code Section VIII. Design procedures
that are used for these components were discussed in MEX 202.
Nozzles
Shell-side nozzles are designed for the shell-side conditions and tube-side nozzles are
designed for the tube-side conditions. The nozzles necks are cylindrical shells and are
designed in accordance with the ASME Code for their respective design conditions. Because
there are cut-outs in the shell due to the nozzle penetration, nozzle reinforcement
requirements must be evaluated in accordance with the ASME Code.
Nozzles typically have standard flanges in order to permit attachment to the connected pipe.
These flanges are designed in accordance with ASME/ANSI B16.5 for up to 600 mm (24 in.)
size and must meet other design standards for larger sizes. The flange Class (e.g., Class 150,
300, or 600) is specified based on the required design pressure and design temperature.

External forces and moments may be exerted on the nozzles by piping that is attached to
them, and the nozzles should be designed for these loads in addition to the design pressure. If
the piping loads are high, they should be specified to the heat exchanger manufacturer so that
he can determine if additional nozzle reinforcement is required.
All these aspects of nozzle design were discussed in MEX 202.
Girth Flanges
Figure 3 shows that a typical shell-and-tube heat exchanger has several girth flanges. On the
rear or floating head end of the exchanger, a flange may be used to bolt the shell cover to the
shell. This shell cover flange is designed for shell-side conditions. On the front or stationary
end of the exchanger, a girth flange may be used to bolt a flat cover onto the channel. This
channel flange is designed for the tube-side conditions. A girth flange may also be used to
bolt the channel to the shell.
In many cases, the tubesheet at the stationary end of the exchanger may be clamped between
a pair of girth flanges. In these clamped tubesheet designs, one of the girth flanges is attached
to the channel and the other girth flange is attached to the shell. The shell-side flange at the
stationary-end tubesheet must be designed for the shell-side conditions, and the tube-side
flange at the tubesheet must be designed for the tube-side conditions. In addition, since both
flanges are connected by the same set of bolts, the flanges must be designed for a common
bolt load. This bolt load may be governed by either the shell-side or tube-side flange design,
whichever results in the larger bolt load. The actual design of such flanges will be discussed
in more detail in a later section.
Girth flanges are normally of nonstandard sizes, and are designed using procedures that are
contained in the ASME Code. These flange design procedures are discussed in a later section
of this module.
Tubesheets
Tubesheets are exposed to both the shell-side and the tube-side design conditions. In actual
operation, the tubesheets are normally exposed only to a differential pressure (i.e., the
difference between the tube-side pressure and the shell-side pressure) and are at a temperature
that is between the shell-side and the tube-side temperatures. While the tubesheets could be
designed on this basis, tubesheets are major components of the exchanger and are typically
designed for the more severe of either the shell-side or the tube-side conditions.

While conservative, this design approach is realistic inasmuch as it is often possible for one
side of the exchanger or the other side to be exposed to its operating conditions while the
other side is not.
There are some services where it is impossible for only one side of the exchanger to be at its
operating conditions while the other side is not (e.g., for a reactor feed-effluent exchanger
where both sides are automatically either in operation or not). In other cases, it may be very
expensive to design the tubesheet for the worst design conditions. In these special situations,
the tubesheet may be designed for only the differential pressure between the tube-side and the
shell-side.
An additional factor is that hydrotest of the heat exchanger is normally done on each side
separately. Thus, one side will have the full hydrotest pressure while the opposite side has no
pressure.
Tubesheets typically operate at a temperature that is between the shell-side and the tube-side
temperatures. The TEMA standard allows tubesheets to be designed for the mean metal
temperature unless the owner specifies otherwise. If a mean temperature is used, it should be
based on heat transfer calculations that account for the heat transfer coefficients and various
modes of operation. Except for fixed tubesheet heat exchangers, tubesheets are usually
designed for the higher of either the tube-side or the shell-side temperatures unless it is
impossible for the exchanger to be exposed to the higher temperature (e.g., if a refractory
lining is installed on the tubesheet to reduce its metal temperature). In the case of fixed
tubesheet exchangers, it may not be practical to design the fixed tubesheet if the design
conditions are too conservative. Therefore, the tubesheets of fixed tubesheet exchangers are
usually designed for a calculated mean temperature.
Flat Covers
Flat covers are typically used on the channel side of TEMA Type A and Type C exchangers
and are designed for the tube-side pressure and temperature conditions. Covers for
exchangers that have internal pass partition plates must also be designed to limit the
deflection of the cover in order to minimize leakage across the pass partition plate. Deflection
limits are specified in TEMA and are discussed in a later section.
Internal Components
Internal components of a heat exchanger may be subjected to pressure from both sides or may
not be subjected to any significant pressure. In general, the design temperature of the
component is taken as the higher design temperature of the fluids with which it is in contact.
The TEMA standard also permits internal components to be designed for a mean metal
temperature unless the owner specifies otherwise. In most cases, internal components are
designed for the more severe set of conditions.

Floating Heads - The tube-side conditions impose an internal pressure on the floating head, and
the shell-side conditions impose an external pressure on the floating head. Both sets of
conditions must be checked separately in order to determine which one governs the design of
the floating head and its associated flange and backing ring. As with tubesheets, floating
heads are usually designed for the more severe of either the shell-side or the tube-side
conditions. Recall from MEX 202 that the design of heads and cylinders for external pressure
conditions is done using a different procedure than is used for internal pressure conditions.
Therefore, the governing condition for the head thickness may not necessarily be the higher
pressure side of the exchanger.
Tubes - The tubes of shell-and-tube heat exchangers are typically designed independently for
internal pressure at the tube-side conditions and for external pressure at the shell-side
conditions. The tube design is governed by the set of conditions that requires the larger tube
thickness. The longitudinal stress due to weight and pressure may govern the design in some
cases; however, it is usually more economical to reduce the baffle or tube support spacing
rather than to increase the tube wall thickness.
In fixed tubesheet exchangers, consideration must also be given to designing the tubes for
forces that are due to the differential temperature between the tubes and the shell. If the tube
loads are too high, normal practice is to use a shell expansion joint rather than to increase the
tube wall thickness. Tube vibration may also be a consideration in the design of tubes. Tube
vibration is discussed in MEX 210.05.
Pass Partition Plates and Longitudinal Baffles - Pass partition plates are located in the channel and
the floating heads of some exchangers. Typically, these plates are designed for the maximum
normal pressure drop across the tube side. Some exchanger configurations include shell-side
longitudinal baffles, and these baffles must be designed for the shell-side pressure drop.
Nonpressure Containing Components - Nonpressure containing components include tie-rods,

spacers, impingement plates, baffles, and support plates. The design of these components is
typically based on minimum sizes that are specified in TEMA based on nominal shell
diameter. Tube support plates that are thicker than the TEMA minimum values may be
required in some cases where there is a large shell-side corrosion allowance or if flow
pulsation or tube vibration is a special design consideration.

Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers

As described in MEX 210.01, air-cooled heat exchangers are composed of a tube bundle, one
or more header boxes, a steel frame, steel ductwork, and machinery for the fan. Several of
these primary components are illustrated in Figure 5. The basic minimum thicknesses for
many of the components are given in the SAMSS or API standards, and the tubes and the
header boxes are designed for internal pressure in accordance with the ASME Code. The
design of the machinery and structural steel parts is outside the scope of this course. The
design conditions that are used for the tubes, tube fins, tube bundle, tube supports, and header
boxes are briefly discussed below.
Typical Air-Cooled Heat Exchanger Tube Bundle Components
Figure 5

Tubes
The tubes of an air-cooled heat exchanger are typically designed with respect to strength,
based on the process-side design pressure and design temperature. Design of the tubes must
also take into consideration the additional longitudinal stress that is caused by the weight
loads from the tubes, tube fins, and tube contents. Note that it is usually more economical to
shorten the tube support spacing, rather than increase the tube wall thickness in cases where
excessive longitudinal stress or tube sagging are a problem. The needed tube surface area of
the exchanger is usually determined based on the air-side design temperature conditions.
Tube Fins
Several different designs are available that may be used to attach fins to the tubes. The tube
metal temperature typically governs which fin attachment option is used for a specific heat
exchanger. The fin attachment design is typically selected based on the maximum process-
side design temperature, because it is usually possible to stop the air flow while the process
fluid continues to flow.
Tube Bundles
The tube bundle must be designed for the process-side design temperature in case the air flow
is stopped. The bundle must be designed for differential thermal expansion between it and the
supporting frame and structure. The tube bundle must be designed to be rigid in order to
permit handling it as a complete assembly both in the shop and in the field. The tube bundle
and side frame assemblies must also be designed to withstand the required wind loads and
earthquake loads.
Tube Supports
The tubes are supported at intervals that are short enough to prevent excessive sagging due to
the imposed weight loads. Excessive sagging could cause flow distribution problems, or
cause meshing or crushing of the fins. The fluid property information, design temperature,
and tube design details that are specified on Form 2716 are used to help determine the
required tube support spacing.

Header Boxes
The header boxes are designed for internal pressure at the process-side design conditions.
The specific heat exchanger service and design conditions may affect design details of the
header box. Header box design details are discussed later in this module.
API-661 limits the loads that may be imposed by connected piping on heat exchanger nozzles
in order to avoid overstressing the nozzles and the header boxes. The maximum permitted
nozzle loads are a function of nozzle diameter. The header boxes must also be designed to
transmit piping loads from the nozzles to the exchanger-side frame and support structure.

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS FOR SHELL-AND-

TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER COMPONENTS
A shell-and-tube heat exchanger is composed of many components, such as cylindrical or

conical shells, flat plates, and formed heads. Although minimum thicknesses for these
components are given in 32-SAMSS-007, API-660, TEMA, or the ASME Code, these
components must normally be designed and dimensioned for the specific heat exchanger
design requirements. The design of components such as cylindrical shells and formed heads
was covered in MEX 202 and will not be discussed. Components that are unique to shell-
and-tube heat exchangers (e.g., girth flanges, flat [channel] covers, internal floating heads,
tubesheets, tubes, and pass partition plates) will be discussed.
To evaluate the dimensions that a contractor or manufacturer specifies for shell-and-tube heat
exchanger components, the Saudi Aramco engineer typically checks that all dimensions are:
• Consistent on all drawings and in all specifications and calculations that are
made by the manufacturer and that are included in the Contractor Design
Package.
• In accordance with the design and calculation requirements that are specified in
Form 2714, 32-SAMSS-007, API-660, TEMA, and the ASME Code.
Work Aid 2 provides an overall procedure that may be used to evaluate the dimensions that
are specified for the major components of shell-and-tube heat exchangers. The sections that
follow elaborate on several aspects of this procedure and discuss several of the design
requirements for specific heat exchanger components.
General Dimensional Verification

The dimensions that are specified for heat exchanger components must be checked to ensure
that they are consistent and that they comply with Saudi Aramco and industry requirements.
Fundamental and simple errors are often made that are not related to design calculations.

Typical Errors
Many mistakes are made when copying dimensions from calculation sheets to fabrication
drawings or from one drawing to another. Corrosion allowance is sometimes left out or may
be counted twice when component thicknesses are indicated on the drawing. In some cases,
details may not be consistent between the overall heat exchanger assembly drawing and other
drawings that specify individual component details. Another typical mistake occurs when a
detail on one drawing is revised, but other details in the Contractor Design Package are not
revised to be consistent with the change.
Compliance with Saudi Aramco, TEMA, API, and ASME Requirements

While manufacturers are all familiar with TEMA, API-660, and ASME Code requirements,
the manufacturer may not be familiar with Saudi Aramco's specific requirements. In some
cases, dimensional requirements or dimensional limits that are given on Form 2714 or in 32-
SAMSS-007 may be neglected. In other cases, the manufacturer may misinterpret a Saudi
Aramco requirement. Therefore, several problems can usually be identified if a review for
compliance is made with respect to specific Saudi Aramco requirements.
Use of Computer Programs

The required mechanical design calculations for heat exchanger components are normally
done using computer programs. Therefore, the Saudi Aramco engineer will normally have to
check computer-generated calculations, in addition to checking the fabrication exchanger
drawings, in order to confirm that the heat exchanger design is acceptable.
Verifying Computer Programs

The required design calculations must be done in accordance with the appropriate TEMA and
ASME Code requirements. In order to check a manufacturer's computer program, it is usually
sufficient to review a verification example problem that was made for the program. If no
verification problem is available, another approach is to select a typical exchanger and
thoroughly check the calculations for the selected exchanger. This check can be done by
redoing the calculations by hand or by using another, commercially-available computer
program for heat exchanger design that has already been independently verified. Commercial
programs that are widely used are usually updated frequently and corrected quickly when
errors are found.

All of the heat exchanger calculations that are used in this module were made using the
CODECALC computer program by Coade, Inc. This program is available within Saudi
Aramco. It may be assumed that the CODECALC program has been thoroughly tested and
verified. All computer programs require the same input, use the same TEMA or ASME Code
equations, and give similar output. The purpose of this course is not to instruct Participants in
how to run a specific computer program, but in how to evaluate whether the contractor or
exchanger manufacturer has done his job properly. Therefore, the Work Aids were developed
to facilitate the process of checking the input and output of a typical computer program.
However, the terminology that is used in the input and output of the CODECALC program is
explained where necessary.
Checking Computer Input Data

Checking for consistency between the computer program input data and the information that
is included in various parts of the Contractor Design Package is tedious but is necessary. The
necessary input includes design conditions, some dimensional information, material
properties, and other Code design information.
Some computer programs require that necessary design factors be manually entered from
tables or figures that are in the standard or Code, whereas other programs have internal data
bases that contain the needed information. A small mistake in the computer program input
can result in completely incorrect calculations.
Checking Computer Output

Checking that the contractor or manufacturer has correctly interpreted the computer program
output is tedious, but this checking is still necessary because errors can still be made at this
stage. Examples of errors that can be made at this stage include overlooking corrosion
allowances or specifying information on the fabrication drawings that does not coincide with
the program output (e.g., an incorrect thickness).
Heat exchanger programs can also calculate the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure
(MAWP) of exchanger components based on a specified component thickness and other as-
built dimensions. The basic approach that is used to solve for MAWP was discussed in MEX
202. For heat exchangers, the MAWP is determined by solving the appropriate TEMA or
ASME Code equations for pressure in terms of the as-built thickness and other dimensions.
The MAWP is then shown in the program output. Knowing the MAWP is useful if it is
required to rerate an exchanger. Rerating a heat exchanger is discussed in MEX 210.05.

Heat Exchanger Components

This section will review the design requirements for the following components of shell-and-
tube heat exchangers and air-cooled heat exchanger.
• Girth flanges
• Pass partition gaskets
• Flat (channel) cover
• Tubesheets
• Internal floating heads
• Tubes
• Pass partition plates
• Nonpressure containing parts
Girth Flanges
Girth flanges are custom-designed for most shell-and-tube heat exchangers, although some
manufacturers attempt to standardize some aspect of their girth flange designs. All girth
flanges should be checked for compliance with the ASME Code, Section VIII Div. 1,
Appendix 2. The procedure is quite involved and is best done by using a computer program.
Work Aid 2 contains an overall procedure that may be used to check design calculations that
are provided by a contractor or manufacturer for exchanger girth flanges. The following
sections briefly describe:
• The steps in the overall ASME flange design procedure.
• The parameters that affect flange design and in-service performance.
• The tubesheet girth flange design requirements for TEMA Type A and Type B
exchangers.
Overall ASME Flange Design Procedure
The flange design procedure consists of the following steps:
• Determining bolting requirements.
• Determining flange design loads and moments.
• Determining stresses in two flange ring and flange hub.

The first main step in flange design is usually to determine the number and size of bolts that
are required for the flange. Bolting requirements are determined by calculating the loads on
the bolts during both normal operation (i.e., based on the design conditions), Wm1, and during
the initial flange boltup (i.e., the gasket seating conditions), Wm2. The bolt area that is
required for each of these loads is then calculated by dividing each bolt load by the allowable
stress of the bolts at design temperature and room temperature, respectively. Either the
operating case or the gasket seating case may yield the minimum required bolt area, Am.
Inasmuch as bolts come in standard sizes, and inasmuch as there are limitations on the
spacing between bolts, the actual bolt area, Ab, is usually greater than the maximum required
bolt area.
The next step is to determine the design loads and moments on the flange. These loads
include the design bolt load on the flange (W), the hydrostatic pressure loads that act on the
flange (HD and HT), and the gasket sealing force (HG). Because these loads do not all act at
the same location on the flange, effective moment arms (hD, hT, and hG) are calculated based
on the locations of the bolts and gasket and on the flange geometry (See Figure 6). The
appropriate loads are then multiplied by the effective lever arms in order to determine flange
design moments for the operating case and the gasket seating case.
Flange Loads and Moment Arms
Figure 6

Finally, the stresses in the flange ring and the flange hub are calculated using stress factors
that are in the ASME Code (which are based on the flange geometry), the applied moments,
and the flange geometry. These stresses are calculated for both the operating case and the
gasket seating case and are then compared to the appropriate Code allowable stress. If the
flange is properly designed, all of the flange stresses will be lower than the appropriate
allowable stresses. It may be necessary to increase the flange thickness, change the hub
dimensions, or make other changes to the flange design parameters in order to keep the flange
stresses within their allowable limits. The computer programs that are used for flange design
use iterative calculation procedures in order to optimize flange design.
Parameters That Affect Flange Design and In-Service Performance

The following additionally significant parameters are discussed below:
• ASME Code m and y parameters.
• Specified widths for peripheral ring gaskets and pass partition gaskets.
• Flange facing and nubbin width w.
• Bolt size, number, and spacing.
The gasket factor, m, is a parameter that determines the amount of force that is required to
keep the gasketed joint tight. The minimum design seating stress, y, is a parameter that
determines how much gasket stress is required to initially seat or deform the gasket. Both of
these parameters are used in the flange design calculations.
The ASME Code specifies m and y based on gasket type in Table 2-5.1 (excerpted in Figure
7). Higher values of m and y typically indicate that a gasket is harder to seal or seat. While
this is a consideration in gasket selection, gasket type and gasket material are usually selected
based on historical service experience and corrosion resistance. For example, both TEMA
and 32-SAMSS-007 specify gasket requirements based on service conditions as discussed in
MEX 210.02. In addition, m and y are only two of many parameters in the flange design
calculations.

Gasket Material Gasket Min. Facing Sketch and

Factor m Design Column in Table 2-5.2
Seating
Stress y,
psi
Flat metal, jacketed asbestos filled:

Soft aluminum 3.25 5 500
Soft copper or brass 3.50 6 500
Iron or soft steel 3.75 7 600 (1a), (1b), (1c), (1d);
(2); Column II
Monel 3.50 8 000
4-6% chrome 3.75 9 000
Stainless steels and nickel-base alloys 3.75 9 000
Solid flat metal:
Soft aluminum 4.00 8 800
Soft copper or brass 4.75 13 000
Iron or soft steel 5.50 18 000 (1a), (1b), (1c), (1d);
(2), (3), (4), (5);
Monel or 4-6% chrome 6.00 21 800 Column I
Stainless steels and nickel-base alloys 6.50 26 000
ASME Code m and y Factors
Figure 7
TEMA specifies a minimum required width for the peripheral ring gaskets at external joints
and for pass partition gaskets. Although TEMA exchangers operate over a very wide range of
service conditions, these minimum gasket widths have been used for many years and are
typically specified.

The gasket widths that are referred to in TEMA are actual minimum widths. In addition to the
actual minimum width, N, two other gasket widths are referred to in the ASME Code: the
basic seating width, bo, and the effective seating width, b. The effective seating width is a
function of the basic seating width, and the basic seating width is a function of the actual
width and the type of flange face. See Table 2-5.2 in the ASME Code (Excerpted in Figure
8). In general, wider gaskets provide better sealing, but a wider gasket also requires more
bolting to seat and seal the gasket. The required flange thickness increases as the amount of
bolting increases.
Effective Gasket Seating Width, b
b = bo when b o ≤ 1/ 4 in.; b = b o when bo > 1/ 4 in.
ASME Code Gasket Widths
Figure 8

The effective seating width, b, discussed above is also a function of the flange facing type and
the nubbin width, w, for flat metal gaskets. Table 2-5.1 (excerpted in Figure 7) in the Code
indicates which facing sketch is applicable for a given gasket type and material, and Table 2-
5.2 (Figure 8) shows the equations for determining b based on w, N, and the type of flange
facing. Note that b is the factor used in the subsequent Code equations to determine the load
required for sealing the gasket during operation, WM1, and the load required for seating the
gasket initially, WM2. Once a gasket type, material, width, and facing are selected, the
required bolting area can be determined.
The bolt size, number and spacing that are used to clamp the flanges together are interrelated
parameters that affect the overall design of the flanges. Bolting is typically selected per
TEMA Table D-5 (See Figure 9), with the added restrictions in TEMA Par. R-11.1 that the
minimum bolt size is 19 mm (3/4 in.).
Bolt Size Threads Nut Dimensions Bolt Radial Radial Edge Wrench Bolt
Spacing Distance Distance Distance Diameter Size
dB No. of Root Across Across B Rh Rr E a dB

Threads Area, Flats Corners
in.2
1/2 13 0.126 7/8 0.969 1 1/4 13/16 5/8 5/8 1 1/2 1/2
5/8 11 0.202 1 1/16 1.175 1 1/2 15/16 3/4 3/4 1 3/4 5/8
3/4 10 0.302 1 1/4 1.383 1 3/4 1 1/8 13/16 13/16 2 1/16 3/4
7/8 9 0.419 1 7/16 1.589 2 1/16 1 1/4 15/16 15/16 2 3/8 7/8
1 8 0.551 1 5/8 1.796 2 1/4 1 3/8 1 1/16 1 1/16 2 5/8 1
Bolting Data
Figure 9
TEMA Table D-5 indicates the number of threads per inch and the tensile stress area at the
root of the threads. The number of bolts multiplied by the bolt root area of a single bolt must
be greater than the minimum required bolt area, Am. The bolts must be far enough away from
the shell or hub of the flange and be far enough apart circumferentially so that there is
adequate clearance to permit access for a wrench to tighten and loosen the bolts. TEMA
Table D-5 also indicates minimum dimensions to ensure adequate access for standard
wrenches.
While it may appear that maintaining these minimum dimensions can easily be achieved if a
few large bolts are used, the bolts should also be spaced as close together as practical for
several reasons.

• Having fewer bolts increases the bolt load moment arms. Larger moment arms
increase the bending moments for which the flange must be designed and thus
increase the required flange thickness.
• TEMA also requires in Par. 11.2 that the flange design moment be increased if
the bolts are widely spaced. Here again, this results in a thicker flange.
• Excessive bolt spacing could make the flange more prone to leakage since the
portions of the gasket that are located between the bolts might not be
compressed sufficiently by the bolts to maintain a tight seal.
A final TEMA requirement in Par. 11.24 is that the total number of bolts be an integral
multiple of four.
A manufacturer's computer program will typically design the bolting and the flange subject to
all the above conditions. The responsibilities of the Saudi Aramco engineer would then be to
check the computer program input, to determine that the appropriate TEMA and ASME Code
factors and allowable stresses were used, and to confirm that the computer program output
has been correctly interpreted and incorporated into the design.
Tubesheet Girth Flange Design Requirements for TEMA Type A and Type B Exchangers - TEMA
Type A and Type B exchangers have the fixed tubesheet compressed between two girth
flanges. These girth flanges require special design consideration. Each flange must be
designed for the appropriate design conditions on each side of the tubesheet, and for the
common bolt load that is imposed on each flange. The common bolt load may be based on
the operating or gasket seating loads, and these loads may be different on each side of the
tubesheet.
The proper design of these girth flanges typically requires that at least three separate flange
calculations be made.
• The first calculation is done to design the flange on the channel side of the
tubesheet for the tube-side design conditions.
• The second calculation is done to design the flange on the shell-side for the
shell-side design conditions.
• After reviewing the first two calculations, one flange will typically be found to
require more bolting than the other. In this case, the flange that requires less
bolting must be redesigned for the larger amount of bolting.

Sample Problem 1 covers how to evaluate the design of this type of tubesheet girth flange.
Sample Problem 1: Evaluate Contractor-Specified Dimensions for the Mating Girth Flanges at the
Tubesheet of a TEMA-Type AET Heat Exchanger - You must evaluate the contractor-specified
dimensions for the mating girth flanges at the fixed tubesheet end of a Type AET heat
exchanger. All the information that is needed to solve this problem is in Contractor Design
Package 4 in Course Handout 4. This information includes the heat exchanger specification
sheet, flange dimensions, and the CODECALC computer program output for the shell girth
flange and the mating channel girth flange. Part 2 of Work Aid 2 is used to solve this
problem.
The first step in evaluating a design is to compare the common dimensions between the two
mating flanges and the number and size of bolts that are shown in the detail drawings for the
flanges. Flange dimensions are also checked for consistency between the drawing details and
the computer program input and output.
Note that additional design information is included in the computer program input, such as
ASME Code gasket factors and the allowable stresses for the flange material and the bolting.
This additional design information must be checked against the ASME Code requirements.
All of the computer input appears to be correct in this problem.
The next step is to evaluate the overall design. The tube side and shell side of the exchanger
have different design conditions; therefore, calculations were first made for the shell flange
for the shell-side conditions, and then made for the channel flange for the tube-side
conditions. By comparing the computer output for the required bolt area, Am, between the
two computer runs, it is seen that the shell flange governs the bolting requirement for these
mating flanges because it requires a larger value for Am. Therefore, a second analysis was
made for the channel flange to account for the bolt load that is required by the shell flange.
In reviewing the input for the second channel flange design case, it can be seen that the
appropriate values for the operating bolt load, gasket seating bolt load, and the flange design
bolt load have been entered for the mating flange bolt loads. These bolt loads were taken
from the previous calculations that were done for the shell flange.
Because the computer program input and output have been checked and the program has been
verified, it is concluded that the dimensions specified by the manufacturer for the girth flanges
are correct inasmuch as the dimensions are in accordance with the computer program output.

Pass Partition Gaskets

Most exchangers have at least two tube-side passes. A pass partition gasket is used in the
channel for these exchangers in order to provide internal sealing between the tube passes at
the pass partition plate (see Figure 10). A pass partition gasket is also required at the floating
head end for exchangers that have more than two tube-side passes. The pass partition gasket
has more surface area that must be compressed when compared to a conventional gasket that
only has material at its periphery. Therefore, the flange bolting must be sufficient to
compress the gasket enough at both its periphery and at the pass partition plate. If the
exchanger has more than two tube passes, the pass partition gasket has even more surface area
that must be compressed.
Pass Partition Gasket
Figure 10
Although not specifically referred to in the ASME Code calculations or in TEMA, girth
flanges should be designed to provide additional bolting in order to adequately compress pass
partition gaskets and achieve a tight seal. Properly designed bolting should be able to
compress the gasket at both its periphery and at the pass partition.

Bolting design can be handled in several ways. In the CODECALC program, the length of
the pass partition gasket may be entered as a separate parameter. If the width of the pass
partition gasket (Npp) differs from the width of the peripheral gasket (N), the length that is
input (Lpp) is adjusted as follows:
 Npp 
Lpp = (Gasket Inside Diameter) × 
 N 
The bolt area that is required is then increased to account for the additional gasket area.
Flat (Channel) Cover

Flat covers are used on the channels of TEMA Type A and Type C exchangers in order to
close the end of the channel (Refer to Figure 11).
Flat (Channel) Cover
Figure 11

The ASME Code design procedure for flat covers is specified in Par. UG-34 and is based on
determining the minimum cover thickness that is required to limit the stress in the cover plate
to the material allowable stress. In the ASME procedure, the thickness of the flat cover, t, is
determined as a function of the pressure, P, the cover plate allowable stress, S, the flange
design bolt load, W, the diameter of the gasket, d, and the gasket moment arm, hG.
In addition, TEMA also restricts the maximum deflection that can occur at the center of the
cover if the exchanger has pass partition baffles. The limit on cover deflection is specified in
order to minimize leakage that can occur across the pass partition baffle. TEMA Par. RCB-
9.21 limits the maximum cover deflection to the following limits:
• 0.76 mm (0.03 in.) for nominal cover diameters through 600 mm (24 in.).
• 0.125% of the nominal cover diameter for larger sizes.
An equation for calculating the deflection at the center of the cover is provided in TEMA Par.
RCB-9.21. Computer programs are often used to make the calculations for a flat channel
cover even though the calculations are not highly complicated. The cover deflection limit,
rather than the ASME Code allowable stress, will generally govern the channel cover
thickness for heat exchangers that have a pass partition plate.
The procedure that is in Work Aid 2 for girth flanges also may be used to check design
calculations that are provided by a contractor or manufacturer for exchanger flat (channel)
covers.
Tubesheets
Different types of tubesheets may be used in heat exchangers. The most frequently used and
simplest types of tubesheets to design are those associated with TEMA Type S, Type T, and
U-tube type exchangers. The procedures that are most often used for the design of tubesheets
in these exchangers is in accordance with TEMA Paras. RCB-7-1 through RCB-7-13.
The ASME Code also has a tubesheet design procedure in nonmandatory Appendix AA. The
ASME procedure is applicable for U-tube type and fixed tubesheet types of exchangers. Note
that the ASME Code procedure is more complicated than the TEMA procedure, and that the
TEMA procedure is used to design most heat exchanger tubesheets. Work Aid 2 covers only
the TEMA procedure. The following paragraphs discuss several considerations for tubesheet
design.

Tubesheet Thickness - TEMA Par. RCB-7.12 requires that the tubesheet thickness be measured
at the bottom of the pass partition baffle groove or the shell-side longitudinal baffle groove, if
so equipped. This is the thinnest portion of the tubesheet, as illustrated in Figure 12.
Tubesheet Thickness
Figure 12
The effective thickness must also exclude any corrosion allowance that is required that is in
excess of the partition groove depths. The effective thickness should be exclusive of any
applied facings, but the thickness of cladding or weld overlay that is in excess of the specified
corrosion allowance may be considered as effective in accordance with TEMA and ASME
procedures.

Basic Minimum Thicknesses - TEMA specifies basic minimum thicknesses for the tubesheet
based on overall fabrication and handling requirements when the tubes are expanded into the
tubesheet. Par. RCB-7.13 requires that the tubesheet thickness, exclusive of corrosion
allowance, should be at least equal to the nominal tube diameter but that the tubesheet
thickness including corrosion allowance cannot be less than 19 mm (3/4 in.).
Effective Thickness - The required effective thickness of the tubesheet is determined based on
limiting the bending and shear stresses in the tubesheet to the appropriate ASME Code
allowable stress. The appropriate TEMA paragraph references are as follows:
• Par. RCB-7.132 determines tubesheet thickness based on limiting the bending

stress in the center of the tubesheet.
• Par. RCB-7.133 determines the tubesheet thickness based on limiting the shear
stress in the tubesheet at the periphery of the tube bundle.
• Some tubesheets may be extended as a flange, as in a T-type floating end

tubesheet. Par. RCB-7.134 determines the thickness of the flanged extension
portion of the tubesheet.
Fixed Tubesheet Exchangers - A significant design issue in fixed tubesheet type exchangers is
differential thermal expansion between the shell and the tubes. Fixed tubesheet exchangers
are exchangers where both the front (i.e., channel) end tubesheet and the rear (i.e., shell) end
tubesheet on the exchanger are rigidly attached to the shell. These exchangers, designated as
L-, M-, or N-types, are much more complicated to design than S-, T-, or U- type exchangers
because the tubes and shell interact with the tubesheets.
Excessively high differential temperatures between the shell side and tube side of the
exchanger can result in the following:
• High thermal stresses in the tubesheet or shell that can and cause a fatigue
failure.
• High longitudinal loads in the tubes that could buckle the tubes and/or cause
leakage at the tube-to-tubesheet joints.

Because of these concerns, some fixed tubesheet exchangers may be equipped with an
expansion joint in the shell. The expansion joint permits differential thermal expansion
between the shell side and the tube side without causing excessive loads or stresses. An
expansion joint is normally necessary if the temperature differential between the tube wall
temperature of any one tube pass and the average shell side temperature exceeds
approximately 28°C (50°F). However, when the shell and tube materials have different
thermal expansion coefficients, a stress analysis is required even when the temperature
differential is less than 28°C (50°F).
Fixed tubesheet exchangers are usually designed using a computer program that determines
the interactions between the tubes, the shell, and the tubesheet. These programs typically
make the calculations in accordance with TEMA Par. RCB-7.16 and with Nonmandatory
Appendix AA of the ASME Code.
Tubesheets that have a nonuniform thickness, or that incorporate flexible knuckles at their
periphery, may be used on some exchangers. These tubesheets are considered as special
cases in TEMA Par. RCB-7.3 and should be designed in accordance with Div. 1 or Div. 2 of
the ASME Code.
Sample Problem 2: Evaluate Contractor-Specified Dimensions for the Floating End Tubesheet of a
TEMA-Type AET Heat Exchanger - You must evaluate the contractor-specified dimensions for
the floating end tubesheet of a Type AET exchanger. All the information that is needed to
solve this problem is in Contractor Design Package 4 in Course Handout 4. This information
includes the heat exchanger specification sheet, dimensions, and the CODECALC computer
program output for the floating end tubesheet. Part 3 of Work Aid 2 is used to solve this
problem.
The first step in evaluating the design is to compare the dimensions that are specified in the
drawing of the tubesheet to the computer program input. This comparison includes items
such as the facing ID, tubesheet OD, and bolt circle diameter. Additional design information
that is included in the computer program input, such as the gasket m and y factors and the
tubesheet allowable stress, is also checked with the ASME Code. All of the computer input
appears to be correct in this problem.
Inasmuch as the computer program input has been checked and the program has been
verified, it is concluded that the thickness specified for the floating end tubesheet is correct
because the CODECALC output shows no overstress, and the dimensions that are shown in
the tubesheet drawing coincide with the program output.

Internal Floating Heads

Internal floating heads are used on TEMA-Type AES and Type AET exchangers. The S-type
floating head requires a split backing ring to clamp the floating head to the tubesheet. The T-
type floating head is bolted directly to the tubesheet. These head types are illustrated in
Figure 13. The required thicknesses of the flange ring and of the dished head for both types
of floating heads may be determined using Appendix 1-6 of the ASME Code.
Types of Floating Heads
Figure 13
If the floating head is subjected to a high external (i.e., shell side) pressure, the head must also
be checked for buckling in accordance with the ASME Code Section UG-33.

The Appendix 1-6 method is relatively simple and can be done on a calculator, but computer
programs are normally used to design floating heads. Although acceptable to the ASME
Code, this method is approximate in that it does not consider the continuity between the
flange ring and the dished head. The ASME Code indicates that a more exact method of
analysis which considers the continuity between the flange ring and the head may be used if it
meets the requirements of Section U-2 of the Code. A procedure that was published by
Soehren in ASME paper ASME 57-A-7-47, The Design of Floating Heads for Heat
Exchangers, is one such method that is acceptable to the Code. In many cases the Soehren
method yields a thinner, more economical flange ring and floating head design than does the
Appendix 1-6 method. However, the Soehren method is more complicated, requires the
solution of simultaneous equations, and is best calculated using a computer program.
Sample Problem 3: Evaluate Contractor-Specified Dimensions for the Floating Head Cover of a TEMA-
Type AET Heat Exchanger - You must evaluate the contractor-specified dimensions for the
floating head of a Type AET exchanger. All the information that is needed to solve this
problem is in Contractor Design Package 4 in Course Handout 4. This information includes
the heat exchanger specification sheet, the dimensions of the floating head, and the
CODECALC computer program output for the floating head. Part 4 of Work Aid 2 may be
used to solve this problem.
The first step in evaluating the design is to compare the dimensions on the tubesheet and the
floating head, such as facing ID, OD, and bolt circle diameter. Dimensions are also checked
for consistency between the dimensions that are shown in the detail drawings and the
dimensions in the computer program input. Additional design information is included in the
computer program input, such as the gasket m and y factors and the allowable stresses for the
ring and the dished head materials. This additional information should be checked against the
ASME Code. All of the computer input appears to be correct in this problem.
Since the computer program input and output have been checked and the program has been
verified, it is concluded that the specified dimensions for the floating head are correct because
the dimensions shown on the drawing are in accordance with the computer program output.
Tubes
The tubes in TEMA P-, U-, S-, T-, and W-types of exchangers are typically designed in
accordance with the ASME Code Par. UG 31. Par. UG 31 references Par. UG 27 for internal
pressure and Par. UG 28 for external pressure. TEMA Par. 7.2 provides requirements for
determining the axial tensile and compressive loads in the tubes for TEMA L-, M-, and N-
type fixed tubesheet exchangers.

Wall Thickness and Corrosion Allowance - 32-SAMSS-007 requires tubes to be 19 mm (3/4 in.)
outside diameter with minimum thicknesses as shown in Figure 14.
Tube Material Minimum Required Thickness, mm (in.)

Carbon or Alloy Steel 14 BWG [2.1 mm (0.083 in.)]
Nonferrous Material 16 BWG [1.65 mm (0.065 in.)]
Minimum Required Tube Thickness
Figure 14
Although tubes are also subject to corrosion, corrosion allowances are not explicitly applied
to tubes per TEMA Par. RCB 1.517. The tube thickness that is required for internal or
external pressure is small, and the difference between the minimum supplied wall thickness
of the tube and the minimum required thickness is available for corrosion allowance. Tubes
are also considered to be replaceable parts, and therefore do not need as large a corrosion
allowance as other exchanger components. Consideration should be given to using a thicker
tube gage or using a higher alloy tube material in services where high corrosion rates are
expected where the design conditions require an unusually large tube wall thickness.
Pass Partition Plates

The required thickness of a pass partition plate is typically determined in accordance with
TEMA Par. RCB-9.132. The thickness of the plate is a function of the dimensions of the
plate, a and b, the pressure drop across the plate, q, the ASME Code allowable stress for the
plate material, S, and a factor that is based on the conditions of the plate edges, B (see Figure
15).

Pass Partition Plate
Figure 15
Note that pass partition plates do not require a corrosion allowance per TEMA Par. RCB-
1.518. If a corrosion allowance is desired, it should be applied to both sides of the pass
partition plate because both sides are exposed to the process fluid.
Nonpressure Containing Components

Nonpressure containing components include tie-rods, spacers, impingement plates, baffles,
and support plates. These components are typically supplied with the minimum thicknesses
that are specified in TEMA Paras. RCB-4.4 through 4.7, based on the nominal shell diameter.
API-660 requires that the thickness of transverse baffles and support plates not be less than
the shell-side corrosion allowance and that the thickness of impingement baffles should not be
less than 6.5 mm (1/4 in.). Thicker tube support plates may be required in some cases, per
RCB-4.43, for services that are prone to flow pulsation or tube vibration. Nonpressure
containing parts also do not require a corrosion allowance per TEMA RCB-1.516. If a
corrosion allowance or a more robust design is required for a particular application, this
requirement should be specifically stated in the purchase order.

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DESIGNS FOR AIR-COOLED HEAT

EXCHANGER TUBE BUNDLES AND HEADERS
The general approach that is used to evaluate contractor-specified designs for

air-cooled heat exchanger tube bundles and headers is the same as is used for shell-and-tube
heat exchangers. Dimensional consistency must be verified, and all calculations and design
procedures must be done in accordance with the applicable Saudi Aramco and industry
engineering documents. These engineering documents include 32-SAMSS-011, API-661,
and the ASME Code.
Work Aid 3 provides an overall procedure that may be used to evaluate the designs that are
specified for air-cooled heat exchanger tube bundles and headers. The sections that follow
elaborate on several aspects of this procedure and discuss several of the design requirements.
Tube Bundle Design Requirements

Tube bundle design requirements are specified in Section 5 of API-661 and in
32-SAMSS-011. As previously noted, the sections and paragraph numbers in the SAMSS
correspond to the same locations in API-661.
Overall Bundle Design Requirements

The tube bundle should be designed to be rigid so that it may be handled as a complete
assembly without distorting and being damaged. The tube bundle grows in both length and
width due to thermal expansion of the metal when the exchanger is in operation. Provision
must be made in the design to permit the thermal expansion of the bundle because restrained
thermal expansion could cause excessive stresses in the bundle that might eventually result in
a failure. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.1.4, requires that one header (usually the return header) be
free to move due to thermal expansion and that the bundle and the structural mounting must
have Teflon slide plates. Teflon has a much lower friction coefficient than steel, and its use
permits the bundle to slide more easily.
Tube Design
The tubes are typically designed in accordance with the ASME Code Par. UG 31. Par. UG 31
references Par. UG 27 for internal pressure design and Par. UG 28 for external pressure
design. The tubes must also be designed for the combination of the longitudinal stress due to
internal pressure and bending stress due to the tube weight. It is usually more economical to
change tube support spacing rather than to increase tube wall thickness in cases where
longitudinal overstress or sagging are a problem.

Tube Diameter Wall Thickness, and Corrosion Allowance - API-661 recommends a minimum prime
tube diameter of 25.4 mm (1 in.) in order to provide basic mechanical integrity to the bundle.
API-661 specifies minimum required nominal tube wall thicknesses in order to provide basic
mechanical strength, corrosion allowance, and for standardization purposes. These minimum
thicknesses are summarized in Work Aid 3.
Note that the required tube thickness varies with the tube material. This variation is due to
differences in both the corrosion resistance and the strength of the different tube materials.
As with shell-and-tube heat exchangers, corrosion allowances are not explicitly applied to the
tubes of air-cooled heat exchangers because the thickness that is required for pressure is
small, and the tubes are considered to be replaceable parts.
Selection of Tube Fins - The tubes of air-cooled heat exchangers normally have external fins in
order to increase their external heat transfer area. API-661 describes the various types of tube
fins that are available. 32-SAMSS-011 specifies temperature limits and restrictions on the use
of the various fin types and attachment methods based on Saudi Aramco experience. These
limits and restrictions are summarized in Work Aid 3.
Tube Support Design

The tubes are supported in the bundle in order to prevent sagging of the tubes and meshing of
the fins. Meshing of the fins limits their effectiveness from a heat transfer standpoint and
could also result in mechanical damage to the tubes. API-661 specifies a maximum center-to-
center distance between tube supports in order to minimize the possibility that these problems
will occur. API-661 requires that structural hold-downs be provided at each tube support in
order to prevent the tubes from lifting due to high winds or abnormal flow conditions.
API-661 requires that tube spacers be designed so that they do not rely on the outer periphery
of the fin for bearing in order to not damage the fins. The spacers must also prevent the fins
from meshing together.
Header Design Requirements

Header design requirements are specified in 32-SAMSS-011, API-661, and the ASME Code.
These requirements consist of design details for the type of header and its individual
components and procedures to calculate the required wall thicknesses of the flat plates that are
used to fabricate the header.

Basic Design Requirements

API-661 and 32-SAMSS-011 cover basic design requirements for the design of headers.
API-661 requires that, if the temperature differential between any adjacent tube passes is
greater than 200°F (111°C), split headers, U-tubes, or other means must be used to
accommodate the differential thermal expansion that will occur between the tube passes. This
accommodation is required in order to avoid excessive stress in the tubes that could cause the
tubes to fail and to avoid excessive forces at the tube-to-tubesheet joints that could result in
leakage.
API-661 specifies basic minimum thicknesses for header components based on their material,
as summarized in Work Aid 3. Note that these thicknesses already include a nominal
corrosion allowance of 3.2 mm (1/8 in.) for carbon and low-alloy steel components. SAMSS-
011 increases the required thickness of the tubesheet beyond what is required by API-661.
These basic minimum thickness requirements are specified in order to ensure basic strength
and rigidity of the header box structure, to accommodate typical tube-to-tubesheet and plug-
to-plug sheet design details, and to better resist the loads that are applied by the connected
piping system.
Header Type
32-SAMSS-011 requires that plug-type headers be used for process-type coolers and that
removable cover plate-type headers be used for lube oil and seal oil coolers below 1 725 kPa
(250 psig). Plug-type headers are used for process applications and for the higher pressure oil
cooler applications because plug-type headers are less prone to leakage and are preferred for
more severe process applications.
Plug-Type Header - Requirements for plug-type headers are specified in API-661. The tube
plug holes are specified to be slightly larger than the tube diameter in order to provide
sufficient clearance to enter the inside of the tube with inspection or cleaning tools.
Removable Cover Plate-Type and Removable Bonnet-Type Headers - API-661 specifies design
requirements for removable cover plate-type and removable bonnet-type headers. An
important consideration in the design of the flat cover or bonnet cover of these header types is
the spacing of the bolts that attach the cover or bonnet to the header. If the bolts are spaced
too far apart, insufficient compressive load may be exerted on the portion of the gasket that is
between the bolts. Insufficient gasket compression will make the cover prone to leakage.
API-661 provides an equation to determine the maximum permitted bolt spacing. Because
the bolts must be tightened with a wrench, the bolts must also be spaced a minimum distance
apart in order to provide sufficient space for the wrench. API-661 also specifies minimum
bolt spacing requirements in Table 1.

Gasket Requirements
The gasket surface of the tubesheet plug hole must be spot-faced in order to provide a smooth
and confined seating surface for the gasket. Gaskets that are used for tube plugs should be
either the solid metal or double-metal-jacketed type and be of the same material classification
as the plug. The use of these gasket types ensures that the gasket is of relatively strong
construction and will have the same corrosion resistance as the plug.
Gaskets that are used for flat covers and bonnets must also be the double-jacketed, non-
asbestos filled type, except that synthetic fiber gaskets can be used in water, lube oil, and seal
oil service if the pressure does not exceed 2 100 kPa (300 psig) and a parting agent is used on
both sides of the gasket. The minimum width of cover plate gaskets must be 9 mm (3/8 in.) in
order to provide enough sealing surface area, and gaskets must be of one-piece construction.
Nozzles and Other Connections

API-661 specifies flange and fabrication requirements for nozzles and other connections. 32-
SAMSS-011 specifies additional requirements that relate to nozzle strength, type of
connection, material selection, and fabrication details.
Maximum Allowable Moments and Forces for Headers and Nozzles

API-661 specifies maximum allowable forces and moments that may be imposed on nozzles
by the attached piping. Each nozzle must be designed by the manufacturer to withstand a
certain amount of force and moment that generally increases with nozzle size.
Since more than one nozzle is usually attached to a header, the manufacturer must also design
the header itself to withstand a certain amount of total load from all the nozzles. If there is
more than one bundle per heat exchanger bay, the total of all nozzle loads should not exceed
three times the loading for one header. The piping designer uses these permissible loads as
additional design criteria when he is designing the associated piping systems. The
manufacturer must ensure that the nozzle is not overstressed when these permitted loads are
applied.
Note that neither API-661 nor the ASME Code specifies how the manufacturer must design
the nozzles and headers for these loads. These load limits were set by a consensus agreement
between the manufacturers and the users, and these limits have historically proven to be
acceptable. Therefore, the use of standard nozzle and header design details is usually
considered to be sufficient.

ASME Code Requirements

Tubesheets, plug sheets, and covers must also be designed in accordance with the ASME
Code Section VIII, Div. 1, Par. UG-34 and Appendix 13. The rules of Par. UG-34 can be
applied to the design of the flat rectangular plates that make up the header box, a bonnet-type
cover, and a removable flat cover. The equations in UG-34 are explicit and can be used to
calculate the component thicknesses directly based on overall dimensions, design pressure,
and allowable stress.
Design of Rectangular Header Boxes - Appendix 13 of the ASME Code applies to the design of
rectangular vessels in general. This Appendix specifically treats the design of tubesheets,
plug sheets, and the top, bottom, and end plates of the rectangular header boxes or bonnet
covers of air-cooled heat exchangers. The design procedures that are in Appendix 13 usually
yield a thinner, more economical design than would result from using the UG-34 procedures;
however, the equations are not explicit (i.e., the equations cannot be directly solved for the
thickness of a single component in terms of other quantities).
Appendix 13 treats the header box as a complete structure, and the internal pressure load
causes membrane stresses and bending stresses in each of the plates that form the box (i.e.,
the tubesheet, plug sheet, end plates, top and bottom plates, [see Figure 16]). The bending
stresses in the plates are a function of the moment distribution factors that are in turn a
function of the thickness and the dimensions of all of the plates that make up the box. This is
a relatively complicated design procedure to apply.
Typical Header Box Details
Figure 16

The design procedure in Appendix 13 also requires that the stiffness and stresses in the
tubesheet and plug sheet be adjusted to account for the tube holes and plug holes. These
holes weaken the tubesheet and plug sheet. A ligament efficiency is used to adjust the
stiffness and stresses that are calculated, and the ligament efficiency is based on the tube hole
or plug hole dimensions and the pitch between the holes. (See Figure 17).
 p − d 
Ligament Efficiency =  p 
Ligament Efficiency in Tubesheet or Plug Sheet
Figure 17
Computer Design of Header Boxes

Whereas the required thicknesses of header box components can be readily checked once a
design has been developed, a trial-and-error method must be used for the initial design. In the
trial-and-error method, an initial estimate of the component thicknesses is made based on
assuming that the end of each side of the box is rigidly supported. The thickness of the plates
is then incremented until all of the components that make up the box are below the allowable
stress. The design of such components is therefore easily programmed into a computer.

Sample Problem 4: Evaluate Contractor-Specified Dimensions for the Inlet/Outlet

Header Box of an Air-Cooled Heat Exchanger
You must evaluate the contractor-specified dimensions for the inlet/outlet header box of an
air-cooled heat exchanger. All the information that is needed to solve this problem is in
Contractor Design Package 5 in Course Handout 4. This information includes the
specification sheet for the air-cooled heat exchanger, the dimensions of the inlet/outlet header
box, and the CODECALC computer program output. Work Aid 3 is used to solve this
problem.
The first step in evaluating the manufacturer's design is to compare the dimensions that are
specified in the drawings of the inlet/outlet header with the computer program input. These
dimensions include the length, width, and depth of the header box, the component
thicknesses, and the tube hole and plug hole dimensions. Additional design information that
may be required, such as the allowable stress, should also be verified against the ASME Code.
All of the computer input appears to be correct in this example.
Inasmuch as the computer program input has been checked and the program has been
verified, it is concluded that the dimensions specified by the manufacturer for the header box
plates are correct based on stress analysis considerations because the CODECALC output
shows that the header box components are not overstressed. However, note that the 0.375 in.
thickness specified for the stay plate is less than the 0.5 in. minimum thickness that is required
by API-661. Therefore, the stay plate thickness must be increased to 0.5 in. Because the
stresses are acceptable and the component dimensions are consistent between the program
and the detailed drawings, the header box design is acceptable once the stay plate thickness is
increased.

COMPLETING A SAFETY INSTRUCTION SHEET FOR A SHELL-AND-TUBE

HEAT EXCHANGER
As discussed in MEX 202, the purpose of a Safety Instruction Sheet is to ensure that
operations, maintenance, and inspection personnel have adequate information in a consistent
format. This information concerns safe operating limits, protective devices, and any special
safety precautions that may be required.
SAES-E-001 requires that a Safety Instruction Sheet be completed for every new process heat
exchanger. In most cases, a contractor who is working for Saudi Aramco is responsible for
completing the Safety Instruction Sheet. The Saudi Aramco Engineer is then responsible for
checking the contractor's work. In all cases, the Safety Instruction Sheet is completed based
on the final, certified, as-built, manufacturer’s data for the heat exchanger, not the data that is
on the heat exchanger specification sheet.
The Safety Instruction Sheet must also be revised whenever the heat exchanger is rerated or
modified. The Saudi Aramco engineer may be responsible for revising the Safety Instruction
Sheet when heat exchangers are rerated or modified.
Saudi Aramco has Safety Instruction Sheets for both shell-and-tube and air-cooled heat
exchangers. This module only discusses the Safety Instruction Sheet for shell-and-tube heat
exchangers. SAES-A-005, Preparation of Safety Instruction Sheets, outlines the procedures
for preparing Safety Instruction Sheets. These procedures are referenced in Work Aid 4. A
copy of SAES-A-005 is contained in Course Handout 2.
Information Covered
A copy of the Safety Instruction Sheet for shell-and-tube heat exchangers, Form 2713, is
shown in Figure 18, and additional copies are provided in Course Handout 3. Form 2713
includes general information, basic process design information, mechanical design
information, and operating limits, The following paragraphs highlight several of the primary
types of information that are required on Form 2713. Refer to Figure 18 or Course Handout
3.

Safety Instruction Sheet Form 2713
Figure 18

• The top part of Form 2713 contains basic equipment information such as
service, manufacturer, serial number, applicable construction Code and edition,
and reference drawings.
• Shell-side, tube-side, and tube-bundle details are provided in the next sections
of the form. These sections contain mechanical design information and
summarize information on pressure testing of the exchanger, such as the
following:
- Shell diameter, thickness, and material
- Tube material, diameter, and thickness
- Initial test pressure
- Limiting component in the test
- Basis for the calculated test pressure
• The lower part of the form contains information on the operating limits of the
shell side and tube side of the exchanger, such as the following:
- Design pressure and design temperature
- Basis for the design pressure
- Pressure relief valve location
- Relief valve set pressure
- Routine test pressure
- Minimum required thicknesses of the components, "tm"
- Actual available corrosion allowances of the components, “C”
- Reference drawing numbers

• The next section is used to specify any special hazards, recommendations,

inspections, or tests that are important for the safe operation of the exchanger.
• The bottom part of the form contains standard Saudi Aramco drawing
information, and the left side contains revision record and approval
information.
Form 2713 provides much information about a shell-and-tube heat exchanger. It makes it
possible for operations, maintenance, and inspection personnel to get needed information
from one source without reviewing many drawings. There will be situations when the
detailed exchanger fabrication drawings must be checked to resolve questions. However,
having the information on this one form reduces the need to refer to the drawings and focuses
the research on the necessary items.
Where to Find Other Information

Almost all of the information that is required on the Safety Instruction Sheet is obtained from
the final version of the heat exchanger specification sheet, the as-built exchanger drawings,
and the mechanical design calculations. The paragraphs that follow highlight other items that
might have to be obtained from other sources:
• Any special design considerations or unusual construction features that should

be highlighted would have been developed either during the initial specification
of the exchanger or during its detailed engineering. Pertinent information
could be obtained from the process and mechanical engineers who were
assigned to the work.
• Information as to the locations of the relief valves that protect the shell side and
the tube side of the exchanger is available from the contractor. The Process
and Instrument Diagram (P & ID) for the system will typically show the relief
valve locations.
• Information and guidance with regard to any special safety hazards,

recommendations, inspections, and tests can be obtained from General Safety
Instructions, Saudi Aramco GI No. 2608, and discussions with process, safety,
maintenance, and inspection personnel who are assigned to the project and are
familiar with the heat exchanger and its application.

WORK AID 1: PROCEDURE FOR EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED

DESIGN CONDITIONS FOR TEMA-TYPE AND AIR-COOLED HEAT
EXCHANGER COMPONENTS
The procedures in this Work Aid may be used to evaluate whether design conditions that are
specified in a Contractor Design Package for a heat exchanger meet the Saudi Aramco
requirements that are specified in SAES-E-001. A copy of SAES-E-001 is included in Course
Handout 2. Part 1 of this Work Aid is used for TEMA-type heat exchangers, and Part 2 is
used for air-cooled heat exchangers.
Part 1: TEMA-Type Heat Exchangers

1. Determine the process operating conditions for the shell side and tube side. List the
process operating conditions in Figure 19 under Operating Conditions. Operating
conditions are specified in Section A of Form 2714.
2. Determine the mechanical design conditions specified by the contractor for the shell
side and tube side. List the design conditions in Figure 19 under Design Conditions.
Mechanical design conditions are specified in Section B of Form 2714.
3. Determine if the design conditions meet the requirements that are specified in SAES-
E-001. These requirements are summarized as follows:
• The design pressure must be at least the greater of the maximum operating
pressure plus 104 kPa(ga) (15 psig), or 110 percent of the maximum operating
pressure.
• The design temperature must be at least the maximum operating temperature

plus 28°C (50°F). Metal design temperatures shall be based on "steaming out"
conditions if applicable.
• The minimum design temperature must be the minimum metal temperature that
is coincident with any pressure greater than 25 percent of the design pressure.
The possibility of auto-refrigeration during start-up, shutdown, or upset must be
considered in determining the minimum design temperature.

4. Indicate the results of your evaluation in the last column of Figure 19.
DESCRIPTION Operating Design Acceptable

Conditions Conditions (Yes/No)
Shell Side Max. Temperature, °C (°F)
Shell Side Min. Temperature, °C (°F)
Shell Side Pressure, kPa (psig)
Tube Side Max. Temperature, °C (°F)
Tube Side Min. Temperature, °C (°F)
Tube Side Pressure, kPa (psig)
TEMA-Type Heat Exchanger Design Condition Evaluation
Figure 19
Part 2: Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers

1. Determine the operating conditions for the process side. List these in Figure 20 under
Operating Conditions. Process operating conditions are indicated on Lines 16 and 23
of Form 2716.
2. Determine the design air inlet, outlet, and ambient temperatures. List these in Figure
20 under Design Conditions. Air temperatures are indicated in the column headed
“Performance Data - Air Side” of Form 2716.
3. Determine the process-side design conditions specified by the contractor and list these
in Figure 20 under Design Conditions. Process-side design conditions are indicated on
Line 42 of Form 2716.
4. Determine if the process-side design conditions meet the requirements that are
specified in SAES-E-001. Refer to Step 3 of Part 1.
5. Determine if the air-side design inlet, outlet, and ambient temperatures meet the
requirements that are specified in Para. 3.14 of SAES-E-001.
6. Indicate the results of your evaluation in the last column of Figure 20.

Description Operating Design Acceptable

Conditions Conditions (Yes/No)
Process Max. Temperature, °C (°F)
Process Min. Temperature, °C (°F)
Process Inlet Pressure, kPa (psig)
Inlet Air Temperature, °C (°F) -
Outlet Air Temperature, °C (°F) -
Min. Ambient Temperature, °C (°F) -
Air-Cooled Heat Exchanger Design Condition Evaluation
Figure 20


DIMENSIONS FOR SHELL-AND-TUBE HEAT EXCHANGER COMPONENTS
The procedures in this Work Aid may be used to evaluate whether the dimensions that are
specified in a Contractor Design Package for a shell-and-tube heat exchanger meet Saudi
Aramco, TEMA, API-660, and ASME requirements. This Work Aid is divided into four
major parts as follows:
• Part 1 provides a general procedural-type checklist that should be used in all

cases.
• Part 2 is used for girth flanges and flat channel covers.
• Part 3 is used for stationary and floating end tubesheets.
• Part 4 is used for floating heads.
Part 1: General Requirements

The following procedural items should be checked in all cases.
1. Confirm that the specified dimensions are consistent in all drawings, specifications,
and calculations that are provided in the Contractor Design Package. This will be
done while checking the design details and dimensions in accordance with Parts 2
through 4 of this Work Aid.
2. Confirm that the dimensions and design details are in accordance with requirements
specified in 32-SAMSS-007, API-660, and the ASME Code. Further details on this
check are provided in Parts 2 through 4 of this Work Aid.
3. Confirm that all calculations are done in accordance with ASME Code procedures.
This may involve verification of the computer program that is used by the exchanger
manufacturer. For the purposes of this course, it may be assumed that the
CODECALC computer program that is being used has been verified.

Part 2: Girth Flanges and Flat Channel Covers

Use the following procedure to check computer calculations that have been made to verify the
design of a girth flange or a channel cover. This procedure is generic in that it may be applied
to calculations that have been done using most computer programs. However, because the
CODECALC program is used for all calculations that are done in this course, the parameter
names that are used in the CODECALC program are identified in parentheses where
appropriate.
The program input must be checked to ensure that it conforms to the flange design
requirements. The program output must be checked to ensure that it verifies the design that
has been used for the girth flange or cover plate.
In using this procedure, refer to Figure 21 for flange geometry and nomenclature.
Flange Geometry and Nomenclature
Figure 21

1. Verify that the correct flange type is specified. Heat exchanger girth flanges are
typically the integral weld neck flange. Permissible flange types are specified in
Appendix 2 of the ASME Code.
2. Verify that the specified design pressure (P) is equal to the pressure that is listed on the
specification sheet.
3. Verify that the specified design temperature is equal to the temperature listed on the
specification sheet.
4. For the girth flange, verify that the corrosion allowance (FCOR) is equal to the
corrosion allowance that is listed on the specification sheet.
For the flat channel cover, verify that the corrosion allowance is equal to the depth of
the pass partition groove in the channel cover.
5. Verify that the flange material is the same as the material listed on the specification
sheet.
6. Verify that the allowable stress for the flange or flat cover material conforms to the
allowable stress specified in the ASME Code. Note that many programs such as
CODECALC have the ASME allowable stress tables built into them and automatically
use the correct allowable stress.
7. Verify that the bolt material is the same as the material listed on the specification
sheet.
8. Verify that the allowable stress for the bolt material conforms to the allowable stress
specified in the ASME Code. Note that many programs such as CODECALC have the
ASME allowable stress tables built into them and automatically use the correct
allowable stress.
9. Verify that the flange inside diameter (B) is equal to the uncorroded (new) diameter
shown on the detailed drawing. This is not applicable for the flat channel cover.
10. Verify that the flange outside diameter (A) is equal to the uncorroded (new) diameter
shown on the detailed drawing.
11. Verify that the hub thickness at the small end of the flange (shell end, G0) is equal to
the uncorroded (new) thickness shown on the detailed drawing. This is not applicable
for the flat channel cover.

12. Verify that the hub thickness at the back of the flange (large end, G1) is equal
to the uncorroded (new) thickness shown on the detailed drawing. This is not
applicable for the flat channel cover.
13. Verify that the flange thickness (T) is equal to the uncorroded (new) thickness shown
on the detailed drawing.
14. Verify that the hub length (HL) is equal to the length shown on the detailed drawing.
This is not applicable for the flat channel cover.
15. Verify that the diameter of the bolt circle (C) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.
16. Verify that the bolt diameter (DB) is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
17. Verify that the thread series (SERIES) is identified as "TEMA."
18. Verify that the number of bolts is equal to the number shown on the detailed drawing.
19. For mating girth flanges that have a fixed tubesheet in between them, verify that the
following bolt loads have been specified based on calculations that have been made
for the opposite flange:
• Operating Bolt Load
• Gasket Seating Bolt Load
• Flange Design Bolt Load
These values are found from output information that is found in preliminary
calculations that are done for the flanges.
20. Verify that the gasket outside diameter is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
21. Verify that the flange face outside diameter (FOD) is equal to the diameter shown on
the detailed drawing.
22. Verify that the gasket inside diameter is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.

23. Verify that the flange face inside diameter (FID) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.
24. Verify that the gasket factor, m, is equal to the factor that is specified indicated in the
ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1, for the specified
gasket type.
25. Verify that the gasket design seating stress, y, is equal to the stress indicated in the
ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1 for the specified
gasket type.
26. Verify that the sketch number that is specified for the flange facing agrees with the
sketch number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table 2-5.2 for the type
of flange facing that is shown on the detailed drawing.
27. Verify that the column number (I or II) for the facing sketch agrees with the column
number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table 2-5.2 for the specified
gasket type.
28. Verify that the gasket thickness is equal to the dimension shown on the detailed
drawing.
29. Verify that the nubbin width (when a nubbin flange face is specified) is equal to the
dimension shown on the detailed drawing.
30. Verify that the length of the pass partition gasket is equal to the gasket inner diameter,
multiplied by the fraction Npp/Ng, where Npp is the width of the pass partition gasket
and Ng is the width of the girth flange gasket. This only applies for channel covers
when there is a pass partition plate in the channel.
31. Verify that the required bolt area (AM) is less than the actual total bolt area.
32. Verify that the actual bolt spacing lies between the minimum and maximum permitted
bolt spacings. The permitted spacings should have been determined based on TEMA
requirements.
33. Flange Stresses. Calculated and allowable stresses are output for the operating case
and for the gasket seating case. Confirm that the calculated stresses are all less than
the allowable stresses for each case. The following stresses must be checked:

• Longitudinal Hub Stress
• Radial Flange Stress
• Tangential Flange Stress
• Maximum Average Stress
• Bolt Stress
34. Verify that the Maximum Allowable Working Pressure for the corroded flange
(MAWP) is at least equal to the design pressure.
35. Verify that the required flange thickness, including corrosion allowance, is less than or
equal to the specified thickness (T) and the thickness that is shown on the detailed
drawing.
36. For channel covers, verify that the actual cover deflection is no more than the
deflection that is permitted by TEMA.

Part 3: Stationary and Floating Head Tubesheets

design of a tubesheet that is either stationary or at a floating head. This procedure is generic
in that it may be applied to calculations that have been done using most computer programs.
However, because the CODECALC program is used for all calculations that are done in this
course, the parameter names that are used in the CODECALC program are identified in
parentheses where appropriate.
The program input must be checked to ensure that it conforms to the tubesheet design
has been used for the tubesheet.
In using this procedure, refer to Figure 22 for tubesheet geometry and nomenclature.
Tubesheet Geometry and Nomenclature
Figure 22

1. Verify that the correct tubesheet type is specified and is consistent with information
that is contained in the detailed drawing. Several common tubesheets options are as
follows:
• Stationary, gasketed on both sides
• Stationary, integral with the shell
• Stationary, integral with the channel
• U-tube, gasketed on both sides
• U-tube, integral with the shell
• U-tube, integral with the channel
• Pull-through floating head
• Floating head with backing device
2. Verify that the specified design pressures for the shell side (PS) and channel sides (PC)
are each equal to the applicable pressures that are listed on the specification sheet.
3. Verify that the specified design temperature (TEMPTS) is equal to the temperature
listed on the specification sheet.
4. Verify that the materials for the shell, tubesheet, and channel are the same as the
materials listed on the specification sheet.
5. Verify that the allowable stresses for the shell, tubesheet, and channel conform to the
allowable stresses specified in the ASME Code. Note that many programs such as
CODECALC have the ASME allowable stress tables built into them and automatically
use the correct allowable stress.
6. Verify that the tubesheet thickness (TTS) is equal to the uncorroded (new) thickness
7. Verify that the shell-side and tube-side corrosion allowances (CAS and CAC) are
equal to the corrosion allowances listed on the specification sheet.

8. For gasketed tubesheets:
a. Verify that the gasket inside diameter and outside diameter equal the diameters
indicated in the detail drawing.
b. Verify that the flange face inside diameter (FID) and outside diameter (FOD)
equal the diameters indicated in the detail drawing.
c. Verify that the gasket factor, m, is equal to the factor that is specified indicated
in the ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1, for the
specified gasket type.
d. Verify that the gasket design seating stress, y, is equal to the stress indicated in
the ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1 for the
specified gasket type.
e. Verify that the sketch number that is specified for the flange facing agrees with
the sketch number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table 2-5.2
for the type of flange facing that is shown on the detailed drawing.
f. Verify that the column number (I or II) for the facing sketch agrees with the
column number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table
2-5.2 for the specified gasket type.
g. Verify that the gasket thickness is equal to the dimension shown on the detailed
drawing.
h. Verify that the nubbin width (when a nubbin flange face is specified) is equal
to the dimension shown on the detailed drawing.
I. Verify that the length of the pass partition gasket is equal to the gasket inner
diameter, multiplied by the fraction Npp/Ng, where Npp is the width of the pass
partition gasket and Ng is the width of the girth flange gasket. This requirement
only applies for channel covers when there is a pass partition plate in the
channel.
9. Verify that the tube outside diameter (DT) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.

10. Verify that the tube thickness (TT) is equal to the diameter thickness shown on the
detailed drawing.
11. Verify that the tube pitch (PT) matches the pitch shown on the detailed drawing.
12. Verify that the tube pattern (i.e., square or triangular) matches the pattern shown on
13. Verify that the depth of the pass partition groove (GROOVE) is equal to the depth
14. If the tubesheet is extended as a flange, verify that the outside diameter of the flanged
portion (DF) is consistent with what is shown on the detailed drawing.
15. If the tubesheet is extended as a flange, verify that the thickness of the flanged portion
(TF) is consistent with what is shown on the detailed drawing.
16. Verify that the diameter of the bolt circle (DB) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.
17. Verify that the bolt diameter (DBOLT) is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
18. Verify that the thread series is identified as "TEMA."
19. Verify that the number of bolts (NUMBER) is equal to the number shown on the
detailed drawing.
20. Verify that the actual tubesheet thickness is at least equal to the required thickness and
is consistent with what is shown on the detailed drawing.

Part 4: Floating Heads With and Without Backing Rings

design of a floating head. This procedure is generic in that it may be applied to calculations
that have been done using most computer programs. However, because the CODECALC
program is used for all calculations that are done in this course, the parameter names that are
used in the CODECALC program are identified in parentheses where appropriate.
The program input must be checked to ensure that it conforms to the floating head design
has been used for the floating head.
In using this procedure, refer to Figure 23 for floating head geometry and nomenclature.
Floating Head Geometry and Nomenclature
Figure 23
1. Verify that the specified floating head type is consistent with what is shown in the
detailed drawing. The most common type is Type (d) as described in Appendix 1-6 in
the ASME Code.
2. Verify that the specified design temperature (TEMP) is equal to the temperature listed
on the specification sheet.

3. Verify that the specified tube-side design pressure (P.S.) is equal to the pressure listed
on the specification sheet.
4. Verify that the specified shell-side design pressures (PSS) is equal to the pressure
listed on the specification sheet.
5. Verify that the specified tube-side corrosion allowance (CATS) is equal to the
corrosion allowance listed on the specification sheet.
6. Verify that the shell-side corrosion allowance (CASS) is equal to the corrosion
allowance listed on the specification sheet.
7. Verify that the materials for the head, flange, bolts, and backing ring are the same as
the materials listed on the specification sheet.
8. Verify that the allowable stresses for the head, flange, bolts, and backing ring conform
to the allowable stresses specified in the ASME Code. Note that many programs such
as CODECALC have the ASME allowable stress tables built into them and
automatically use the correct allowable stress.
9. Verify that the crown radius of the head (CR) is consistent with what is specified on
10. Verify that the inside diameter of the flange (FID) is consistent with what is specified
11. Verify that the outside diameter of the flange (FOD) is consistent with what is
specified on the detailed drawing.
12. Verify that the inside diameter of the backing ring (DR) is consistent with what is
13. Verify that the actual thickness of the head (TH) is consistent with what is specified on
14. Verify that the actual thickness of the flange (TC) is consistent with what is specified
15. Verify that the actual thickness of the backing ring (TR) is consistent with what is

16. Verify that the number of splits in the backing ring (NSPLIT) is consistent with what
is specified on the detailed drawing.
17. Verify that the distance between the centroid of the flange and the attachment point at
the head centerline is consistent with what is specified on the detailed drawing.
18. Refer to the detailed drawing to determine whether the flange is or is not slotted and
verify that the appropriate detail is specified in the calculations. The flange will
normally not be slotted.
19. Verify that the diameter of the bolt circle (DB) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.
20. Verify that the bolt diameter (DBOLT) is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
21. Verify that the thread series is identified as "TEMA."
22. Verify that the number of bolts is equal to the number shown on the detailed drawing.
23. Verify that the gasket type and material that is used is consistent with what is shown
24. Verify that the gasket outside diameter is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
25. Verify that the flange face outside diameter (FOD) is equal to the diameter shown on
26. Verify that the gasket inside diameter is equal to the diameter shown on the detailed
drawing.
27. Verify that the flange face inside diameter (FID) is equal to the diameter shown on the
detailed drawing.
28. Verify that the gasket factor, m, is equal to the factor that is specified indicated in the
ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1, for the specified
gasket type.

29. Verify that the gasket design seating stress, y, is equal to the stress indicated in the
ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Appendix 2, Table 2-5.1 for the specified
gasket type.
30. Verify that the sketch number that is specified for the flange facing agrees with the
sketch number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table 2-5.2 for the type
of flange facing that is shown on the detailed drawing.
31. Verify that the column number (I or II) for the facing sketch agrees with the column
number listed in ASME Code, Section VIII, Division 1, Table 2-5.2 for the specified
gasket type.
32. Verify that the gasket thickness is equal to the dimension shown on the detailed
drawing.
33. Verify that the nubbin width (when a nubbin flange face is specified) is equal to the
dimension shown on the detailed drawing.
34. Verify that the length of the pass partition gasket is equal to the gasket inner diameter,
multiplied by the fraction Npp/Ng, where Npp is the width of the pass partition gasket
and Ng is the width of the girth flange gasket. This only applies for channel covers
when there is a pass partition plate in the channel.
35. Verify that the actual thickness of the head is at least equal to the minimum required
thickness (considering the corrosion allowances) and is consistent with what is shown
36. Verify that the actual thickness of the flange is at least equal to the minimum required
thickness (considering the corrosion allowances) and is consistent with what is shown
37. Verify that the actual thickness of the backing ring is at least equal to the minimum
required thickness (considering the corrosion allowances) and is consistent with what
is shown on the detailed drawing.


DESIGNS FOR AIR-COOLED HEAT EXCHANGER TUBE BUNDLES AND
HEADERS
The procedures in this Work Aid may be used to evaluate whether the tube bundle and header
designs that are specified in a Contractor Design Package for an air-cooled heat exchanger
meet Saudi Aramco, API-661, and ASME requirements. This Work Aid is divided into three
major parts as follows:
• Part 1 provides a general procedural-type checklist that should be used in all

cases.
• Part 2 provides a procedure for checking compliance with the requirements that
are contained in 32-SAMSS-011 and API-661.
• Part 3 provides a procedure for evaluating whether the mechanical design

calculations are in accordance with the ASME Code. It is assumed that a
computer program has been used for these calculations.
Part 1: General Requirements

The following procedural items should be checked in all cases.
1. Confirm that the specified dimensions are consistent in all drawings, specifications,
and calculations that are provided in the Contractor Design Package. This will be
done while checking the design details and dimensions in accordance with Parts 2 and
3 of this Work Aid.
2. Confirm that the dimensions and design details are in accordance with requirements
specified in 32-SAMSS-011, API-661, and the ASME Code. Further details on this
check are provided in Part 2 of this Work Aid.
3. Confirm that all calculations are done in accordance with ASME Code procedures.
This may involve verification of the computer program that is used by the exchanger
manufacturer. For the purposes of this course, it may be assumed that the
CODECALC computer program that is being used has been verified.

Part 2: 32-SAMSS-011 and API-661 Requirements

Use the procedure that follows to determine whether the requirements that are specified in 32-
SAMSS-011 and API-661 have been met. The paragraph references that are indicated are in
API-661 unless otherwise noted. For each requirement, circle “Yes” or “No” depending on
whether the requirement has been met or not.
Overall Tube Bundle Design Requirements

1. Par. 5.1.1.1. Is the tube bundle designed to be rigid for handling as a complete
assembly? Yes/No.
2. Par. 5.1.1.3. Has provision for at least 6 mm (1/4 in.) of lateral movement in both
directions and 13 mm ( 1/2 in.) of lateral movement in one direction been provided?
Yes/No.
3. Par. 5.1.1.4. Has provision been made in the design to accommodate the thermal
expansion of the tubes? Yes/No.
4. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.1.4. Do the bundle and the structural mounting have Teflon
slide plates at the moving end? Yes/No.
5. Par. 5.1.1.5. Are the tube supports no more than 1.83 m (6 ft.) from center to center?
Yes/No.
6. Par. 5.1.1.6. Are structural hold-downs provided at each tube support? Yes/No.
7. Par. 5.1.1.7. Are tubes of single-pass condensers and all heating coils sloped
downward at 10 mm per meter (1/8 in. per ft.) toward the outlet header? Yes/No.
8. Par. 5.1.1.8. Are air seals provided throughout the bundle to minimize air leakage?
Yes/No. Any air gap that is more than 10 mm (3/8 in.) wide is excessive.
9. Par. 5.1.1.9. Is 12 gage (2.8 mm [0.105 in.]) minimum thickness used for air seal
construction? Yes/No.
10. Par. 5.1.1.10. Are bolts for removable air seals at least 10 mm (3/8 in.) nominal
diameter? Yes/No.

11. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.1.11. Do the tube ends extend beyond the tubesheet
3 mm ±1.5 mm (1/8 in. ± 1/16 in.)? Yes/No.
12. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.1.12. Are tube spacers designed so that they do not rely on
the outer periphery of the fins for bearing, and do the spacers prevent the fins from
meshing? Yes/No.
Tube Wall Minimum Thickness

13. Par. 5.1.12.1. Does the diameter of the prime tube equal the recommended minimum
of 25.4 mm (1 in.)? Yes/No.
14. Par. 5.1.12.3. Does the minimum tube wall thickness meet the requirements shown in
Figure 24? Yes/No.
Tube Material Minimum Required

Thickness, mm (in.)
Carbon and Low-Alloy Steels (Through 9% Chrome) 2.74 (0.108)
High-Alloys Steels (Austenitic and Ferritic) 1.65 (0.065)
Copper or Aluminum Alloy 2.11 (0.083)
Titanium 1.24 (0.049)
Minimum Required Tube Thicknesses
Figure 24
Selection of Tube Fins

15. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.12.7. Do the type of tube fins meet the requirements
specified in Figure 25? Yes/No.

Fin Type Use Limitations
Tension Auxiliary coolers and lube oil coolers at temperatures less than 95°C
wound (200°F)
Extruded Temperatures less than 260°C (500°F)
Embedded Temperatures less than 400°C (750°F)
Other types Must be approved by the buyer. Consult CSD as required.
Limitations on Fin Types
Figure 25
Header Design Requirements

16. Par. 5.1.5.2. If the differential design temperature of any adjacent tube pass is over
111°C (200°F), is a split header design, U-tube design, or other means used to
accommodate differential thermal expansion between the adjacent tube passes?
Yes/No.
17. Par. 5.1.5.5. Are the minimum thicknesses of header box components in accordance
with Figure 26 ? Yes/No.

Component Carbon or Low-Alloy Steel High-Alloy Steel or

Other Materials
Tubesheet 20 mm (3/4 in.)* 16 mm (5/8 in. )*
Plug sheet 20 mm (3/4 in.) 16 mm (5/8 in.)
Top, bottom, and end 12 mm (1/2 in.) 10 mm (3/8 in.)

plates
Removable cover 25 mm (1 in.) 25 mm (1 in.)

plates
* 25.4 mm (1 in.) minimum thickness including corrosion allowance per Par. 5.1.5.5 of 32-SAMSS-011.
Minimum Required Thickness of Header Box Components
Figure 26
18. Par 5.1.5.6. Does the minimum pass partition plate thickness meet the requirements in
Figure 27? Yes/No.
Pass Partition Plate Minimum Required

Material Thickness, mm (in.)
Carbon and Low-Alloy Steels 12 (1/2) *
Nonferrous High-Alloy Steel 6 (1/4)
* Includes up to 3 mm (1/8 in.) corrosion allowance on each side.
Pass Partition Plate Thickness
Figure 27
19. 32-SAMSS-011, Par 5.1.5.7. Does the header box type meet the requirements in
Figure 28? Yes/No.

Exchanger Service Header Box Type
Process Cooler Plug Type Header
Lube Oil Cooler or Seal Oil Cooler Removable Cover or Cover Plate if less than
1 750 kPa (250 psig)
Header Box Type
Figure 28
Headers: Removable-Cover-Plate and Removable-Bonnet-Type

20. Par 5.1.6.5. Are jackscrews or a 5 mm (3/16 in.) clearance provided at the cover
periphery to facilitate dismantling? Yes/No.
21. Par 5.1.6.8. Is the minimum diameter of stud bolts 20 mm (3/4 in.)? Yes/No. Is the
minimum diameter of through bolts 16 mm (5/8 in.)? Yes/No.
22. Par 5.1.6.9. Does the bolt spacing exceed the maximum spacing requirements (refer to
API-661 directly)? Yes/No.
23. Par 5.1.6.10. Is the bolt spacing less than the minimum spacing that is specified in
Table 1 of API-661? Yes/No.
24. Par 5.1.6.11. For bolts that straddle the corners, does the diagonal distance meet the
maximum bolt spacing criteria? Yes/No.
Headers: Plug-Type
25. Par 5.1.7.2. Does the diameter of the tube plug holes equal the nominal outside
diameter of the tube plus 0.8 mm (1/32 in.) minimum? Yes/No.
26. Par 5.1.7.3. Is the gasket surface of the tubesheet plug hole spot faced? Yes/No.
27. Par 5.1.8.7. Are threaded plugs that are 40 mm (1-1/2 in.) and less in diameter Unified
Fine Thread in accordance with ANSI B1.1? Yes/No.
28. Par 5.1.8.8. Are threaded plugs that are greater than 40 mm (1-1/2 in.) in diameter 12
thread series per ANSI B1.1? Yes/No.

Gasket Requirements
29. Par 5.1.9.1. Are gaskets for tube access plugs solid metal or double-metal-jacketed
type and of the same material classification as the plug? Yes/No.
30. Par 5.1.9.2. Are cover plate gaskets for flat covers and bonnets double-jacketed, non-
asbestos filled type? Yes/No. Per 32-SAMSS-011, if the pressure does not exceed 2
100 kPa (300 psig), a synthetic gasket with parting agent on both sides of the gasket
may be used in water, lube oil, and seal oil services.
31. Par 5.1.9.3 and Par 5.1.9.4. Are cover plate gaskets a minimum width of 9 mm (3/8
in.), and are the gaskets of one piece construction? Yes/No.
Nozzles and Other Connections

32. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.10.4. If nozzles are made from pipe, is only seamless pipe
used? Yes/No.
If the connections are 50 mm (2 in.) or smaller, is the thickness Schedule 80

minimum? Yes/No.
33. 32-SAMSS-011, Par 5.1.10.15. For small diameter connections, are bosses used per
Saudi Aramco Standard Drawings AE-036175 or AE-036367? Yes/No.
34. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.10.18. Do nozzles protrude beyond the inside surface of the
header? Yes/No. If “Yes,” they are in violation of this requirement.
35. 32-SAMSS-011, Par. 5.1.10.19. If the header is lined with a corrosion resistant
material, are the nozzles also lined in the same manner? Yes/No.

Part 3: ASME Code Calculations for Header Box Plate Thicknesses

Use the procedure that is summarized in Figure 29 to check computer calculations that have
been made to verify the design of a header box for an air-cooled heat exchanger. This
procedure is generic in that it may be applied to calculations that have been done using most
computer programs. However, because the CODECALC program is used for all calculations
that are done in this course, the parameter names that are used in the CODECALC program
are identified in parentheses where appropriate.
The program input must be checked to ensure that it conforms to the header box design
has been used for the header box.
In using this procedure, refer to Figure 30 for header box geometry and nomenclature.
Step Item to Verify Information

Source
1 Correct Header Box Type Has Been Selected for Detailed Drawing
Analysis. Several common options are as follows:
• Equal or unequal thicknesses of the long-side plates.
• One or two internal stay plates.
• External reinforcement.
2 Design Pressure (P) Form 2716
3 Design Temperature (TEMP) Form 2716
4 Material Specifications for the Header Box Components Form 2716
and Stay Plates
Header Box Calculation Verification Procedure
Figure 29


Source
5 Allowable Stresses and Minimum Yield Stresses for ASME Code
Header Box Components and Stay Plates Conform to
ASME Code.
Note: Many programs such as CODECALC have the
ASME allowable stress tables built into them and
automatically use the correct allowable stress.
6 Short-Side Length Dimension (H). The new, uncorroded Detailed Drawing
length should be input.
7 Minimum Thickness of the Short-Side Plates (t1). The Detailed Drawing
new, uncorroded thickness should be input.
8 Mid-side joint efficiency on the short side (E) in ASME Code
accordance with the ASME Code and consistent with the
Detailed Drawing
radiographic inspection specified on the detailed
drawing.
• If no long seam, then E = 1.0.
• If 100% RT, then E = 1.0.
• If Spot RT, then E = 0.85.
• If no RT, then E = 0.70.
9 Corner joint efficiency on the short side (EC) in ASME Code
Detailed Drawing
drawing. See Step 8.
10 Long-Side Length Dimension (h). Detailed Drawing
11 Minimum Thickness of the Long-Side Plates (t2). The Detailed Drawing
new, uncorroded thickness should be input.
Header Box Calculation Verification Procedure, cont'd
Figure 29


Source
12 Mid-side joint efficiency on the long side (E) is in ASME Code
Detailed Drawing
drawing. See Step 8.
13 Minimum Thickness of the End Plates (t5). The new, Detailed Drawing
uncorroded thickness should be input.
14 Corrosion Allowance of the Shell Form 2716
15 Tube Hole Pitch Distance (p) Detailed Drawing
16 Tube Hole Diameter. Each hole may have multiple Detailed Drawing
diameters (i.e., d0, d1, d2).
17 Depth of the Holes. Each hole diameter will have a Detailed Drawing
specific depth (i.e., T0, T1, T2).
18 Plug Hole Pitch Distance (p) Detailed Drawing
19 Plug Hole Dimensions Detailed Drawing
20 Minimum Thickness of Stay Plate (t3, t4) Detailed Drawing
21 Corrosion Allowance of Stay Plate Form 2716
22 Membrane Stress, Bending Stress, and Total Stress in Computer Output
the Short-Side Plates, Long-Side Plates, End Plates, and
at the Corner Sections. Check that actual stresses are
below the corresponding allowable stresses.
23 MAWP based on Membrane Stress, Bending Stress, and Computer Output
Total Stress. MAWP for the exchanger is the lowest of
the calculated values, and should be above the design
pressure.
Header Box Calculation Verification Procedure, cont'd
Figure 29

Header Box Geometry and Nomenclature
Figure 30

PLATE WITH MULTIDIAMETER HOLES
Header Box Geometry and Nomenclature, cont'd
Figure 30, cont'd

WORK AID 4: PROCEDURE FOR COMPLETING A SHELL-AND-TUBE HEAT

EXCHANGER SAFETY INSTRUCTION SHEET
Use the procedural steps that are contained in SAES-A-005, Preparation of Safety Instruction
Sheets, to complete Safety Instruction Sheets for shell-and-tube heat exchangers, Form 2713.
The key numbers that are indicated in the procedure are shown on the edited Form 2713 in
Figure 33. A copy of SAES-A-005 is contained in Course Handout 2.
Most of the procedural steps that are contained in SAES-A-005 are straightforward and do not
require further explanation. The following additional procedural information is provided to
assist in completing several of the key number items.
1. Key Number 22 - Determine the Basis for Calculated Test Pressure on the Shell Side
Review the manufacturer's calculations and determine the Maximum Allowable

Pressure New and Cold ( MAPNC) for the components that are listed in Figure 31.
List these values in the column headed MAPNC:
Component MAPNC
Shell
Shell Cover
Shell Cover Flange
Shell Flange Mating to Cover Flange
Shell Girth Flange at Tubesheet
Fixed Tubesheet (maximum shell-side pressure)
Tubes (maximum external pressure)
Floating Tubesheet (maximum shell-side pressure)
Floating Head (maximum shell-side pressure)
Floating Head Flange (maximum shell-side pressure)
Components That May Determine Shell-Side MAPNC
Figure 31

The basis for calculated test pressure on the shell side is the minimum of the MAPNCs
listed above. Use the shell-side design pressure if the MAPNCs for the components
are not provided in the contractor calculations.
2. Key Number 34 - Determine the Basis for Calculated Test Pressure on the Tube Side
Review the manufacturer's calculations and determine the MAPNC for the components
in Figure 32. List these values under the Column headed MAPNC:
Component MAPNC
Channel
Channel Cover
Channel Cover Flange
Channel Girth Flange at Tubesheet
Fixed Tubesheet (maximum tube-side pressure)
Tubes (maximum internal pressure)
Floating Tubesheet ( maximum tube-side pressure)
Floating Head (maximum tube-side pressure)
Floating Head Flange (maximum tube-side pressure)
Components That May Determine Tube-Side MAPNC
Figure 32
The basis for calculated test pressure on the tube side is the minimum of the MAPNCs
listed above. Use the tube-side design pressure if the MAPNCs for the components
are not provided in the contractor calculations.
3. Key Numbers 62 and 72 - Determine the tm's for Each Component.

Review the contractor's calculations and look for the minimum required thickness, tm,
of each component.
• If the minimum required thickness is indicated exclusive of the nominal

corrosion allowance, this is the tm for the component.
• If the minimum required thickness includes a corrosion allowance, subtract the

nominal corrosion allowance from the minimum thickness that was determined
by the manufacturer. This is the tm.
• If the minimum required thickness of the part is not known, subtract the
nominal corrosion allowance from the nominal thickness and assume that this
is the tm for the component.

WORK AID 4: PROCEDURE FOR COMPLETING A SHELL-AND-TUBE HEAT

EXCHANGER SAFETY INSTRUCTION SHEET, CONT'D
Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger Safety Instruction Sheet Form 2713
Figure 33

GLOSSARY
BWG Birmingham Wire Gauge. A standard measure of plate

thickness as designated by a specific BWG number. Each
BWG number corresponds to a specific thickness in inches.
embedded fin A rectangular cross section, aluminum fin that is wrapped

under tension and mechanically embedded in a groove that is
spirally cut into the surface of the tube.
footed fin An L-shaped aluminum fin that is wrapped under tension over
the outside surface of a tube with the tube fully covered by
the feet between the fins. The fin ends are secured to prevent
loosening or unraveling of the fins under the design
conditions.
integral fin An aluminum outer tube from which fins have been formed
by extrusion and then mechanically bonded to an inner tube.
overlapped footed fin An L-shaped aluminum fin that is wrapped under tension over
the outside surface of a tube, with the tube fully covered by
the overlapped feet that are under and between the fins. The
fin ends are secured to prevent loosening or unraveling of the
fins under the design conditions.

Specifying Design Requirements For Heat Ex Changers

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Engineering Encyclopedia

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Chapter : Vessels For additional information on this subject, contact

USE OF SAUDI ARAMCO DESIGN SPECIFICATION SHEETS IN

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DIMENSIONS FOR

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Header Design Requirements........................................................................................ 41

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

Part 2: 32-SAMSS-011 and API-661 Requirements ..................................................... 69

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards

USE OF SAUDI ARAMCO DESIGN SPECIFICATION SHEETS IN HEAT

Use of Heat Exchanger Data Sheets

Data Sheet for Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 1

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 2

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 3

General Procurement Information

• Type (TEMA Designation)

• Sour Wet Service/Lethal

• Service Condition (Cyclic/Noncyclic)

• Per unit (shells in series and shells in parallel)

• Saudi Aramco Order No.

• Manufacturer's Order Number

• Manufacturers Drawing Number

• Total Effective Surface Area and No. of Shells per Unit

• Effective Surface per Shell

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 4

Section A. Process/Performance Data of One Unit

Section B. Construction Data of One Shell

• Nozzle Data (Size, Number, Rating, Facing)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 5

The following design information is normally completed by the contractor or the

• Number of Passes per Shell

• Shell I.D. and O.D.

• Standards of the Tubular Exchangers Manufacturer's Association (TEMA)

• Saudi Aramco Material System Specification 32-SAMSS-007

• Saudi Aramco Standard Heat Exchanger Type (Yes/No)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 6

Data Sheet for Air-Cooled Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 7

General Procurement Information

Performance Data Section

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 8

• Nozzle Data (Size, Number, Rating, Facing)

• TI and PI connections (Sizes, Number, Reference Details)

• ASME Code Stamping Requirements (Yes/No)

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 9

EVALUATING CONTRACTOR-SPECIFIED DESIGN CONDITIONS FOR TEMA-

TEMA-Type Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 10

Heat Exchanger Design Conditions

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 11

Components Designed for Components Designed for Components Designed for

Design Conditions for Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchanger Components

Shells and Heads

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 12

All these aspects of nozzle design were discussed in MEX 202.

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 13

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 14

Nonpressure Containing Components - Nonpressure containing components include tie-rods,

Saudi Aramco DeskTop Standards 15