Heat Transfer

At the end of this topic you should be able to: Recognise the different heat exchange mechanisms Identify the options for heat transfer in chemical reactors Distinguish between the different types of external heat exchangers Name common heat exchange media

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Heat Transfer


Energy transfer in the form of heat is part of almost all chemical processes. Estimating and controlling the rate of heat flow in chemical reactors, separation processes, furnaces and boilers represent important factors in plant design and operation. Efficient energy utilisation is also important.
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Driving Force


Temperature difference


Heat only flows from a hotter to a colder part of a system.

Q ! UA ( T
Q = heat transfer rate U = heat transfer coefficient A = heat transfer area T = Temperature difference (oC)

Because of relationship between heat transfer rate and area, heat transfer equipment is often designed to have large heat transfer surface areas

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Mechanisms


Conduction


Transfer of heat energy between molecules in a fluid or a solid (e.g. heating metal bar from one end).

Convection


This is the transfer of heat through the movement of warmed matter i.e. through currents.

Radiation


Electromagnetic waves transfer heat through space

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Identify the types of heat transfer occurring in this picture

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Heat transfer in chemical reactors



 

Most chemical reactions need an initial supply of heat Most chemical reactions are exothermic. Therefore during chemical processing the reactor design must include provision for heat transfer.

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Heat transfer in chemical reactors

The options are: (a) A heat transfer jacket on the reactor (b) Internal coils in the reactor (c) Limpet coils external to the vessel (d) An external heat exchanger through which the reactor contents are recirculated.

(a) Jacket (b) Internal coil

(c) Limpet coils

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Continuous Flow Heat Exchangers



Very convenient when both materials are fluids Two fluids, primary and secondary, flow continuously through the heat exchanger Heat exchange is controlled by the local temperature differences and heat transfer coefficients at any point in the equipment

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Continuous Flow Heat Exchangers

  

Co-current (parallel flow): Fluids flow in the same direction. Counter current flow: Fluids flow in opposite directions. Cross Flow: Fluids flow at right angles to each other.

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Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

  

One fluid passes through a bank of tubes The other fluid passes outside the tubes The efficiency of the transfer is increased by maximising the contact between the hot and cold fluids.
Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers

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Plate Exchangers


 

Formed by bolting together a series of corrugated plates separated by synthetic rubber or plastic gaskets Bolted together in frame The fluids pass through alternate spaces between the plates and in opposite directions.

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Graphite Block/Leaf Heat Exchangers



    

Constructed from blocks of graphite with passages bored through or leaves of graphite Fluids flow in opposite directions through these passages Can to handle corrosive liquids and vapours Thermal conductivity very similar to most metals Brittle - must be handled with care during installation and maintenance Used in conjunction with glasslined and hastelloy reactors.

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Spiral Flow Heat Exchanger



The hot fluid enters at the centre of the unit and flows from the inside outward. The cold fluids enter at the periphery and flows towards the centre. Circular motion makes it easier to achieve turbulent conditions. Good for cooling/heating slurries/ viscous liquids etc.

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Heat Transfer Media

       

Cold Water (for heating and cooling) Hot Water (for heating and cooling) Steam (for heating) Glycol (used mostly for cooling) Brine (for cooling) Methanol/water mixtures (used for cooling) Liquid nitrogen (for cooling) Dowtherm/paratherm etc. (for both heating and cooling) Use of tempered loop
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Activity
      

The domestic radiator what mechanism of heat transfer is in operation, convection, conduction or radiation? Why do radiators often have fins? Identify the benefits and drawbacks of internal coils for heat transfer in reactors. What type of fluid flow is most desirable in a heat exchanger?Give a reason for your choice. What treatment should water receive before being used as a heat transfer fluid? Identify the benefits of using a proprietary heat transfer fluid such as Dowtherm, rather than a water/steam combination. Comment on the following configuration: A graphite block condenser (heat exchanger) coupled to a stainless steel vessel.

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