Fluid temperature and velocity effect on fouling

• Published in: Applied thermal engineering Vol. 27; no. 16; pp. 2732 - 2744
• Main Authors: Kukulka, David J., Devgun, Mohan
• Format: Journal Article Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Published: Oxford Elsevier Ltd 01-11-2007; Elsevier
• Subjects: Applied sciences; Devices using thermal energy; Energy; Energy. Thermal use of fuels; Exact sciences and technology; Fouling; Heat exchanger design; Heat exchanger fouling; Heat exchangers (included heat transformers, condensers, cooling towers); Heat transfer; Surface finish; Surface roughness; Theoretical studies. Data and constants. Metering; Transient; Surface finish; Heat exchanger fouling; Surface roughness; Fouling; Transient; Heat exchanger design; Roughness; Unsteady state; Heat recovery; Plate; Prevention; Flow(fluid); Heat exchanger; Energy transfer; Heat transfer
• ISSN: 1359-4311
• DOI: 10.1016/j.applthermaleng.2007.03.024

A wide variety of industrial processes involve the transfer of heat energy between fluids in process equipment. As a result of this energy exchange unwanted deposits accumulate on the process surfaces causing a resistance to energy transfer. These deposits reduce the heat recovery and can restrict fluid flow in the exchanger by narrowing the flow area. Prevention and control of fouling is costly and time consuming. In many situations, fouling can be reduced but not necessarily eliminated. Fouling is a major unresolved problem in heat transfer.
In general, the heat exchangers evaluated in this study were exposed to untreated lake water for typical conditions. After the prescribed time period the exchangers were taken off line and evaluated. Conclusions and observations regarding fouling of brazed heat exchangers, exposed to once-through lake water, are presented here. Transient observations and photographs of the exchanger surfaces are given. Results are presented that compare these heat exchangers to test plates, also exposed to lake water. The progressive change of surface appearance with increasing immersion times is presented.