Analysis method of temperature fields in tubesheets of tubular heat exchangers

A simplified analysis method of temperature fields of heat exchangers is proposed by axisymmetrical finite element method. Two steps, element analysis and general structure analysis, are involved in the method. In general the tubed zone is simulated as a homogeneous and transversely isotropic solid plate with internal heat source (or sink). The intensity of heat source is calculated according to the quantity of heat convection from fluid in tubes to tubesheet on basis of element analysis. The thermal resistance at the interfaces between inner walls of holes of tubesheet and outer walls of expanded tubes is considered in the element analysis. It is concluded that the significant temperature gradient exists at the intermediate zone between tubed and untubed zone of the tubesheet and at the junction of tubesheet and shell. The results show that diminution of 'thermal shin effect' in tubesheet is caused by the thermal resistance existing across the interface of tubes and tubesheet as well