HEAT EXCHANGER TUBE SHEET
A tube sheet is a vital part made from a round flat plate with holes drilled to fit tubes or pipes precisely. It’s commonly used to support and isolate tubes in heat exchangers, boilers, or to help filter elements. Tubes are attached to the sheet either by hydraulic pressure or roller expansion. To prevent corrosion and provide insulation, a tube sheet may have a cladding material. Another cost-effective option is adding a layer of higher alloy metal on low carbon steel tube sheets for strong corrosion resistance.
Tube sheets are well-known for supporting tubes in heat exchangers and boilers. These devices have thin-walled tubes arranged inside a tubular shell. The sheets, drilled strategically, support the tubes on both ends. Tube ends penetrate the sheet, and then they are expanded to secure them in place and create a seal. The tube hole pattern, or “pitch,” varies in distance and angle, allowing precise control of fluid velocities, pressure drop, and maximizing heat transfer efficiency.
In cases where avoiding fluid mixing is crucial, a double tube sheet is used. Designing tube sheets requires precision in determining the number of tubes and calculating a hole pattern for even distribution. Computer software like CAD automates this process for large-scale applications with thousands of tubes. Computer numerical control (CNC) machines handle the drilling, ensuring accuracy. The outer tube sheet is positioned outside the shell circuit, reducing the risk of fluid mixing, while the inner tube sheet is vented, making fluid leaks easy to detect.
For top-quality tube sheets, TYA flange factory’s drilling department has professional equipment and a skilled team to meet your specific needs.