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• Thermal Shock in Heat Exchangers. Degree of Temperature change per time is the key factor to take a decision whether any heat exchanger is likely to undergo a thermal shock or not. Is there any formula for computing this limit of danger for taking immediate prevention action?

  T1 and T2 - Temperature range of colder side

  T3 and T4 - Temperature range of Hotter side
  Needless to say T1<T2<T3<T4.

  Boiling point of the Colder fluid is very well higher than T4. How will it be possible for the colder fluid to boil and evaporate vigorously to attain Thermal shock status when its Boiling point is very well higher than T4?

  What are the control and prevention means to ensure and avoid Thermal shocks?

  Dec-2023

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Answers

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• Peter Grant, Nelson Mandela University, petergrant2309@gmail.com

  You explained it already Degree of Temperature change per time is the key factor.

  Thermal shock is about sudden heat rise leading to rapid and uneven heat expansion of the metals of the heat exchanger. Boiling of the cooling fluid can might cause over-pressurise in the cooling side.

  Avoid thermal shock by slow introduction of hot side fluid. i.e. Limit the Degree of Temperature change per time.

  Dec-2023