What is a primary function of baffles in a shell and tube condenser?

What is a primary function of baffles in a shell and tube condenser?

• A. Regulating refrigerant flow
• B. Enhancing heat exchange
• C. Collecting droplets of refrigerant
• D. Supporting the condenser structure

Answer: (C)

A primary function of baffles in a shell and tube condenser is to enhance heat exchange. Baffles serve to direct the flow of the coolant or refrigerant within the condenser, which increases the velocity of the fluid and promotes better contact between the coolant and the tube surfaces. This improved flow path allows for more efficient heat transfer from the refrigerant inside the tubes to the cooling medium outside the tubes. Baffles also help in optimizing the temperature differences necessary for effective condensation, thereby maximizing the overall efficiency of the heat exchange process. By ensuring that the fluid moves in a more turbulent manner, baffles prevent the formation of stagnant areas, which can reduce the efficacy of heat transfer.

A primary function of baffles in a shell and tube condenser is to enhance heat exchange. Baffles serve to direct the flow of the coolant or refrigerant within the condenser, which increases the velocity of the fluid and promotes better contact between the coolant and the tube surfaces. This improved flow path allows for more efficient heat transfer from the refrigerant inside the tubes to the cooling medium outside the tubes.

Baffles also help in optimizing the temperature differences necessary for effective condensation, thereby maximizing the overall efficiency of the heat exchange process. By ensuring that the fluid moves in a more turbulent manner, baffles prevent the formation of stagnant areas, which can reduce the efficacy of heat transfer.