Method for calculating the hydrostatic test value of the shell side in fixed-tube-sheet heat exchangers in SW6
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I was wondering if anyone has noticed this issue: in the calculations for fixed-tube-sheet heat exchangers in SW6, when determining the hydrostatic test pressure for the shell side, why is the formula used to calculate the hydrostatic test pressure for the heat exchange tubes not the external pressure formula Pt=1.25P, but rather the formula used for internal-pressure vessels? I would appreciate everyone’s insights. Thank you
1. During the internal pressure test of the shell side, the strength of the shell and the tube sheet are considered, as well as the strength of the joints between the heat exchange tubes and the tube sheet, the welds on the cylinder body, openings, and nozzles. The main purpose of this test is to verify the capacity of the shell side materials to withstand internal pressure; it is not intended to test the resistance of the heat exchange tubes to external pressure. 2. Regarding the capacity of the heat exchange tubes to withstand external pressure, separate tests for bearing external pressure and bearing internal pressure (or burst pressure) are required. It is not experienced during the pressure tests of the tube side or shell side; rather, it needs to be completed first after passing separate tests, before the heat exchange tubes are installed