On how to select flow velocity in heat exchanger design
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What is the importance of flow rate selection in heat exchanger design, and what factors should be considered when choosing the flow rate?
The main factors controlling the flow rates in the shell side and tube side of a heat exchanger are the pressure drop and the heat transfer coefficient (Re number). Therefore, while ensuring that the pressure drop remains within acceptable limits, the flow rates should be increased as much as possible to raise the heat transfer coefficient (Re number). As a result, the number of tubes per side should be kept as low as possible, and the spacing between the baffle plates should not be too large.
I agree with the view above: an increased flow rate can raise the heat transfer coefficient
I would like to add that sometimes, factors such as the formation of fouling in fluids and corrosion can also affect the design of flow rates. For specific recommended values for flow rates, the original poster can refer to chemical process design manuals.