The issue of the size of the heat exchange tubes in waste heat boilers
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I am currently designing a waste heat boiler in which water flows inside the tubes while high-temperature exhaust gas flows outside the shell; natural circulation is used for heat transfer. In previous similar projects, heat exchange tubes of diameter φ25*2 were used without any problems. This time, I want to switch to heat exchange tubes of diameter φ19*2. My supervisor is concerned that such small tubes might affect natural flow or create fluid resistance, but I don’t think there will be any issues as long as the number of tubes is increased to ensure an adequate total flow area for the water. I was wondering if anyone has encountered similar projects using φ19*2 tubes; I would appreciate your insights! ! Thank you very much!
Personal suggestion: Theoretically, there should be no problem, but the piping resistance will definitely increase; if the flow is natural, it will affect the heat exchange efficiency