The shell and tube type condenser consists of a cylindrical steel shell containing a number of straight water tubes, placed horizontally. Refer Fig. 1. The condenser tubes are made either from steel or copper, With or without fins. The steel tubes without fins are generally used in ammonia refrigerating systems, because ammonia corrodes the copper tubing. The tube sheets are welded to the shell at both the ends. The removable cover boxes are provided to the shell at each end to facilitate the cleaning of condenser. The intermediate supports are provided in the shell to avoid sagging (i.e. hanging down or bending) of the tubes.
Working of Shell and Tube Condenser
In this type of condenser, the hot vapour refrigerant enters from the top side of shell and condenses as it comes in contact with the straight horizontal tubes, containing cold water. The condensed liquid refrigerant drops to the bottom of the shell, which often serves as a receiver.
Fig. 1: Shell and tube condenser