Plate Heat Exchanger — DWSIM Unit Operation¶
Plate Heat Exchanger (PHE) is an external unit operation for DWSIM that simulates single-phase heat exchange between two process streams using chevron-corrugated plates with rigorous heat transfer and pressure drop correlations.
Key Features¶
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Rigorous Theory
Martin (1996) generalised Leveque-type Nusselt correlation for chevron plates, Kumar (1984) friction factor correlation with chevron angle correction, and the effectiveness-NTU method for direct outlet temperature prediction.
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User Guide
Step-by-step instructions for configuring geometry, connecting streams, setting fouling resistances, and interpreting results in DWSIM.
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Validated Results
Test cases validated against analytical solutions and literature data for single-phase water-water and water-oil duties across laminar and turbulent regimes.
Capabilities¶
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Streams | 2 streams (one hot, one cold) |
| Calculation Mode | Design — calculates heat duty, outlet temperatures, and pressure drops from plate geometry |
| Flow Arrangement | Counterflow and co-current (parallel flow) |
| Heat Transfer | Martin (1996) generalised Leveque Nusselt correlation for chevron corrugated plates |
| Pressure Drop | Kumar (1984) friction factor correlation with chevron angle correction |
| Overall Coefficient | Rigorous \(U\) from convective coefficients, wall conduction, and fouling resistances |
| Thermal Method | Effectiveness-NTU for counterflow and co-current configurations |
| Property Evaluation | Iterative solver with properties evaluated at average stream temperatures |
| Heat Leak | Optional heat leak/gain to surroundings, split 50/50 between both streams |
| Solver | Iterative convergence on outlet temperatures with PH flash integration |
| Units | Automatic conversion to/from DWSIM unit system |