What type of heat exchanger is a surface condenser?

Study for the Massachusetts 3rd Class Engineer Exam. Access flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Prepare for success on your exam!

A surface condenser is designed to condense exhaust steam from steam turbines back into water for reuse in the steam cycle. It does this by transferring heat from the steam to a cooling medium, typically water, without mixing the two fluids. The primary function of a surface condenser is to maintain a vacuum in the turbine to enhance efficiency.

The shell and tube design of a surface condenser consists of a series of tubes enclosed within a larger shell. Steam flows through the tubes, while a cooling medium flows around the outside of the tubes. This arrangement effectively transfers heat from the steam to the cooling water, causing the steam to condense inside the tubes while remaining separate from the coolant. The shell and tube construction allows for high heat transfer efficiency and an effective means of maintaining a large surface area for heat exchange.

While other heat exchanger types like plate and frame, screw, and spiral have their specific applications and advantages, they do not typically serve the same purpose as a surface condenser in a steam cycle. Plate and frame exchangers are suitable for applications requiring easy cleaning and maintenance but may not handle the large volumes of steam effectively. Screw exchangers are generally used in compact spaces and for specific requirements but lack the capacity for condensate management seen in shell and tube systems. Spiral

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