On Thermal Expansion Induced Stresses in U-Bends of Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

Abstract

An analytical method is herein developed to evaluate the stress field in the critical regions of a U-tube subject to differential thermal expansion. The solution is intended to be used as a design tool to conveniently study the variation of geometric parameters on the U-tube stress distribution. Those design variables which have significant effects on the structural characteristics of the U-tube are identified by an in-depth study of a typical example problem. Some effective design remedies are also discussed.