Influence of flow velocity on biofilm growth in a tubular heat exchanger-condenser cooled by seawater

Abstract

The influence of flow velocity (FV) on the heat transfer process in tubes made from AISI 316L stainless steel in a heat exchanger-condenser cooled by seawater was evaluated based on the characteristics of the resulting biofilm that adhered to the internal surface of the tubes at velocities of 1, 1.2, 1.6, and 3 m s⁻¹. The results demonstrated that at a higher FV, despite being more compact and consistent, the biofilm was thinner with a lower concentration of solids, and smoother, which favoured the heat transfer process within the equipment. However, higher velocities increase the initial cost of the refrigerating water-pumping equipment and its energy consumption cost to compensate for the greater pressure drops produced in the tube. The velocity of 1.6 m s⁻¹ represented the equilibrium between the advantages and disadvantages of the variables analysed for the test conditions in this study.

Keywords:

• biofouling
• flow velocity (FV)
• stainless steel
• turbulent flow
• heat exchanger
• seawater

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.