Baffle plates, also known as baffles, are components used in heat exchangers to enhance heat transfer efficiency. They serve several purposes, including:
Turbulence promotion: Baffle plates are designed to redirect the flow of fluids within the heat exchanger. By creating obstacles in the path of the fluid, they promote turbulence. Turbulent flow enhances heat transfer by breaking up the boundary layer near the heat transfer surfaces, allowing for better mixing and improved heat exchange between the fluids.
Increased surface area: Baffle plates often incorporate fins, ridges, or other protrusions that increase the effective surface area available for heat transfer. The enlarged surface area allows for greater contact between the fluids, facilitating efficient heat exchange.
Fluid direction control: Baffle plates help direct the flow of fluids through the heat exchanger. They divide the exchanger into separate sections or channels, ensuring that the fluids follow a specific path. This control helps optimize the flow pattern and ensures that the fluids make efficient contact with the heat transfer surfaces.
Prevention of tube vibration and damage: In some heat exchangers, baffle plates are used to support and stabilize the tubes carrying the fluids. They minimize tube vibration and prevent damage caused by fluid-induced forces or flow-induced vibrations.
Overall, baffle plates play a crucial role in heat exchangers by improving heat transfer efficiency, enhancing fluid mixing, increasing surface area, and guiding the flow of fluids. These benefits contribute to better heat exchange performance and overall system effectiveness.