Desktop Learning Module Heat Exchanger Performance

Researchers at Washington State University have developed miniaturized hands-on learning stations or Desktop Learning Modules (DLM) to help demonstrate most basic fluid and heat transfer concepts in the classroom.Low-cost, 1 ft 3 modules have been developed with interchangeable cartridges for dye injection into a flow stream; flow measurement with venturi, orifice and pitot tube meters; shell-and-tube, extended area and double pipe heat exchange; and packed bed and fluidized bed performance.The DLMs are effective learning tools, but are they useful in collecting laboratory data?An experimental study was performed to determine the duty of the DLM shell-and-tube heat exchanger, and then to compare the results to theoretical predictions.Although a few minor modifications of the apparatus were necessary in order to obtain accurate data, experimental heat transfer rates on the tube side (539-831 W) were within 15-20% of theoretical predictions.Similarly, experimental heat transfer rates on the shell side (681-1,068 W) were within 1-11% of theoretical.