CELL MODELS FOR THE SHELL-SIDE FLOW IN MULTITUBULAR REACTORS

Modeling of shell-side flow distribution in multitubular systems with segmental baffles is reviewed here by means of a two-dimensional cell model. Flow is assumed to be perpendicular to the bundle and parallel to the tubes and leaks through the tube to baffle annular holes are also considered. A short but critical review of the most appropriate pressure drop correlations for computer implementation is presented. The model enables the evaluation of the effect of shell-side hydrodynamics upon the operation of a cocurrent multitubular fixed bed catalytic reactor processing an highly exothermic reaction. It shows that large tube pitches, small baffle windows, and an increase in coolant flow rate can improve coolant distribution and reduce risk of runaway. Nevertheless, some of these optimized parameters have a negative impact on total production and power consumption.