SHELL AND TUBES HEAT EXCHANGER
The shell and tube heat exchanger, also known as multitubular heat exchanger, is one of the most established and reliable solutions for thermal energy transfer in demanding industrial processes. Its robust architecture, adaptability, and long service life make it a key piece of equipment in installations where operational continuity is critical.
This type of exchanger consists of a cylindrical shell housing a bundle of internal tubes, through which one of the process fluids flows, while the second fluid flows through the interior of the shell without ever mixing. This physical separation ensures safe, controlled, and highly efficient heat transfer, even under severe pressure or temperature conditions.
At BOIXAC, we design tubular heat exchangers based on a detailed technical analysis of each application, optimizing exchange surfaces, pressure losses, and maintenance accessibility to reduce operational costs and maximize the overall energy efficiency of the system.
Operating principle and thermal design
The shell and tube heat exchanger operates through the indirect contact of two fluids at different temperatures, separated by the tube walls. Heat transfer occurs in a stable and predictable manner, making it especially suitable for continuous processes and high thermal loads.
Depending on process requirements, the design may include:
One or multiple tube passes to improve thermal efficiency.
Single or multiple circuits, adapted to variable flow rates.
Configurations for evaporation or condensation, including industrial refrigerants such as NH₃.
Its constructive flexibility allows easy integration into existing systems or new installations, both horizontally and vertically.
Key advantages of the multitubular heat exchanger
Shell and tube exchangers offer a range of advantages that make them highly competitive in industrial environments:
High mechanical strength, suitable for high pressures and temperatures.
High fouling tolerance, ideal for fluids containing impurities or particles.
Easy maintenance, with direct access to the tube bundle for inspection and cleaning.
Robust and durable design, intended for intensive and continuous operation.
Application versatility, suitable for cooling, heating, evaporation, or condensation.
Typical ROI
3-12 months
Ideal for
solids, fibres & residues
Warranty
2 years
Design
custom-made
Materials and long-term reliability
BOIXAC tubular heat exchangers are manufactured with materials selected according to the working environment, ensuring chemical, thermal, and mechanical resistance. Common materials include:
Stainless steel AISI 304
Stainless steel AISI 316 / 316L
Stainless steel 904L
Duplex
Other special alloys on request
This selection ensures long equipment life, even in harsh industrial environments, and consistent operational reliability over time.
Industrial applications
Thanks to their robustness and adaptability, tubular heat exchangers are widely used in sectors such as:
Energy and thermal generation
Oil, gas, and petrochemicals
Food industry
Pharmaceutical and chemical industry
Plastics and transformation processes
Pulp and paper
Naval and offshore sector
Biogas and energy recovery
They are particularly suitable for use with pumps, compressors, turbines, transformers, and thermal regulation systems.
Why choose a shell and tube heat exchanger
When an industrial process requires structural robustness, thermal stability, and the ability to operate under demanding conditions, the tubular heat exchanger stands out as a reliable and proven solution compared to other technologies.
It is an optimal choice for installations where safety, process continuity, and reduced unplanned downtime are key factors for operational profitability.
Pillow plate heat exchanger
Concentric tube-in-tube heat exchanger
Tubular heat exchanger