STV-1 Tube Vibrations in Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers

J. M. Chenoweth and R. S. Kistler

1974; revised 1978

The number of flow-induced vibration problems in shell-and-tube heat exchangers has grown dramatically in recent years. These include tubes and tube joints that leak, increased shellside pressure drop, and intolerably loud noise. The result is that exchangers must be taken out of service for repair and modification. This report presents an overview of the problems, the methods for predicting their occurrence, comparisons of predictions with field experience, and some procedures for preventing them.