Influence of flow velocity on biofilm growth in a tubular heat exchanger-condenser cooled by seawater

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Abstract
The influence of flow velocity (FV) on the heat transfer process in tubes made from AISI 316L stainless steel in a heat exchanger-condenser cooled by seawater was evaluated based on the characteristics of the resulting biofilm that adhered to the internal surface of the tubes at velocities of 1, 1.2, 1.6, and 3 m s−1. The results demonstrated that at a higher FV, despite being more compact and consistent, the biofilm was thinner with a lower concentration of solids, and smoother, which favoured the heat transfer process within the equipment. However, higher velocities increase the initial cost of the refrigerating water-pumping equipment and its energy consumption cost to compensate for the greater pressure drops produced in the tube. The velocity of 1.6 m s−1 represented the equilibrium between the advantages and disadvantages of the variables analysed for the test conditions in this study.
Funding Information
  • Spanish Ministry of Education and Science (CTM2006-05471)

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