Redesign of the E-637 Air Fin Cooler in the Hydrocracking Unit at Shazand Refinery: A Combined Approach Utilizing Numerical Simulation, Analytical Modeling, and Experimental Data

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Arak University, Arak

2 Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shahrekord University, Shahrekord

10.61186/masm.2025.2057957.1158
Abstract
The failure of the E-637 heat exchanger necessitated repairs and prompted a redesign process. Initially, the non-circular, thick-walled vessel was designed using elasticity theory and evaluated against established standards. Data for analysis and redesign were gathered from the E-637 heat exchanger at the Shazand Oil Refinery. Both analytical and numerical modeling were conducted in accordance with standard requirements and incorporated reasonable simplifications. The simulation results were compared with operational data, which confirmed the accuracy of the analysis and design process.After verifying the design's accuracy, the optimization process commenced. The final model was analyzed based on the actual configuration while considering theoretical thicknesses. Studies showed that the ASME approach tends to adopt a conservative design. Therefore, optimization was achieved through numerical simulations and adherence to standard guidelines. This process led to a reduction in the vessel wall thickness. Ultimately, by referencing the analyses in Chapter 5 of the standard, the initial thicknesses were successfully optimized.

Keywords



Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 29 May 2025

  • Receive Date 29 April 2025
  • Revise Date 23 May 2025
  • Accept Date 27 May 2025