Planning the optimum cleaning schedule based on simulation of heat exchangers under fouling

An investigation of variations in outlet temperatures of heat exchangers under fouling was carried out. The simulation of heat exchangers was performed by employing a linear fouling deposit function. The formation of deposits reduces heat exchangers effectiveness. There is inherently a linear nature between outlet and inlet temperatures of heat exchangers. The outlet temperatures can also be affected by up-stream exchangers serving the same streams, and the up-stream influence can be transferred in the heat system. The mathematical model of the cleaning cycle was outlined, based on the objective function of minimizing cost in unit operation time. According to the results, some heat exchangers can be given cleaning priority when the system is shut down, in order to maximize economic benefit. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heat Trans Asian Res; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/htj). DOI 10.1002/htj.20384