Heat-Exchanger Tube-Sheet Design

A semitheoretical method for the design of circular tube sheets is outlined based upon “deflection and ligament efficiencies.” These are roughly known from past experience with other design formulas, but experimental work is advocated for more accurate evaluation. A bayonet or U-tube sheet is considered as a modified solid plate and other types as modified solid plates on elastic foundations (the tubes themselves). Design equations are presented for both types with either simply supported or rigidly clamped boundaries.