Analytical Modeling of the Strength of Tubesheets for Steam Surface Condensers

Abstract

A tubesheet is one of the most important components in the design of a steam surface condenser. In this work, an analytical method to determine the strength of a tubesheet is established based on a beam-strip model. The validation of this beam-strip model is confirmed through a finite-element method (FEM) with the same boundary conditions and mechanical properties of the tubesheet. Effects of various parameters that affect the strength of the tubesheet are analyzed, including the tubesheet thickness, applied loading, fixity type, and length of the unperforated zone. The modeling results show that the most significant factor influencing the maximum stress that the tubesheet can bear is the tubesheet thickness, while other parameters have a weaker impact. From an engineering point of view, the beam-strip model is a useful method for the design of tubesheet.