The BLOCK type graphite heat exchanger is one of the most maintenance free types ever designed as all graphite is kept in compression. The BLOCK will take overlaods without failure which includes thermal, hydraulic and external mechanical shock. Simplicity of design, ease of disassembly for mechanical cleaning, and a large number of sizes and pass arrangements all contribute to the BLOCK versatility.

BLOCK are manufactured in a size range from10 ft2 to 2,000 ft2 H.T.A., passes available from single to 60 pass dependent on model. Process side flow passages are either 3/8" diameter or 1/4" diameter. The smaller hole option is generally used for condensation applications although they are applicable to clean liquids as well. Process tubes 3/4" and1/2" diameter can be furnished for special requirements. They are, however, not standard. Right angle relationship of process and service side flow patterns provides counter current flow which eliminates temperature correction factors in multipass heat exchangers. H.T.A.'s are thereby greatly reduced. The physical size of the BLOCK design will often be 1/5 the volume of a comparable shell and tube graphite exchanger.

Selection of the correct pass arrangement, in order to provide the minimum heat transfer resistance is of primary importance. The higher the velocity, the less the resistance, especially in the turbulent range, however, care must be observed concerning excessive pressure drop. In most cases, for a liquid specific gravity of 1, a velocity of 3-4 ft/sec can be used for good efficiency. TFE process gaskets are standard on all models. There are no internal gaskets in the BLOCK design.

Selection of the correct pass arrangement, in order to provide the minimum heat transfer resistance is of primary importance. The higher the velocity, the less the resistance, especially in the turbulent range, however, care must be observed concerning excessive pressure drop. In most cases, for a liquid specific gravity of 1, a velocity of 3-4 ft/sec can be used for good efficiency. TFE process gaskets are standard on all models. There are no internal gaskets in the BLOCK design.
BLOCK Models and Data