Shell-and-Tube Vortex Shedding Frequency Calculator

Determine vortex shedding excitation frequency (fv), Strouhal number (St), and resonance lock-in margins with tube natural frequency per TEMA standards.

Tube Bundle Geometry & Shell Flow

Tube Outer Diameter d_o (mm): Standard: 3/4" (19.05 mm)

Tube Pitch P (mm): Pitch ratio P/d_o = 1.33

Tube Layout Pattern:

Crossflow Velocity v_c (m/s):

Tube Natural Frequency f_n (Hz):

Shell Fluid Density ρ_s (kg/m³):

Vortex Shedding & Resonance

Vortex Frequency (f_v):

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Frequency Ratio (f_v / f_n):

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Strouhal Number (S_t):

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Resonance Critical Speed:

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TEMA Resonance Assessment:

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is vortex shedding in a shell-and-tube heat exchanger?

When shell fluid flows across the tube bundle, alternating vortices detach from opposite sides of each tube, creating a periodic oscillating lift force transverse to the flow direction.

What is the TEMA resonance avoidance criterion?

TEMA Section 5 dictates that vortex shedding frequency fv must remain outside the lock-in resonance window: either fv < 0.8·fn or fv > 1.2·fn to prevent large-amplitude fatigue failure at the tube-to-tubesheet joint.

How can engineers eliminate vortex shedding resonance in existing exchangers?

Resonance can be cured by inserting mid-span support rods/stakes to raise tube natural frequency fn, altering baffle spacing, or adding anti-vibration baffles (detuning vanes).