In a shell and tube condenser, what is contained in the tube?

In a shell and tube condenser, the tube side is specifically designed to contain the condensing medium, which is typically a liquid used for heat exchange. The primary function of the condenser is to transfer heat from the refrigerant, which circulates through the shell side, to the condensing medium inside the tubes. This process allows the refrigerant to dissipate heat and transition from a vapor to a liquid state as it cools down.

The condensing medium provides a necessary cooling effect and is crucial for maintaining efficient operation of the refrigeration cycle. Common condensing mediums include water or sometimes refrigerants acting in a secondary cooling capacity.

This setup is essential for optimizing the heat transfer process and ensuring that the refrigerant can efficiently condense and cycle back into the system. In contrast to the choice of refrigerant, which is typically found circulating within the shell, the tubes are intentionally designed for the condensing medium to facilitate this heat exchange.