Simulation of multistream plate–fin heat exchangers of an air separation unit Original Research Article

Hot and cold reversible heat exchangers of an air separation unit are simulated. Five fluid streams exchange heat with six fluid streams in parallel and counter flow. The numerical method employed divides the heat exchanger in a number of sections, for which fluid properties, capacity rates and heat transfer coefficients are considered constant. Single and two-phase streams are taken into account. Results obtained from the model are compared with field data.