Vortex-Induced Vibration Assessment as A Tool for Safer And Sustainable Heat Exchanger Design
Keywords:
Sustainable design, Flow induced vibration, Natural frequency, Heat exchangerAbstract
Vortex-induced vibration (VIV) is a dominant flow-induced excitation mechanism responsible for fatigue damage, fretting wear, and premature tube failure in shell-and-tube heat exchangers and industrial piping systems. Such failures can result in unplanned plant shutdowns, economic losses, and serious safety hazards, particularly in energy, chemical, and nuclear industries. From a responsible engineering standpoint, accurate prediction and mitigation of VIV at the design stage is essential to ensure structural integrity and sustainable operation. This study presents a systematic analysis of vortex-induced vibration phenomena based on fluid–structure interaction principles, with emphasis on design parameters governing vibration susceptibility in heat exchanger tubes. Fluid circulating inside the shell and around the tubes are the main principal element responsible for FIV. The influence of tube geometry, unsupported span length, tube pitch, material properties, damping characteristics, and cross- flow velocity on vibration response is examined using established vibration criteria and industry standards. Key excitation mechanisms, including vortex shedding, turbulent buffeting, and fluid-elastic instability, are evaluated to identify critical flow conditions leading to excessive vibration amplitudes. The results demonstrate that inappropriate design choices can significantly reduce tube life, whereas informed parameter selection can effectively suppress vibration-induced damage. Integrating VIV assessment into conventional thermal and mechanical design enables early identification of high-risk configurations, minimizes failure probability, and reduces lifecycle costs. The study underscores the ethical responsibility of engineers to adopt vibration-aware design methodologies that enhance operational safety, extend equipment lifespan, and reduce material waste. Such an approach supports sustainable industrial practices and aligns technological innovation with human safety and long-term infrastructure reliability.
How to cite this article:
Pathak J B, Acharya G D, Pipavat K. Vortex-Induced Vibration Assessment as A Tool for Safer And Sustainable Heat Exchanger Design. J Adv Res Alt Energ Env Eco 2026; 1(1&2): 18-25.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2455.3093.202617
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