Shell-and-tube exchanger hydraulics: the pressure drop on the shell side depends on geometry and fluid properties.\r Which option correctly reflects this dependency?

Introduction:
Predicting shell-side pressure drop is essential to ensure adequate pumping power and to avoid tube vibration or bypassing. The drop arises from crossflow over tube banks, window flow through baffles, leakage streams, and bypass channels—all influenced by hardware dimensions and fluid properties.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Typical 1–2 or 2–4 shell-and-tube configurations with segmental baffles.
• Crossflow patterns governed by baffle spacing, cut, and sealing.
• Fluid properties evaluated at bulk or film temperatures.

Concept / Approach:
Empirical methods (e.g., Bell–Delaware) show shell-side pressure drop depends on baffle spacing and shell diameter (flow area and path), tube layout (diameter, pitch, pattern), and fluid properties (viscosity, density) together with mass velocity. Therefore, every factor listed in (a), (b), and (c) affects the pressure drop; it is not independent of them. Hence, “none of these” is the correct selection to the phrased question “does not depend upon.”

Step-by-Step Solution:
List geometric factors: shell size, baffle spacing, tube pitch/diameter.List property/operating factors: ρ, μ, mass velocity G.Conclude dependence on all; therefore none can be excluded.

Verification / Alternative check:
Correlations compute pressure drop using correction factors for leakage, bundle bypassing, and unequal baffle spacing—all tied to geometry and properties.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• (a), (b), (c): Each undeniably influences shell-side pressure drop.
• (e): Baffle cut matters, but it is not the only parameter.

Common Pitfalls:
Overlooking sealing strips or excessive baffle spacing—both can reduce heat transfer and alter pressure drop undesirably.

Final Answer:
none of these.