Tube Sheets / Plate Frames: Thickness 20-100 mm

Component Specifications

Definition

Tube sheets are thick plates with precisely drilled holes that hold heat exchanger tubes in place, creating a barrier between shell-side and tube-side fluids. Plate frames provide structural support and sealing surfaces for plate heat exchangers, maintaining pressure integrity and proper flow distribution across heat transfer plates.

Working Principle

Tube sheets function by mechanically securing tubes through expansion, welding, or rolling while maintaining a pressure-tight seal between fluid circuits. Plate frames apply compressive force to create gasket seals between plates, ensuring leak-free operation and proper plate alignment for optimal thermal performance.

Materials

Carbon steel (ASTM A516), stainless steel (304/316L), titanium (Grade 2), copper alloys (C70600), nickel alloys (Inconel 600), duplex stainless steels (2205)

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Flatness	0.1 mm/m
Thickness	20-100 mm
Hole Tolerance	±0.05 mm
Surface Finish	Ra 3.2 μm
Pressure Rating	Up to 300 bar

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

ISO 16812, ASME BPVC Section VIII, TEMA Standards, EN 13445

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Heat Exchanger Core

The central heat transfer component within a feed preheater that facilitates thermal energy exchange between fluid streams.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Corrosion under insulation
Stress corrosion cracking
Tube joint leakage
Thermal fatigue
Erosion from high-velocity fluids

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Inadequate material selection for corrosive service
Failure: Premature corrosion leading to leakage
Mitigation: Implement proper material compatibility analysis and corrosion monitoring

Trigger: Improper tube expansion technique
Failure: Tube-to-tube sheet joint failure
Mitigation: Follow standardized tube rolling procedures and conduct regular joint integrity testing

Trigger: Thermal cycling stress
Failure: Cracking around tube holes
Mitigation: Design with thermal stress relief features and controlled startup/shutdown procedures

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

Hole diameter ±0.05 mm, Position ±0.1 mm, Flatness 0.1 mm/m

Test Method

Dye penetrant testing, Ultrasonic thickness measurement, Hydrostatic pressure testing, Dimensional verification with CMM

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

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CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Tube Sheets / Plate Frames

Manufacturer profiles associated with Tube Sheets / Plate Frames.

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Related Components

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The main frame is the primary structural component of a hydraulic press, providing rigidity and stability to withstand high compressive forces during metal forming operations.

Shaft Bearing

Precision component supporting rotating shafts in vibration motors to reduce friction and maintain alignment.

Seal Groove

Precision-machined groove in aluminum bearing housings designed to accommodate sealing elements for fluid containment and contamination prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between tube sheets and plate frames?

Tube sheets are used in shell-and-tube heat exchangers to secure tubes, while plate frames provide structural support and sealing in plate heat exchangers.

How are tube sheets manufactured?

Tube sheets are typically machined from forged plates with precision drilling, facing, and groove cutting operations to ensure dimensional accuracy.

What causes tube sheet failure?

Common failure modes include corrosion, erosion, thermal stress cracking, and improper tube-to-sheet joint integrity.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Tube Sheets / Plate Frames