1. U-tube Heat Exchanger

Pros:

• Natural compensation for thermal expansion;

• Fewer tube-to-tube sheet welds (only one end), reducing leak risk;

• Compact for high-pressure applications.

Cons:

• Cannot use tube-cleaning rods inside the curved section;

• Not ideal for long tubes or heavily fouling fluids;

• Some dead zones near bends may cause fouling.

2. Fixed Tube Sheet Heat Exchanger

Pros:

• Simplest structure and lowest cost;

• Suitable for clean fluids and low-temperature differential processes;

• Easy installation with fixed tube-side and shell-side piping.

Cons:

• No thermal expansion compensation — high stress under thermal cycling;

• Difficult to clean the shell side or replace tube bundles;

• Not ideal for dirty or fouling media.

3. Floating Head Heat Exchanger

Pros:

• Both tube and shell sides can be fully cleaned;

• Floating head allows expansion and contraction, avoiding thermal stress;

• Tube bundle can be removed for inspection or repair.

Cons:

• Complex structure, higher fabrication cost;

• Requires precise sealing at the floating head;

• Larger footprint compared to U-tube and fixed designs.

Selection Guide Summary