What is the purpose of the packing ring in the floating end of a shell and tube type cooler?

The packing ring in the floating end of a shell and tube type cooler serves a crucial function in maintaining the integrity and efficiency of the cooling system. Its primary purpose is to create a seal that prevents leakage past the floating end tube sheet. This is essential because the floating end allows for thermal expansion and contraction of the tubes without transmitting stresses to the tube sheets.

By ensuring that the packing ring maintains a tight seal, it effectively prevents the process fluids from escaping into the shell side or between the tube bundle and the tube sheets. This containment is critical for both operational safety and efficiency, as any leakage could lead to contamination, inefficient heat transfer, and potential loss of process fluid.

In contrast, improving thermal conductivity, supporting the floating end assembly, and enhancing fluid flow refer to other aspects of the design and function of a shell and tube cooler, but these do not directly relate to the specific role of the packing ring.