Integratable and configurable cleaning module for heat exchanger

Abstract

An integratable and configurable cleaning module for a heat exchanger includes an assembly that allows delivery of a desired cleaning solution near one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger to remove debris collected on the one or more heat exchanger assemblies, this assembly can be configured as a function of size, location, and cleaning solution dispensing impact within the heat exchanger. In an illustrative embodiment, the assembly may include any one or a combination of one or more bayonet nozzles, one or more jet orifices, one or more jet ribbons, and / or one or more cleaning tubes. The components can operate independently or are connected to the interior and / or exterior of the heat exchanger through pipelines so as to meet the requirements of operation and / or cleaning parameters of the heat exchanger. Illustratively, the components may be integrated within a shell, mandrel, coaming of the heat exchanger, and / or interwoven with tube bundles.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 440,955, filed on January 25, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Art

[0003] The present application relates to a configurable / integratable cleaning module for a heat exchanger, for performing online or offline cleaning of one or more parts of the heat exchanger.

[0004] Industrial applications requiring cooling and / or heating sources as part of illustrative operating processes and / or solutions may utilize heat exchangers. Illustratively, existing heat exchangers typically include a shell, heat exchange tubes mounted on a central cylinder within the shell, or, in the case of coil-wound heat exchangers, the coil-wound heat exchange tubes extending outward from the interior of the central cylinder, and a tube sheet that supports and operably provides access to the ends of the heat exchange tubes. Depending on the design and operating parameters of the heat exchanger, the configuration and arrangement of the heat exchange tubes may vary, and the heat exchanger may also include a mandrel and shroud that provide structure to the heat exchanger and operably allow for the connection of various components capable of intercommunication with the heat exchange tubes and other operating components, such as the integrable and configurable cleaning modules described herein.

[0005] In the context of coil-wound heat exchangers (CWHEs), existing CWHEs offer the advantages of compact design and high heat exchange efficiency. Operatively, the temperature of the heat exchanger can vary gradually along the axial direction. Furthermore, the medium used in the heat exchanger may have physical properties that exhibit different characteristics in certain temperature ranges and, operatively, may adhere to the outer wall of the tube or the inner wall of the heat exchanger shell under different temperatures and / or operating conditions. As the heat exchanger continues to operate, various substances and / or impurities may be generated in the shell medium (effluent) used, which can operably reduce the heat exchange performance between the various components of the heat exchanger (e.g., between the heat exchange tubes and the shell). This reduction in performance is not limited to a reduction in heat exchange efficiency but can also lead to an increase in the pressure drop within the heat exchanger, which can be critical for optimal operation. The result can be increased energy consumption, a shortened service life of the heat exchanger due to unexpected physical stresses, and a reduction in the production capacity of the entire device that relies on the heat exchanger as part of the production process.

[0006] Cleaning heat exchangers presents various challenges. Depending on the application in which the heat exchanger is used, the types of debris that need to be cleaned and removed can be numerous and challenging to manage. Traditionally, cleaning CWHEs has been difficult due to the complex geometry and limited accessibility of the internal tube bundles. Furthermore, heat exchanger cleaning often requires taking the heat exchanger off-line, significantly impacting the overall production yield of the installation process utilizing the heat exchanger. This cleaning cost can significantly impact a company's revenue opportunities.

[0007] Current solutions contemplate the use of interwoven and / or closely positioned cleaning tubes (perforated) near the heat exchange coils, capable of delivering a cleaning solution to operatively remove debris (e.g., crystallized material) from the surfaces of the heat exchange coils. This conventional approach is limited in effectiveness and results due to the lack of a configuration for controlled, targeted, and distributed cleaning of one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger assembly and / or for cleaning multiple coil bundles within the heat exchanger. Furthermore, existing practices do not contemplate in-line cleaning of the heat exchanger to avoid any operational interruptions in the device's production process.

[0008] Therefore, there is a need for an improved system and method for integrable and configurable cleaning of heat exchangers that is low cost, highly efficient, and simple to design and operate. Summary of the Invention

[0009] The illustrative embodiments described herein provide an integrable and configurable cleaning module for cleaning various components of a heat exchanger, including a coil-wound heat exchanger, such that the illustrative embodiments can operate in both in-line and / or off-line modes. For the illustrative embodiments, the in-line mode of cleaning operation can be implemented such that a cleaning fluid used for the cleaning operation is delivered to the heat exchanger according to the illustrative embodiments described herein (during a usable operating step of the heat exchanger) and is present along with debris that is collected with the process fluid present during conventional operation of the heat exchanger. In the off-line mode, the illustrative embodiments can be operated such that the cleaning fluid is directed to flow only on the shell side of the heat exchanger. The illustrative embodiments can also be operated such that the cleaning fluid is directed to flow toward the tubesheet surface. Furthermore, the illustrative embodiments can further include an exemplary collector and / or separator for handling the cleaning fluid (including the collected debris), the collector and / or separator being present in the shell of the heat exchanger and operable to prevent the collected debris from continuing downstream along the operating fluid circuit of the heat exchanger and / or the fluid circuit of the heat exchanger's installation process.

[0010] In an illustrative embodiment, the cleaning module is deployed using one or more bayonet nozzles that can be positioned axially and / or circumferentially within the heat exchanger, operable to deliver a desired cleaning solution to one or more components of the heat exchanger. In one illustrative configuration, one or more bayonet nozzles are operably mounted on the heat exchanger shell to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, one or more bayonet nozzles are operably located inside the heat exchanger shell to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, one or more bayonet nozzles are operably mounted to a heat exchanger shell having an axial tube sheet. In another illustrative embodiment, the exemplary bayonet nozzle can be attached to the tube sheet, operably allowing the cleaning fluid to be deployed into the tube stem of the exemplary heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, one or more bayonet nozzles are operably located at the container head of the heat exchanger to deliver the desired cleaning solution. In these embodiments, one or more bayonet nozzles can be deployed to act independently such that they are not physically connected to each other and / or can be deployed so as to be connected to each other depending on the parameters of the desired heat exchanger cleaning regimen, which parameters can take into account the geometry of the heat exchanger components, the type of debris to be cleaned, the frequency of cleaning, and the target portion of the heat exchanger that needs to be cleaned.

[0011] In an illustrative embodiment, the cleaning module is deployed using one or more injection ports that can be positioned axially and / or circumferentially within and / or on a heat exchanger, operable to provide the desired cleaning solution to one or more components of the heat exchanger. In an illustrative configuration, one or more injection ports are operably mounted in the spindle of the heat exchanger to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired parts of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, one or more injection ports are operably located in the apron of the heat exchanger to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired parts of the heat exchanger. In these embodiments, one or more injection ports can be deployed to act independently so that they are not physically connected to each other, and / or can be deployed to be connected to each other depending on the parameters of the desired heat exchanger cleaning scheme, which can take into account the geometry of the heat exchanger components, the type of debris to be cleaned, the frequency of cleaning, and the target portion of the heat exchanger that needs to be cleaned. In illustrative operation, the injection ports are deployed to allow regional cleaning of one or more parts of an exemplary heat exchanger.

[0012] In an illustrative embodiment, the cleaning module is deployed using one or more spray strips that can be positioned axially and / or circumferentially within and / or on the heat exchanger, operable to provide the desired cleaning solution to one or more components of the heat exchanger. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more spray strips are independent components spaced apart from the components of the exemplary heat exchanger. In another illustrative embodiment, the one or more spray strips are integrated into one or more parts of the existing heat exchanger components, including but not limited to spacers and bundle supports. In an illustrative configuration, the one or more spray strips are operably mounted on the heat exchanger shell to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired parts of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, the one or more spray strips have perforations to allow another desired distribution pattern when delivering the cleaning solution to one or more desired parts of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, the one or more spray strips are operably located in the mandrel of the heat exchanger to allow the mandrel to be cleaned. In another illustrative configuration, the one or more spray strips are operably located in the heat exchanger and interconnected by pipes that can be located in the mandrel. In these embodiments, one or more jet strips can be deployed to act independently such that they are not physically connected to each other and / or can be deployed so as to be connected to each other depending on the parameters of the desired heat exchanger cleaning regimen, which parameters can take into account the geometry of the heat exchanger components, the type of debris to be cleaned, the frequency of cleaning, and the target portion of the heat exchanger that needs to be cleaned.

[0013] In an illustrative embodiment, the cleaning module is deployed using one or more perforated cleaning tubes that can be positioned axially and / or circumferentially within and / or on a heat exchanger, operable to provide a desired cleaning solution to one or more components of the heat exchanger. In one illustrative configuration, the one or more perforated cleaning tubes are operably mounted on an axial tube sheet of the heat exchanger shell to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, the one or more perforated tubes are operably located within the heat exchanger, having a common termination point within the heat exchanger geometry, to allow the cleaning solution to be delivered to one or more desired portions of the heat exchanger. In another illustrative configuration, the one or more perforated tubes are operably located within the heat exchanger, having a variable termination point, to allow the cleaning solution to be variably delivered to different portions of the heat exchanger's internal geometry. In these embodiments, the one or more perforated tubes can be deployed to act independently, such that they are not physically connected to each other, and / or can be deployed to be connected to each other depending on the parameters of the desired heat exchanger cleaning regimen, which can take into account the geometry of the heat exchanger components, the type of debris to be cleaned, the frequency of cleaning, and the target portion of the heat exchanger to be cleaned. In an illustrative embodiment, the one or more perforated tubes can be positioned to allow the cleaning solution to flow in an upward direction within the exemplary heat exchanger, thereby allowing the cleaning solution to bubble in a fountain-like stream over one or more components of the heat exchanger to be cleaned. In another illustrative embodiment, the one or more perforated cleaning tubes can be positioned in an exemplary heat exchanger having more than one bundle, such that the perforated cleaning tubes terminate at the bottom of the upper bundle, thereby allowing the exemplary cleaning solution to flow to the bottom bundle using gravity. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] Figure 1 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more exemplary bayonet nozzles operably mounted on an illustrative housing of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0015] Figure 1A is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more exemplary jet strips being deployed that are operably positionable as independent components within the heat exchanger and / or as part of one or more components of the heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0016] Figure 1B is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more injection ports operably positioned within an illustrative spindle of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0017] Figure 1C is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which the illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more cleaning tubes illustratively having a common termination point deployed in a desired configuration for a desired cleaning process.

[0018] Figure 2 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles operably positioned within an illustrative housing of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0019] Figure 2A is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more perforated jet strips being deployed operably positioned within the interior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0020] Figure 2B is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more injection ports operably positioned in an illustrative enclosure of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0021] Figure 2C is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which the illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more cleaning tubes illustratively having one or more varying termination points deployed in a desired configuration for a desired cleaning process.

[0022] Figure 3 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more exemplary bayonet nozzles operably mounted to an illustrative shell of the exemplary heat exchanger having an exemplary axial tube sheet for a desired cleaning process.

[0023] Figure 3A is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed with one or more exemplary jet strips operably connected via an illustrative spindle of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0024] Figure 3B It is along Figure 3 A cross-sectional view taken along line 3B-3B of FIG. 1 shows an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed, with one or more injection ports deployed that are operably located in an illustrative mandrel of the exemplary heat exchanger and connected internally for a desired cleaning process.

[0025] Figure 3Cis a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which the illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more cleaning tubes deployed in an ideal configuration and illustratively integrated with the axial tube sheets of the exemplary heat exchanger for our ideal cleaning process.

[0026] Figure 3D is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with cleaning tubes deployed in a desired configuration operatively positioned within the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0027] Figure 4 is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in an ideal configuration, the bayonet nozzles not physically connected and deployed in the exemplary heat exchanger for an ideal cleaning process.

[0028] Figure 4A is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more jet strips deployed that are not physically connected and are deployed in the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0029] Figure 4B is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed, with one or more shroud-mounted injection ports deployed in a desired configuration, the injection ports physically connected internally and deployed in the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0030] Figure 4C is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed, with one or more cleaning tubes deployed in an ideal bundle configuration, the cleaning tubes not physically connected internally and deployed in the exemplary heat exchanger for an ideal cleaning process.

[0031] Figure 5 is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in a desired configuration and physically connected to the exterior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0032] Figure 5A is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more spray strips deployed in a desired configuration and physically connected to the exterior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0033] Figure 6is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in a desired configuration and physically connected to the interior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0034] Figure 6A is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more jet strips deployed in a desired configuration and physically connected internally through an illustrative mandrel of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0035] Figure 7 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more exemplary bayonet nozzles operably mounted to an illustrative vessel head of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0036] Figure 7A is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more jet ribbons deployed in a desired layer / bundle configuration for a desired cleaning process.

[0037] Figure 8 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more exemplary bayonet nozzles operably mounted on an illustrative axial tube sheet of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0038] Figure 8A is a side view of an illustrative perforated jet belt for use in accordance with illustrative embodiments described herein.

[0039] Figure 8B It is along Figure 8A A cross-sectional view of line 8B-8B.

[0040] Figure 9 is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which an illustrative embodiment has been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in another ideal configuration, the bayonet nozzles not physically connected and deployed in the exemplary heat exchanger for an ideal cleaning process.

[0041] Figure 10 is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in a desired configuration physically connected to the exterior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0042] Figure 11is a top cross-sectional view of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles deployed in another desired configuration physically coupled to the interior of the exemplary heat exchanger for a desired cleaning process.

[0043] Figure 12 is a side view of an exemplary bayonet nozzle for use in accordance with illustrative embodiments described herein.

[0044] Figure 13 is a front view of an exemplary bayonet nozzle for use in accordance with illustrative embodiments described herein.

[0045] Figure 14 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which the illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles operably positioned between an upper bundle and a lower bundle.

[0046] Figure 15 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles extending through a tube sheet.

[0047] Figure 16 is a side block diagram of an exemplary heat exchanger in which the illustrative embodiments have been deployed, with one or more bayonet nozzles being deployed operably positioned within a bundle. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0048] The following detailed description provides only illustrative embodiments and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the invention. Rather, the following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing the illustrative embodiments of the invention. It will be understood that various changes may be made to the function and arrangement of components without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

[0049] Reference numerals introduced in the specification in association with a drawing may be repeated in one or more subsequent drawings without additional description in the specification, in order to provide context for other features.

[0050] This application includes multiple illustrative embodiments. Features that are present in more than one illustrative embodiment are represented by reference numerals that differ by a factor of 100. For example, Figure 1 The CWHE 100 in the illustrative embodiment is Figure 2 CWHE 200 and Figure 3Unless a feature is specifically noted as different from another illustrative embodiment shown in a drawing, it can be assumed that the feature has substantially the same structure and function as the corresponding feature in the illustrative embodiment. In addition, if the feature does not have a different structure or function in the illustrative embodiment described later, it may be noted in the drawing but not specifically mentioned in the description.

[0051] To aid in describing the present invention, directional terms may be used in the specification and claims to describe portions of the present invention (e.g., up, down, left, right, etc.). These directional terms are intended solely to assist in describing and claiming the present invention and are not intended to limit the present invention in any way. In addition, reference numerals introduced in the specification in connection with an accompanying drawing may be repeated in one or more subsequent figures without additional explanation in the specification to provide context for other features.

[0052] Unless otherwise indicated, the articles "a" or "an" as used herein, when applied to any feature described in the embodiments of the present invention in the specification and claims, mean one or more. The use of "a" or "an" does not limit its meaning to a single feature unless such limitation is specifically stated. The article "the" before a singular or plural noun or noun phrase denotes a specific named feature or a specific named plurality of features and can have a singular or plural meaning depending on the context in which it is used.

[0053] Unless otherwise specified herein, reference to introducing a flow at a particular location is intended to mean introducing substantially all of the flow at that location. All flows discussed in the specification and shown in the accompanying drawings (generally represented by arrowed lines indicating the general direction of fluid flow during normal operation) should be understood to be included in the corresponding conduits. Each conduit should be understood to have at least one inlet and at least one outlet. Further, each piece of equipment should be understood to have at least one inlet and at least one outlet.

[0054] The term "conduit," as used in the specification and claims, refers to one or more structures through which fluids may be conveyed between two or more components of a system. For example, a conduit may include pipes, tubes, channels, and combinations thereof, that convey liquids, vapors, and / or gases.

[0055] As used in the specification and claims, the term "flow communication" means that two or more elements are connected (directly or indirectly) in a manner that enables fluid to flow between the elements, including connections that may contain valves, gates, tees or other devices that selectively restrict, combine or separate the flow of fluids.

[0056] As used in the specification and claims, the term "mandrel" is intended to refer to the central tube around which the tubes are wound to form a tube bundle.

[0057] As used in the specification and claims, the term "shroud" is intended to refer to a structure located between the outermost layer of the tube bundle and the shell, adapted to direct shell-side fluid falling between the shell and the tube bundle inwardly toward the tube bundle.

[0058] As used in the specification and claims, the term "distributor" is intended to refer to a structure located above the shell and tube bundle that controls the mixing and distribution of the shell-side fluid (typically a two-phase fluid) onto the tube bundle below it. A distributor may also be referred to as a separator and a distributor.

[0059] As used in the specification and claims, the term "support strap" is intended to refer to a structure positioned between the layers of a tube bundle that provides structural support to the tube bundle.

[0060] As used in the specification and claims, the term "spacer" is intended to mean a structure located between layers of a tube bundle, extending generally vertically, to provide the desired spacing between tube layers and optionally maintain the desired spacing between adjacent tube windings.

[0061] As used in the specification and claims, the term "tube sheet" is intended to refer to the structure through which all the tubes of a tube bundle pass and are secured. The tube sheet provides stability to the tubes as they pass through the shell of a CWHE.

[0062] As used in the specification and claims, the term "tube stem" is intended to mean a section of tube extending between the tube sheet and the winding bundle.

[0063] Figure 1 、 Figure 2 、 Figure 3 、 Figure 4 、 Figure 5 、 Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 8 、 Figure 9 、 Figure 10 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 12 and Figure 13 An illustrative embodiment of an integratable and configurable cleaning module for a CWHE is described that utilizes one or more bayonet nozzles. As shown in the figures, the bayonet nozzles can be operatively positioned to accommodate the needs of the CWHE. In the illustrative embodiment, while the figures show a specific number of bayonet nozzles deployed, this number is illustrative only, as the number of bayonet nozzles deployed can vary depending on various factors, including, but not limited to, the size of the heat exchanger, the desired location of the bayonet nozzles relative to the target portion of the heat exchanger being cleaned, and the cleaning requirements. Furthermore, the cleaning module can be advantageously implemented in other types of heat exchangers.

[0064] As used herein, the term "cleaning module" is intended to refer to a device designed to deliver a cleaning fluid to the interior of a heat exchanger. Examples of cleaning modules include bayonet nozzles, ports, belts, tubes, etc., many of which are discussed in the illustrative embodiments described herein.

[0065] In an illustrative embodiment, the length and diameter of the exemplary bayonet nozzle projected into the vessel can be adjusted to accommodate access to different areas on the CWHE, including the location of the tube bundle. Illustratively, if multiple bayonet nozzles are deployed, each bayonet nozzle can be operatively configured with a different geometry (e.g., size, length, diameter, spatial location, orifice size, orifice geometry, orifice pitch, attachment point to optimize fluid distribution). Thus, to accommodate a variety of different heat exchanger configurations, the illustrative bayonet nozzles can vary in number, location, and functionality. The bayonet nozzles can be mounted within the CWHE (see, e.g., FIG. 1 ). Figure 2 ) or externally, such that installation and subsequent nozzle projection can be accomplished illustratively through the shell, vessel head, axial tube sheet, mandrel, and / or shroud. Furthermore, the manner in which fluid is discharged from the bayonet nozzle (or other type of cleaning module) may depend on many factors, such as the direction in which the cleaning fluid is directed, the size of the shell, and the configuration of components within the shell. In some embodiments, it is desirable for the fluid to be discharged in the form of a stream or jet. In other embodiments, it is desirable for the fluid to be discharged in the form of droplets, vapor, mist, or to be atomized.

[0066] In this illustrative explanation, the bayonet nozzle can be deployed as a standalone nozzle, e.g. Figure 4 and Figure 9 shown, and / or externally connected, such as Figure 5 and Figure 10 As shown, the connection may include a fluid control valve 1750 to allow for automated and / or manual isolation of the clean area. Figure 6 and Figure 11 As shown, the illustrative bayonet nozzles can be internally connected so that the connection can include a bypass valve 1950 to allow for automated and / or manual isolation of the cleaning area. In other embodiments, the internal connection of the illustrative bayonet nozzles can include a control valve. In the illustrative embodiment, one or more bayonet nozzles can also be deployed so that they are not limited to cleaning a single coil bundle of the illustrative heat exchanger. In this embodiment, for a heat exchanger having multiple coil bundles, one or more bayonet nozzles can be installed so that each coil bundle is targeted, or for a single bundle heat exchanger, a single coil can be addressed, with the single coil also being configured to address individual bundles of a multi-bundle heat exchanger as needed. Operably, the configurable deployment of the bayonet nozzles enables the bundles to be cleaned individually, together, or sequentially. In addition, although not shown in the figure, the bayonet nozzles can be deployed as additional winding bundles.

[0067] like Figure 1 As shown, the illustrative CWHE 100 includes bayonet nozzles 130a, 130b operably mounted on the heat exchanger shell 120 above and / or below the tube bundle 122. Shell-side process fluid enters the exemplary CWHE 100 via inlet 101 and exits the heat exchanger via outlet 102. Tube-side process fluid enters the tube bundle 122 via inlet 103 and passes through the tube bundle 122 through tube sheet 123 and exits at outlet 104. Depending on the various operating and / or cleaning requirements of the CWHE 100, each bayonet nozzle 130a, 130b can be optimally positioned and connected to ensure that the cleaning fluid flows through the bundle 122 from top to bottom (as indicated by arrow 106) or from bottom to top (as indicated by arrow 108). Furthermore, in the illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 130a, 130b may be positioned on or away from the tube sheet 123, tube stems 124a and 124b, mandrel 125, and / or shroud 121 as desired to dispense cleaning fluid.

[0068] Each bayonet nozzle 130a, 130b is connected to a cleaning fluid source (represented by tank 150) and may have dedicated conduits 152, 154 for supplying cleaning fluid to the bayonet nozzles 130a, 130b, respectively. The dedicated conduits 152, 154 for the cleaning fluid and its distribution (via the bayonet nozzles 130a, 130b) enable the cleaning system to operate independently of the flow of shell-side fluid or tube-side fluid.

[0069] Figure 2 Another configuration of an illustrative implementation of an integrable and configurable cleaning module for a CWHE 500 is shown, utilizing illustrative bayonet nozzles 530a, 530b. The bayonet nozzles 530a, 530b can illustratively be mounted on the shell 520 above and / or below the tube bundle 522 and include one or more internal connections to the internally mounted bayonet nozzles 530a, 530b. In illustrative operation, a shell-side process fluid can enter the exemplary heat exchanger through inlet 501 and exit the heat exchanger via outlet 502. A tube-side fluid can operably enter the tube bundle 522 through inlet 503, circulate through tube trunks 524a, 524b, and then exit the tube bundle 522 through outlet 504. The transition between the tube trunks 524a, 524b and the inlet 503 and outlet 504 is provided by tube sheets 523a and 523b, respectively.

[0070] Depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the exemplary heat exchanger, one or more bayonet nozzles 530a, 530b may be optimally positioned and connected to ensure that the cleaning fluid flows from top to bottom (as indicated by arrow 506) through the bundle 522 or from bottom to top (as indicated by arrow 508) through the bundle 522. The exemplary bayonet nozzles 530a, 530b may be positioned as required for each application to distribute the cleaning fluid over or operatively away from the tube sheet 523, tube trunks 524a and 524b, mandrel 525, and / or shroud 521.

[0071] Figure 3 Another illustrative embodiment is shown in which bayonet nozzles 930a, 930b are operably mounted above and / or below tube bundle 922 and between axial tube sheets 923a, 923b. In illustrative operation, shell-side process fluid can operably enter exemplary CWHE 900 via inlet nozzle 901 and exit the heat exchanger via outlet nozzle 902. Tube-side fluid enters through inlet nozzle 903 and exits through tube bundle 922 via outlet nozzle 904. In the illustrative embodiment, bayonet nozzles 930a, 930b can be optimally positioned and connected to ensure that the cleaning fluid flows through bundle 922 from top to bottom (as shown by arrow 906) or from bottom to top (as shown by arrow 908) depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the various heat exchangers. Furthermore, in the illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 930a, 930b can be positioned as desired to dispense cleaning fluid over or away from the tube sheets 923a and 923b, the tube stem 924, the mandrel 925, and / or the shroud 921.

[0072] Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of illustrative bayonet nozzles 1330a, 1330b, 1330c, and 1330d is provided, which can be illustratively operated such that each bayonet nozzle 1330a, 1330b, 1330c, and 1330d can be operated independently of the others. This allows, depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the heat exchanger, cleaning solution to enter the heat exchanger cavity from the top down over the tube bundle 1336 (via bayonet nozzle 1330d) or from the bottom up through the bundle 1336 (via bayonet nozzle 1330d). As shown in this illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 1330a, 1330b, 1330c, and 1330d can be externally mounted to the heat exchanger housing 1320. Further, as shown, the bayonet nozzles 1330a, 1330b, 1330c, and 1330d may be operably positioned to ensure desired dispensing over the entire bundle 1336 or specific tube layers 1326a, 1326b, 1326c, 1326d.

[0073] Figure 517. The heat exchanger housing 1720 is shown with illustrative bayonet nozzles 1730a-h connected to the exterior of the housing 1720 via exemplary tubes 1733a-h. Depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the heat exchanger, the cleaning solution can be operatively directed from top to bottom over the tube bundle 1726 into the heat exchanger cavity (as indicated by flow arrows 1705), or from bottom to top through the bundle 1726 into the heat exchanger cavity (as indicated by flow arrows 1707). As shown in this illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 1730a-h can be externally mounted to the heat exchanger housing 1720. Further, as shown, the bayonet nozzles 1730a-h can be operatively positioned to ensure desired distribution across the entire bundle or to specific tube layers 1736a-d.

[0074] Figure 6 Bayonet nozzles 1930a, 1930b are shown operably connected internally via exemplary piping. In the illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzle arrangement and piping connections 1933a, 1933b, 1933c, 1933d, and 1933e can be adjusted to optimize the position of the bayonet nozzles 1930a, 1930b to distribute the cleaning solution over the tube bundle 1926, the tube trunks (not shown), and other heat exchanger components that may require cleaning. Depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the heat exchanger, the exemplary cleaning solution can be operably introduced into the heat exchanger cavity from above the bundle 1926 (as indicated by flow arrows 1905) or from below through the bundle 1926 (as indicated by flow arrows 1907). As shown in this illustrative embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 1930a, 1930b can be externally mounted to the heat exchanger housing 1920. Further, as shown, the bayonet nozzles 1930a, 1930b may be operatively positioned to ensure desired dispensing over the entire bundle or a particular tube layer 1936a, 1936b, 1936c, 1936d.

[0075] Figure 7Different configurations of the illustrative embodiment are shown, employing one or more bayonet nozzles. As shown, bayonet nozzles 2130a, 2130b, 2130c, and 2130d can be operably mounted above and / or below tube bundle 2126 on shell 2120. In illustrative operation, a shell-side process fluid can operably enter the exemplary heat exchanger via inlet nozzle 2101 and exit the heat exchanger via outlet nozzle 2102. Tube-side fluid enters from inlet nozzle 2103 through tube sheet 2123a and exits from outlet nozzle 2104 through tube sheet 2123b, passing through tube bundle 2126. In the illustrated embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 2130a, 2130b, 2130c, 2130d can be optimally positioned and connected to ensure that the cleaning fluid flows from top to bottom (as indicated by arrows 2105a and 2105b) or from bottom to top (as indicated by arrows 2107a and 2107b) through the bundle 2126, depending on the operating and / or cleaning requirements of the various heat exchangers. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 2130a, 2130b, 2130c, 2130d can be positioned to distribute the cleaning fluid over or away from the tubesheets 2123a-b, the tube trunks 2124, the mandrels 2125, and / or the shroud 2121, as desired.

[0076] Figure 8 A different configuration of an illustrative embodiment is shown, employing one or more bayonet nozzles. In this embodiment, bayonet nozzles 2230a, 2230b, 2230c, and 2230d can be operably mounted above and / or below tube bundle 2226 and integrally mounted to axial tube sheets 2223a and 2223b. In illustrative operation, a shell-side process fluid can operably enter the exemplary heat exchanger via inlet nozzle 2201 and exit the heat exchanger via outlet nozzle 2202. Tube-side fluid enters through inlet nozzle 2203 and passes through tube sheets 2223a and 2223b, through tube bundle 2226, and exits at outlet nozzle 2204. In the illustrated embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 2230a, 2230b, 2230c, 2230d can be optimally positioned and connected to ensure that the cleaning fluid flows from top to bottom (as indicated by arrows 2206a, 2206b) or from bottom to top (as indicated by arrows 2208a, 2208b) through the bundle 2226, depending on various heat exchanger operations and / or cleaning requirements. Furthermore, in the illustrated embodiment, the bayonet nozzles 2230a, 2230b, 2230c, 2230d can be positioned as desired to distribute the cleaning fluid over or away from the tubesheets 2223a, 2223b, the tube trunks 2224, the mandrels 2225, and / or the shroud 2221.

[0077] Figure 924 is a cross-sectional view in which each of the bayonet nozzles 2430a-h is operable to allow cleaning solution to enter the CWHE 2400 above the tube bundle 2426 for top-down cleaning (as indicated by arrow 2405), or to enter the CWHE 2400 through the bundle 2426 for bottom-up cleaning (as indicated by arrow 2407), depending on the operation and / or cleaning requirements of the heat exchanger. The bayonet nozzles 2430a-h can each be mounted externally to the heat exchanger shell 2420, internally to the heat exchanger, integrated into, or mounted to, the heat exchanger tubesheet (see, e.g., FIG. 24). Figure 15 , as described below). In illustrative operation, bayonet nozzles 2430a-h may be custom manufactured and illustratively positioned to allow for distribution of cleaning solution over the entire tube bundle and / or specific tube layers 2436.

[0078] Figure 10 is another exemplary embodiment, with Figure 9 The embodiment of is similar, but wherein the cleaning fluid feeds entering the bayonet nozzles 2530a-h are grouped. For example, connecting pipes 2533a-b are connected to both bayonet nozzles 2533a and 2533b, while the bayonet nozzles are connected to a single cleaning fluid feed 2505.

[0079] Figure 11 is another exemplary embodiment, with Figure 10 The embodiment of is similar, but wherein the connecting pipes 2633a - b are located inside the heat exchanger shell 2620.

[0080] Figure 12 and Figure 13 A side view and a front view of an illustrative bayonet nozzle 2730 are shown, respectively. Figure 12 As shown, an exemplary bayonet nozzle 2730 may include a mounting side 2737 and a fluid distribution side 2735. The fluid distribution side 2735 may include a number of perforations 2738a, 2738b, 2738c and a terminal end 2739. The mounting side 2737 may include a CWHE attachment assembly 2742 with a three-dimensional movement device 2740. The movement device 2740 allows the rigid nozzle structure on the fluid distribution side 2735 to be rotated so that the cleaning fluid flows through a three-dimensional range within the CWHE. The fluid distribution and rotation performed by the movement device 2740 can be controlled via a mechanical or electronic interface, or via the pressure and velocity of the sprayed cleaning fluid. The mounting assembly of the fluid distribution side 2735 and the attachment assembly 2742, used in conjunction with the movement device 2740, also enables the bayonet nozzle 2730 to be interchanged, so that the cleaning fluid and fluid distribution within the CWHE can be optimized. As shown Figure 13 As shown, the terminal end 1230 of the bayonet nozzle 2730 may include and comprise various perforations 2741a , 2741b , 2741c in the configuration plate 2739 .

[0081] Figure 14 Another illustrative arrangement of a CWHE 2800 is shown, having a single shell 2820, an upper tube bundle 2826a, a lower tube bundle 2826b, and a cleaning module 2870 located between the upper tube bundle 2826a and the lower tube bundle 2826b. This arrangement may be advantageous for applications where cleaning of only the lower tube bundle 2826b is desired.

[0082] Figure 15 Another illustrative arrangement of the CWHE 2900 is shown, in which bayonet nozzles 2930a, 2930b are mounted to and extend through the tubesheet 2923. This arrangement may be advantageous for some applications where the bayonet nozzles 2930a, 2930b penetrate the shell 2920 through the existing tubesheet 2923. This arrangement results in reduced perforation of the shell 2920 and can simplify the modifications required for retrofit applications. This arrangement also allows for the introduction of cleaning fluid (as indicated by arrows 2906) on the backside of the tube stems 2924 and / or tubesheet 2923. This arrangement can also be implemented in applications where the tubesheet 2923 is completely within the shell 2920, rather than attached to it. In other arrangements, the bayonet nozzles 2930a, 2930b can be mounted on the shell, rather than on the tubesheet.

[0083] Figure 16 Another illustrative arrangement of a CWHE 3000 is shown, in which bayonet nozzles 3030a, 3030b are mounted to a mandrel 3025, extending outwardly and positioned within a tube bundle 3026. This means that a portion of the tubes forming the tube bundle 3026 are positioned above the bayonet nozzles 3030a, 3030b. This arrangement may be advantageous for applications where it is necessary to clean the portion of the tube bundle 3026 below the bayonet nozzles 3030a, 3030b, or if additional cleaning flow is required for that portion of the tube bundle 3026. Alternatively, this arrangement may be achieved by attaching the bayonet nozzles 3030a, 3030b to the shell 3020 or shroud 3021, rather than to the mandrel 3025.

[0084] Figure 1B 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3C 、 Figure 3D and Figure 4BIllustrative embodiments of an integrable and configurable cleaning module for a heat exchanger are described, utilizing one or more jet ports. As shown in the figures, the jet ports can be operably positioned, connected, and / or configured to accommodate the needs of a heat exchanger, including a coil-wound heat exchanger. In the illustrative embodiment, while the figures show a specific number of jet ports deployed, such number is illustrative only, as the number of jet ports deployed can vary depending on various factors, including, but not limited to, the size of the heat exchanger, the desired location of the jet ports relative to the target portion of the heat exchanger being cleaned, and the cleaning requirements.

[0085] also, Figure 1B 、 Figure 2B 、 Figure 3C 、 Figure 3D and Figure 4B The illustrative spray ports in the drawings can be operably used with other cleaning spray devices, such as the bayonet nozzles described in the illustrative embodiments of the present invention. Some illustrative features of the illustrative spray ports can include, but are not limited to: the ports can be open (such as nozzles), perforated, or can communicate with alternative cleaning spray devices (e.g., bayonet nozzles), the ports can be completely radial, or angled to allow cleaning fluid to be sprayed upward and / or downward, the ports can be positioned at equal or uneven circumferential spacing around the mandrel and / or shroud, the ports can be positioned at equal or uneven radial spacing along the mandrel and / or shroud, the ports can be any geometric hollow shape (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, etc.), the port openings can be any geometric size and shape (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, chamfered, etc.), and the port openings can be positioned at any size and pitch (e.g., 30 degree triangles, 30 degree squares, random, etc.).

[0086] Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 3A 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 5A 、 Figure 6A 、 Figure 7A 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B Illustrative embodiments of an integrable and configurable cleaning module for a heat exchanger utilizing one or more spray belts are described. For example, Figure 1AA pair of jet ports 240, 242 are included with corresponding jet strips 244, 246. As shown in these figures, the jet ports can be operably positioned, connected, and / or configured to suit the needs of a heat exchanger, including a coil-wound heat exchanger. In the illustrative embodiment, while the figures show a specific number of jet strips deployed, such number is illustrative only, as the number of deployed strip ports can vary depending on various factors, including, but not limited to, the size of the heat exchanger, the desired location of the jet ports relative to the target portion of the heat exchanger to be cleaned, and the cleaning requirements.

[0087] Some illustrative features of the illustrative jet belt include, but are not limited to: the belt can be operated as a standalone, separate component or can be integrated with existing heat exchanger components (e.g., spacers and / or support structures), and the ends of the belt can be open, closed, or porous (e.g., Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A 、 Figure 8A and Figure 8B shown). Figure 8A and Figure 8B A jet belt 2280 is shown having a plurality of holes 2282. Further, the surface of the belt can be solid, include porous areas, or be porous throughout its length (e.g., Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A and Figure 8 The fluid spray ends and / or perforations of the ribbons can be the same and / or different from layer to layer and / or ribbon to ribbon to spray different cleaning fluids along the length of the bundle. The ribbons can be independent or connected together. The connection between the ribbons can be internal and / or external. The ribbon connection can be used to clean the entire bundle or a regional segment or a specific bundle attribute (e.g., a pipe trunk) (e.g., Figure 1A 、 Figure 3A 、 Figure 4A 、 Figure 5A 、 Figure 6A and Figure 7A As described above, zone interconnectivity can be controlled via bypass valves so that zone segments can be merged or split, where valve control can be automated or manual (e.g. Figure 4A 、 Figure 5A 、 Figure 6 ,A and Figure 7A The openings of the belt (including the porous area) can be completely axial, radial or angled to allow the cleaning fluid to be sprayed upward and / or downward (such as Figure 1A 、 Figure 2A and Figure 3AThe belts may be positioned on each layer, or skip layers in any manner, the belts may be positioned at equal or uneven circumferential spacing, the belts may include various geometric hollow shapes (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, polygonal, etc.), the porous openings may be of any geometric size and shape (e.g., circular, triangular, rectangular, chamfered, etc.), and the porous openings may be positioned at any size pitch (e.g., 30-degree triangle, 30-degree square, random, etc.). In addition, the cleaning module may be configured to have one or more flexible and / or rigid components.

[0088] Figure 1C 、 Figure 2C 、 Figure 3B and Figure 4C Illustrative embodiments of an integrable and configurable cleaning module for a heat exchanger are described, each utilizing Figure 1C One or more cleaning tubes 434, Figure 2C 834, Figure 3B 934 and Figure 4C 1634. As shown in these figures, the cleaning tubes can be operably positioned, connected, and / or configured to accommodate the needs of a heat exchanger, including a coil-wound heat exchanger. In the illustrative embodiment, while the figures show a specific number of jet ports deployed, such number is illustrative only, as the number of cleaning tubes deployed can vary depending on various factors, including, but not limited to, the size of the heat exchanger, the desired location of the jet ports relative to the target portion of the heat exchanger being cleaned, and the cleaning requirements.

[0089] Some illustrative features of the illustrative cleaning tubes include, but are not limited to: the cleaning tubes may be illustratively wound into a coil bundle to allow for precise positioning of the cleaning tubes according to various parameters (i.e., circumferential, radial, and axial), the tubes may terminate at all the same locations or at different locations throughout the bundle, the tubes may have a different geometry (e.g., OD and thickness) than the other tubes in the bundle, the tubes may terminate so that the cleaning fluid flows upward or downward through the bundle, the tubes may be porous over their entire length, a portion of their length (including the ends), or have no holes, and the porous openings may be of any geometric size and shape (e.g., circular, triangular, or angular, rectangular, chamfered, etc.), the porous openings can be positioned at any size pitch (e.g., 30 degree triangle, 30 degree square, random, etc.), tubes can start from a single tube sheet or multiple tube sheets, tube sheets and associated tubes can be cleaned independently, or can be connected for partial, regional, or whole bundle cleaning, tube sheets can be segmented to allow subdivision of tubes connected to a single tube sheet, tubes can be positioned on each layer, or skip layers in any manner, when a single tube sheet is used for the entire heat exchanger, tubes can be positioned at equal or uneven circumferential spacing, and tubes for cleaning can be integrated with process piping.

[0090] The scope of the present invention is not limited by the specific aspects or illustrative embodiments disclosed in the examples, which are intended as illustrations of several aspects of the invention, and any functionally equivalent embodiments are within the scope of the invention. Various modifications of the invention in addition to those shown and described herein will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are within the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A heat exchanger comprising: at least one bundle, each of the at least one bundle comprising at least one tube bundle helically wound in a plurality of concentric layers about a mandrel, a tube inlet, a tube outlet, and a plurality of spacers positioned and shaped to provide spacing between each of the plurality of concentric layers, the tube inlet being in fluid flow communication with a tube-side fluid; a shell having a shell inlet and a shell outlet, the shell surrounding the at least one bundle thereby defining a shell space within the shell and external to each of the at least one tube bundle, the shell space being in fluid flow communication with a shell-side fluid; at least one cleaning module in fluid flow communication with a source of cleaning fluid and the shell space; and The at least one cleaning module is adapted to allow the cleaning fluid to be introduced into the housing space and contact at least a portion of the at least one bundle. 2 . The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein each of the at least one cleaning module penetrates the shell at a location other than the shell inlet.

3. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cleaning module is deployed in conjunction with one or more components of the heat exchanger, the one or more components comprising a bayonet nozzle, a spacer, a tube, and a bundle bracket.

4. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cleaning module is attached to one or more components of the heat exchanger, the one or more components comprising: The shell, the mandrel, the shroud and the distributor.

5. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module penetrates the mandrel. 6 . The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises one or more perforated tubes disposed to have a common termination point with respect to the positioning of the at least one tube bundle.

7. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises one or more perforated tubes deployed with various termination points with respect to the positioning of the at least one tube bundle.

8. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module is adapted to atomize the cleaning fluid when the cleaning fluid is introduced into the shell space.

9. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module is adapted to transport fluid in one or more regions of the heat exchanger.

10. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cleaning module further comprises one or more valves engaged with piping to operably control delivery of a cleaning solution to one or more regions of the heat exchanger, the one or more valves comprising control and bypass valves, the piping comprising internal and external piping.

11. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises a first cleaning module and a second cleaning module, the first cleaning module penetrating the shell at a location other than the shell inlet, the second cleaning module being completely located within the shell space and in fluid flow communication with the first cleaning module.

12. The heat exchanger of claim 1 , further comprising a shroud positioned between the shell and the at least one bundle, providing structure to the heat exchanger, wherein the at least one cleaning module is attached to the shroud and adapted to direct a cleaning fluid from the shroud into the at least one bundle.

13. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises a plurality of cleaning modules.

14. The heat exchanger of claim 13, wherein the plurality of cleaning modules are uniformly distributed around the shell space according to a spatial geometry comprising a uniform radial distribution and a uniform circumferential distribution.

15. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module is integral with another component of the heat exchanger, the component comprising a spacer, a bundle bracket, and a conduit.

16. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises one or more spray ports.

17. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection ports are perforated.

18. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection port is communicable with one or more components of the heat exchanger, the one or more components comprising one or more bayonet nozzles.

19. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection ports are deployable in one or more spatial positions in the heat exchanger, the one or more spatial positions comprising equiradial, unequal radial, angular, equicircumferential, non-uniform, and circumferential.

20. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection port comprises a geometric hollow shape, the geometric hollow shape comprising a circle, a triangle, a rectangle, and a polygon.

21. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection port comprises one or more port openings, the one or more port openings comprising a geometric shape, the geometric shape comprising a circle, a triangle, a rectangle, and a chamfered shape.

22. The heat exchanger of claim 16, wherein the injection port comprises one or more port openings operably positioned at a selected pitch.

23. A heat exchanger according to any one of claims 16 to 22, wherein the injection port comprises one or more port openings having a selected size or sizes.

24. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one bundle comprises a first bundle and a second bundle, and the at least one cleaning module is located between the first bundle and the second bundle.

25. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module is adapted to generate fluid droplets to form a mist stream.

26. The heat exchanger of claim 1, further comprising a tube sheet adapted to transition the tube inlet to the at least one tube bundle, wherein the at least one cleaning module extends through the tube sheet.

27. The heat exchanger of claim 1, wherein the at least one cleaning module is located within the at least one tube bundle.

28. A heat exchanger comprising: at least one bundle comprising at least one tube bundle helically wound in a plurality of concentric layers about a mandrel, a tube inlet, a tube outlet, and a plurality of spacers positioned and shaped to provide spacing between each of the plurality of concentric layers, the tube inlet being in fluid flow communication with a tube-side fluid; at least one cleaning module in fluid flow communication with a source of cleaning fluid and the shell space; and The at least one cleaning module is adapted to allow the cleaning fluid to be introduced into the housing space and contact at least a portion of the at least one bundle.

29. The heat exchanger of claim 28, wherein the at least one cleaning module comprises one or more bayonet nozzles positionable within the heat exchanger for cleaning the at least one bundle according to a selected cleaning process, the cleaning process comprising cleaning one or more portions of each of the at least one bundle separately, and cleaning one or more portions of all of the at least one bundle.

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