Floating head heat exchangers are a type of shell and tube heat exchanger designed to accommodate thermal expansion and contraction of the tube bundle. This design is particularly useful for high-pressure applications where significant temperature differences can occur between the shell-side and tube-side fluids.

In a fixed tube sheet heat exchanger, one fluid flows through the tubes, while the other fluid flows through the shell. Heat is transferred between the two fluids through the tube walls. The tube sheets are securely fastened to the shell, providing a rigid and durable structure.

In a U-tube heat exchanger, the tubes are bent into a U-shape, with both ends of each tube connected to the same tube sheet. This design allows for thermal expansion and contraction, reducing the risk of tube failures. One fluid flows through the tubes, while the other fluid flows through the shell. Heat is transferred between the two fluids through the tube walls.

Shell and tube heat exchangers are one of the most common types of heat exchangers used in various industries, including oil and gas, chemical processing, power generation, and HVAC systems. They are versatile and reliable, capable of handling a wide range of fluids and temperature differences.