A shell and tube heat exchanger is a type of equipment used to transfer heat between two fluids. It consists of a series of tubes, called the tube bundle, enclosed within a larger cylindrical shell. One fluid flows through the tubes, while the other fluid flows around the tubes within the shell, allowing heat to transfer between them. This design is efficient for various applications, including heating, cooling, and condensing processes in industries like chemical, petroleum, and power generation. The configuration allows for easy maintenance and cleaning, making it a popular choice for many thermal management systems.