Theory

This section provides the complete theoretical foundation for the Multi-Stream Heat Exchanger unit operation, covering fundamental principles, classical design methods, and the segmented interval approach used in the implementation.

Chapter	Description
Fundamentals	Heat exchanger types, terminology, and key performance metrics
LMTD Method	Log-Mean Temperature Difference method for sizing and rating
Effectiveness-NTU	The e-NTU method for direct outlet temperature prediction
Segmented Interval Method	Rigorous enthalpy-based segmentation for multi-stream and phase-change problems
Composite Curves	Construction and interpretation of hot/cold composite curves
Numerical Methods	Bisection solver, PH flash integration, and convergence strategies