In a gravity feed design, what would be the correct name for the vessel that feeds the heat exchangers by gravity?

In a gravity feed design, the vessel that feeds the heat exchangers by gravity is referred to as a surge drum. This type of vessel is specifically designed to provide a consistent supply of liquid to downstream processes, such as heat exchangers, by allowing the liquid to flow through gravitational force.

The surge drum facilitates the separation of vapor and liquid phases, ensuring that a continuous and controlled flow of liquid is maintained. This is essential for effective heat transfer in heat exchangers because fluctuations in the feed can lead to inefficiencies, increased wear on equipment, and operational issues.

In contexts where maintaining steady liquid levels and minimizing pressure changes are critical, the use of a surge drum becomes pivotal. It acts as a buffer to accommodate variations in feed rates and maintain system stability, ensuring that the heat exchangers receive a uniform supply of liquid.