Ultra Low-Cost Vacuum Formed Shell and Tube Heat Exchanger Learning Module.

Hands-on experimentation with engineering equipment is one form of active learning which is often not experienced until a senior lab course. A major hindrance to this kind of experiential learning is the cost of equipment. Our group has developed a manufacturing method to bridge the price barrier by employing 3D printing and vacuum forming. In this paper, methods are described for the development and testing of a new low-cost (overall $ 115), miniaturized, lightweight, see-through, easy and safe to use shell and tube heat exchanger (STHX) learning module, and corresponding results for engineering classroom implementations are highlighted. The implementation was done in one section of a two-section sophomore level material and energy balance course with 31 students and pre- and post assessment were compared to the other section with 43 students which had a standard lecture. Statistical analysis results show significant improvements for the intervention group, and no significant improvements on any questions for the control group. We think that the STHX can help students understand the practical definition of the system and system boundary and conservation of energy as long as they experience a physical system that represents the energy conservation concepts in action. Student results and feedback presented in this paper provide evidence that students can take reasonable data with this low-cost apparatus in a 50-minute class period and they will have a positive attitude toward the STHX module that will provide further motivation to learn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]