Abstract: The falling film condensing heat exchanger includes a plurality of vertical tubes carrying a coolant. A distribution plate is disposed at the upper end of the condenser shell and has a plurality of apertures receiving the tubes. The apertures in the distribution plate define an annular space around the tubes which permits liquid to flow through the distribution plate apertures in the form of a thin film about the tubes below the distribution plate to enhance heat transfer between the vapor on the shell side and the coolant on the tube side. The distribution plate has depressions about each of the apertures to puddle the liquid, ensuring flow of liquid through the apertures in the form of a thin film about the surface of each tube.