Which Heat Exchanger is Right for Your Application?
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Heat exchangers are designed to transfer heat between two or more fluids. They are integral to a wide range of processing applications, including air conditioning, space heating, refrigeration, chemical processing, sewage treatment, and food and beverage. Although the objective is always the same, there are many types of heat exchangers. When looking for a suitable heat exchanger for your application, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.
4 Questions to Ask When Purchasing a Heat Exchanger
Does your application require stainless-steel construction? While stainless steel heat exchangers are always a high-quality option, they are especially appropriate for any application with strict hygiene requirements, such as the food and beverage industry.What is the nature of the material being processed? The less viscous the material being processed, the less complex the heat exchanger needs to be. Heat exchange becomes more complex if the material is more viscous (thicker) or contains particles or large solids. In those applications, more sophisticated machinery is required to ensure the desired level of performance.What type of design is most appropriate to your process? Simple multi-tube designs can easily process the least viscous materials, while double tube designs are appropriate when there is more viscosity – or if solids are present. An annular space or scraped surface heat exchanger may be necessary for high-viscosity products and complex, thick mixtures.Are leaks a concern? If the service fluid is not water, leaks can be catastrophic. Double tubeplates or multitube heat exchangers that provide leak detection may be the best option to avoid leaks that can cross-contaminate the service and product fluids.
Types of Stainless Steel Heat Exchangers
The principle behind all heat exchangers is that a hot fluid flowing over or around a cooler fluid will transfer its heat and energy in the direction of a cold flow.
Shell and Tube Heat Exchangers: Shell and tube heat exchangers are comprised of a series of tubes enclosed within a cylindrical pressure vessel or “shell.” One fluid travels through the tubes while another fluid of a different temperature flows over the tubes, causing a heat transfer. These devices are among the most efficient when it comes to exchanging heat. They are easily maintained, are compact, and offer excellent heat transfer. They are widely distributed in industry, as they are practical for condensers, turbine coolers, and evaporators. One of the main applications known for using this type of system is for cooling oil and hydraulic fluid in engines.
Double Tube (or double pipe) Heat Exchangers: Double tube exchangers are one of the most versatile products on the market. They are designed for more viscous products or products with large particulates in suspension. Although often less expensive to purchase and maintain than other heat exchangers, they may not offer adequate efficiency on larger scales – making them an excellent option for small-scale applications. Double-pipe heat exchangers are often used for petroleum refining, refrigeration, or sewage treatment.
Plate Heat Exchangers: Plate heat exchangers are comprised of multiple thin metal plates featuring large surface areas designed for heat transfer. Small fluid flow channels deliver fluids that spread over the plates, facilitating and accelerating heat exchange. Plate heat exchangers generally offer reduced volume, lower cost, and increased efficiency compared to other types of heat exchangers.
Call Zwirner Equipment Company to Get More Information
When you need a heat exchanger for your business, our experienced team of experts can help you to make the right choice. All pre-owned heat exchangers are professionally reconditioned to guarantee they operate at their full capacity. If you aren’t located nearby, don’t worry! Zwirner Equipment Company transports our quality products nationwide.
