When selecting a heat exchanger, it is vital to consider all constraints thoroughly to ensure optimum performance and return on investment. Picking the heat exchanger model that is best suited to a particular application and operating conditions will maximise efficiency and minimise potential problems or failures. However, with so many different heat exchangers available, how do you determine which model is best suited?
Firstly, it is vital to aim for the best expected performance. Every application has unique requirements. In order to achieve optimum performance in a given application, various factors need to be weighed:
Pressure drop
Installation space
Footprint
Maintenance requirements
Installation costs
The most suitable type of equipment
The wrong heat exchanger choice or design solution can result in insufficient cooling or heating, or fouling, which can lead to heavy maintenance tasks, costing time, money, labour and productivity. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the process and requirements is vital when selecting the right equipment.
Some heat exchanger types have been widely used for many years, but new technologies are emerging that can improve performance, save space and reduce long-term costs. Understand the advantages of new technology over traditional heat exchangers and evaluate all available options, then make an informed decision.
Plate heat exchangers are a common device used in industry to enable heat transfer between two fluids. Depending on the requirements, plate heat exchangers can be classified into three types, each with unique benefits and application scenarios.
First, gasket plate heat exchanger (GPHE)
Gasket plate heat exchanger adopts corrugated metal plate to achieve heat transfer between fluids, applicable to cooling and heating for various purposes. Characterised by modular design, easy to disassemble, clean and maintain. However, it is not suitable for high temperature and high pressure applications.
