How To Size A Heat Exchanger

Video How to sizing heat exchangersHeat exchangers are used throughout industrial processes whenever heat needs to be transferred from one medium to another. Understanding heat exchanger sizing and selection benefits both productivity and profitability. The Carotek Heat Exchanger Selection Guide provides a model of the heat exchanger selection and sizing process.

Types of heat exchangers

In its most basic definition, an industrial heat exchanger transfers heat energy from one liquid to another without mixing them. Heat exchangers are generally classified into several main categories: Read: how to size heat exchangersShell and tube The heat exchanger consists of a shell that surrounds several tubes. Because they are so widely used, these general-purpose heat exchangers are generally well understood. The shell and tube design makes these heat exchangers resistant to a wide range of pressures and temperatures.Plates and frames The heat exchanger is a compact, efficient product designed with several stacked heat transfer plates sandwiched together in a frame. Read more: how to make a baby doll crib out of a boxCushion heat exchangers with titanium or other nickel alloys for precise fluid temperature control for heat recovery. These designs are commonly used for food or sanitary applications.Brazed Plate Heat exchangers are constructed without gaskets and they are suitable for a larger range of pressures and temperatures. Available in materials such as copper or nickel, these corrosion resistant heat exchangers are suitable for a wide range of applications. For any given application, there is usually more than one heat exchanger design that can be used. The starting point for sizing and selecting a heat transfer solution is to compare models that match the temperatures and pressures required for the process. The best type of heat exchanger depends on design parameters, fluid characteristics, space and budget.

Main criteria for sizing and selecting heat exchangers

The function the heat exchanger will perform (whether condensing, boiling, etc.)
Pressure limit (high/low), variable during process and pressure drop on exchanger
Approach temperature and temperature range (may vary during process)
Liquid flow capacity
Material requirements. Conditions such as sudden temperature changes or corrosive media may require special materials. For sealed plate heat exchangers, the gaskets shall be compatible with the liquid in the appliance.
Thermal fluid properties and product mixtures. If the heating or cooling fluid is prone to deposits, a corrosion resistant material may be required.
Location. Some exchangers may require cooling water, steam or hot oil, and they may be suitable options only when these facilities are available.
Footprint. Space and layout limitations can also affect the choice of which heat exchanger model is suitable. Remember that lower approaching temperatures usually correlate with larger units.
Maintenance required. Depending on the housekeeping process, it can be helpful to choose a suitable design for easy cleaning. Ease of repair or inspection may also be a factor.

In general, more than one type of heat exchanger will work for a given application, so additional criteria can help assess the best fit. Consider factors like future scalability, overall cost to purchase and operate, and efficiency/carbon footprint to narrow down options.

Importance of heat exchanger sizing

Once a heat exchanger design has been selected, the most efficient size depends on the operating conditions. For example, if the operating temperature varies with the seasons, both winter and summer cooling (or heating) loads must be calculated. The most efficient plate exchange model is the smallest model with the same plate corrugation capable of handling flows in both seasons. Read more: how to hunt mule deer with a bow, and the pressure drop are all within acceptable limits. Due to the number of dependent variables in the sizing and selection of the heat transfer solution, complex equations are often used to select the optimal solution. Heat exchangers can often be tailored, and specifications such as size and number of plates are often customized for the application. your specifications. The following datasheet can be used to provide requirements for your heat transfer solution.Heat exchanger sizing and selection requires a combination of knowledge of heat exchanger types and options as well as knowledge of the application and environment in which it operates. motion. Contact Carotek to review your needs and heat exchanger options. Or browse our selection of heat exchangers to find the best fit for your application.Read more: how to know the sea of glass is real