Different Types of Heat Exchanger - A Short Guide Heat exchangers are at the top of the list of the most widely used industrial process equipment. This is because almost all factories require a temperature regulation and heat transfer fluids. Though exchangers can technically be used for both heating and cooling, they are mostly used for cooling in plants and refineries. They are categorized based on construction features and flow management. Let’s have a look at the types available on the market. Counterflow and parallel-flow In the most basic heat exchangers, cold and hot fluids move in either the same or in the opposite direction in a concentric configuration. These fluids move in and out at the opposite end in a counterflow configuration. They go in and out at the same end in a parallel-flow arrangement. Cross-flow In a cross-flow configuration, the hot and cold fluids flow in perpendicular directions. There are two main subtypes in this category: finned tubular and unfinned tubular. Hot and cold fluids are unmixed in a finned tubular type, and the fluid between the fins travels transversely to the direction of the tube flow. Meanwhile, fluids can mix and heat can be exchanged omnidirectionally in an unfinned configuration. Shell-and-tube A shell-and-tube exchanger is made up of a shell that contains many tubes. There are different designs possible. A U-tube is curved (like the shape of the letter U). Straight tubes with one or two passes are also possible. In single-pass types, the fluid enters one end and goes out the other end of the tube. In two-pass types, the fluid goes in and out on the same side. To direct the flow, baffles may be installed. Compact heat exchanger There are different kinds of compact heat exchangers, all characterized by transfer area per unit volumes exceeding 300 m2/m3. A plate-and-frame configuration is made up of corrugated plates stacked and bonded together. The fluid is split up over those multiple plates. In a plate-fin design, rectangular, triangular, perforated, or wavy fins are added between parallel plates. The fluids flow through them. This effectively increases the heat transfer area. Polymer tubes can be used in a compact heat exchanger to create a shell-and-tube configuration. The density of the heat transfer area is increased when the polymer tube diameter is reduced so that the shell can be made to accommodate more tubes. Note that while polymer is a light material that is resistant to corrosion, it is limited to certain pressures and temperatures. If you’re searching for a thermal transfer heat exchanger or heat transfer system then be sure to look for a manufacturer and supplier that has over 20 years of experience in providing solutions for businesses in your industry. Some of the best ones serve clients in a wide range of industries including asphalt, plastics, adhesives, paints, pharmaceuticals, automotive, aerospace, and petrochemical.
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