What is a Heat Exchanger?
Author: Martin Applebaum
A heat exchanger is a device that is used to transfer heat from one fluid to another fluid and at the same time preventing the two fluids from coming in contact with one another. There are three main types of heat exchanger. They are as follows
air-cooled
shell and tube
plate heat exchangers
Dividing the two fluids is usually a metal wall, which acts as a conductor. On one side of the wall is a hot solution, which, while flowing transfers its heat to the cooler solution that is flowing on the other side of the wall. If the surface area of the heat exchanger is larger then it will create a faster heat transfer. Thermal energy will only flow from a hotter area to a cooler area in order to reach a point of equilibrium. A heat exchanger can be known by other names as well. For example, in a car, the radiator that acts as an exchanger. The radiator cools the hot fluid by using the airflow over the surface of the radiator.Other examples of some uses for these devices are swimming pool heating, air conditioners, refrigerators and hot water radiators.
Whether a heat exchanger is used in an industrial or a commercial setting, they are considered very important energy saving devices.
A heat exchanger is usually constructed of cast iron, aluminum, and steel, titanium, bronze or copper. Manufacturers find that one of the biggest problems with these devices is corrosion. This is due to the constant flowing of liquid in these devices.
Manufacturers are always looking for ways to prevent this from happening. The manufacturers are using tubing that is resistant to basic corrosion.
They have been creating heat exchangers that feature fins to provide better thermal conductivity. They have found that this has been helping prevent some corrosion. You will find a heat exchanger in many different types of industry. This would include pulp and paper, pharmaceutical, steel industries, marine, automotive and water treatment plants.
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By M. Applebaum