Features of Plate Heat Exchangers

High Performance

Structure that promotes turbulent flow

The heat transfer plates on a plate heat exchanger use Herringbone patterns and other corrugated patterns. Concave shape of the two plates create space for the fluid to flow. The combination of corrugated patterns create complex channel that create turbulence for the fluid.
Therefore, these following features make heat exchange more efficient.

(1) The temperature of the fluid flowing between the heat transfer plates becomes constant.
(2) In the fluid that is contact with the heat transfer plates, a non-flowing film that hinders heat exchange (called a boundary film) is formed. If the flow is disturbed, the film becomes thin, making it easy to convey heat.

Also, depending on the type of fluid that is flowing, scale (dirt) adheres to the surface of the heat transfer plates while the heat exchanger is used. This hinders heat exchange. The corrugated patterns that cause fluid flow turbulently brushing the surface acts as a self-cleaning function.

1.2 Times the Surface Area

The heat transfer plates on a plate heat exchanger use Herringbone patterns and other corrugated patterns.
Due to the corrugated patterns formed by pressing, the surface area of each heat transfer plate is about 1.2 times larger than that of a flat plate. So, there is a larger area for heat exchange by fluids. For example, if the fluid of the same flow rate flows to both a flat heat transfer plate and a heat transfer plate with a corrugated pattern, the heat transfer plate with the corrugated pattern has a smaller flow rate per surface area. Therefore, the fluid comes into contact with a greater range of the heat exchange area, increasing heat transfer. Also, due to the fact that this surface area is approximately 1.2 times larger, the equipment has a more compact footprint.

Parallel Flow and Counter flow

Plate heat exchangers can be used with either parallel flow or counter flow. In general, counter flow has a larger fluid temperature gradient than parallel flow, and therefore provides an advantage in heat exchange.

Structure that Suppresses Deformation

Since the heat transfer plates that use Herringbone patterns and other corrugated patterns are reversed top to bottom so that they overlap alternately, the convex side of one heat transfer plate and the recessed side of another heat transfer plate form a space, come into contact, and support each other in a cross shape. This is an excellent structure for reducing deformation of heat transfer plates caused by fluid pressure.

Prompt Operating Response

The small internal volume and high turbulence in the fluid allow quick adaptation to changes in operating conditions.
The time required from the start of operation until the required operating conditions are achieved can be greatly shortened, making it possible to respond quickly to changes in operating conditions.

Small Internal Volume

Since plate heat exchangers have high heat transfer efficiency, the heat transfer area and internal volume can be reduced.
For example, the production efficiency of food production can be improved, product loss can be reduced, and use less refrigerant such as CFCs.

Lightweight and Compact

Since plate heat exchangers have thin heat transfer plates and a small internal volume, they are lighter and more compact than shell & tube heat exchanger. Since they are lightweight, it is possible to reduce the cost of foundations, frames, and installation work. The compact size allows for a smaller footprint, as well as disassembly within the installation space.