1 reply to this topic

[August]

The client requires a steam heater(a plate HX) for non continuous use. When production needs, the steam is on and the process fluid is on. When it is not needed, the steam and process fluid are turned off. 

 

I don't have much experience on this kind of on/off process. I am really doubting, if a steam heated plate heat exchanger can be used in this way. If yes, are there any special design requirements? And how long it takes to heat up process fluid to the target temperature (or how to calculate how long it takes)

 

Thanks. 

[RickeyD09]

There shouldn't be an issue with this application. It appears that this is being used in some type of batch process. My recommendation would be to make sure and design a way to "clean out" the heat exchanger after each use if it is going to sit for any length of time. (Purge steam side back to a boiler return, and the process fluid to the holding vessel. With compressed air or Nitrogen depending on your process.) Not sure what type of material you're dealing with but always design the heat exchanger to be compatible with process fluids.

 

Normal heat transfer calculations would apply here assuming you don't have to wait for a boiler to heat up or anything of that nature. Once the steam moves through the exchanger and reaches pressure you desire. It all depends on flow rates of steam and process fluid.

 

Hope that helps.