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Types Of Heat Exchangers
The main function of heat exchangers is to transfer heat from one fluid or gas to another without mixing the two substances. The process carried out by the heat exchangers consists of pumping the hot engine water through a radiator while the air is blown through the radiator tins. The heat from the hot engine is transferred into the air which keeps the water at the right temperature and thus prevents the overheating of the engine. There are various types of such heat exchangers among which automotive radiators are one example, as well as boilers, furnaces, refrigerators, and air conditioning systems.
In respect to their construction or body, there are three main types of heat exchangers. First of all, there are the plate heat exchangers which are mainly used in low-viscous applications with moderate demands on pressures and operating temperatures. Sub-types include gasketed, brazed, welded and semi-weld or hybrid types. Air-cooled heat exchangers are the most common types. They have an integral electric motor and a fluid powered fan for cooling. Eventually, the third type of heat exchangers includes the shell and tube models, which are specific for significant high temperature demands. They are also used when fluids contain articles and there is a risk of blocking the plate ones that could have been used instead. The subtypes of tube and shell heat exchangers include the U-tube, straight, and spiral models. These are able to handle heavy fouling fluids or applications where temperatures cross conditions exist.
All in one, the heat exchanger is an important part of any engine system and it is very important to be aware of its functionality as well as the models that should be used in order to ensure the proper functioning of the whole system.